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Why Study Abroad in Ireland?

Why Study Abroad in Ireland?

Jasmine Harding
Last Updated May 13, 2025

Why study abroad in Ireland? Well, because it’s an absolutely delightful experience! Ireland is the picture-perfect setting for your study abroad adventure. From the moment you land, you will be greeted with cheerful warmth in this charming country. Studying abroad in Ireland means immersing yourself in history, visiting national museums and ancient castles, admiring natural wonders, and taking in the emerald beauty of it all. 

Castle on the hill, Ireland

Why study abroad in Ireland? Because your backyard might look like this!

Ireland offers students an excellent education set amongst an idyllic backdrop. Exciting student and academic life can be found in every city; you’ll be sure to meet other students who are looking to grab a couple of pints at the local pub and take advantage of the Irish hospitality. Still wondering why study abroad in Ireland is the absolute best? If you need just a little more convincing, here are 9 reasons to study abroad in Ireland!

9 reasons to study abroad in Ireland

1. A reputable education system

Ireland has many top-notch schools, and you will find programs in every degree and field across the country. You really can’t go wrong in Ireland! With the country’s romantic backdrop, English and literature are two top areas of study in Ireland. You’ll find some pretty awesome arts and art history programs as well, that will make you feel like you’re living in the pages of your textbooks!

READ MORE: 10 of the Best Study Abroad Programs in Ireland]

For those who are less arts-minded, science and business programs also abound aplenty. Ireland is a popular study abroad location, so you will have the chance to meet and network with students and professors from around the world. Regardless of your field of study, you’ll find an excellent education in Ireland!

2. Stunning natural beauty

Green Rolling Hills

From morning walks to afternoon bike rides, studying abroad in Ireland is the perfect choice for those who love the outdoors.

Why study abroad in Ireland? Upon your welcome to the Emerald Isle, you’ll know why. Ireland earned this nickname because of its lush, green landscapes. Rolling emerald hills and steep cliffs are some of the images that come to mind when we think of Ireland. Ancient castles and historic buildings (and many sheep!) dot the landscape, adding a touch of whimsy to this beautiful country.

Ireland has a whole lot jam-packed into a relatively small space. From the famous Cliffs of Moher to the unique landscape of Giant’s Causeway—and all the beauty in between—Ireland is a visually stunning experience. One study abroad in Ireland tip is to make sure you set the time and energy aside to explore the nature that Ireland has to offer. It’s so worth getting out of the major cities and into nature here.

READ MORE: Where to Visit Ireland Off the Beaten Path

3. It’s a hop and a skip away

One of the best parts of studying abroad in Europe is that pretty much every country can be the gateway to your next European backpacking adventure. With so many top travel destinations nearby, Ireland is the perfect jumping off point if you want to explore further afield in your spare time—that is, if you end up running out of things to explore within the country (we doubt that will happen!).

Travel within Ireland is also exciting, and you can reach many landmarks within a few hours’ drive or a quick flight from major cities. One of our top study abroad in Ireland tips is to take some time off to take a road trip around the country. As one of the best activities to do in Ireland, you will be rewarded with some of the most dreamy views in the world!

4. Work opportunities

Ireland has a quickly-growing economy, and that means quickly growing work opportunities! Most student visas allow students studying abroad in Ireland to work a certain amount of hours while studying. This means you can offset some of your study abroad costs while you are studying abroad! Two birds with one stone, anyone?

Dublin, Ireland

Not to mention working while studying abroad in Ireland would add a spark to your resume!

The fact that Ireland is an English-speaking country is very helpful in the search for a part time job. Student jobs are available in many cities, so you can earn some extra cash on the side for your travels. If you wish to continue working in Ireland, the country also has working holiday arrangements with many countries.

5. Ireland is a safe and peaceful country

Ireland is considered a safe country and has a low violent crime rate. As a student on one of your first solo adventures into the world, this is a comforting thought! Plus, as a relatively new traveler, safety will be a huge priority (although, it should always be!). And Ireland has you covered. If you happen to run into any unsavory situations, the most likely scenario is petty theft or pickpocketing. Just make sure you pay attention to your surroundings and remain vigilant (especially at night), and you will be a-okay in Ireland!

6. Relatively easy adjustment period

Studying abroad in an English-speaking country means that there is no language barrier to navigate. This makes settling in much easier! You have all the perks of living abroad and experiencing a different culture, but you are already equipped with a tool to navigate it all: language.

Of course, regardless of how easy or difficult it is to adjust, feelings of homesickness can rear their ugly heads. It’s all part of the ups and downs of adjusting to living in a new country! Luckily, with a common language, you can hopefully find someone to talk to who knows the feeling. Remember: It will pass!

7. Learn some fun Irish slang

Grafton Street, Dublin, Ireland

There’s no better way to fit in with the locals than to learn some Irish slang.

Yes, it’s English. No, you might not understand it. And that’s part of the fun! Studying abroad in Ireland means you will learn some Irish slang. To get you started, you should probably learn the word craic (pronounced “crack”). Before your mind wanders too far, craic is pretty much slang for fun, entertainment, or lively conversation; it’s another word for just generally having a good time! It can also be used as a greeting. If someone asks you “what’s the craic?”, it’s just a way of asking “how are you?” or “what’s happening?”, or asking what fun stuff is going on in your life! 

8. Awesome study abroad in Ireland programs

One of the perks of studying abroad in a popular destination is that there are plenty of programs to choose from, and this is why study abroad in Ireland is a fantastic choice! You can pretty much study any subject, during any time of the year, and for any duration. Programs exist for durations from a few weeks (usually in the summer), a semester, or up to a full year (and more!).

These programs can help you with the necessities, such as visas and housing, to make your study abroad Ireland transition seamless. Studying abroad through a program is also a great way to make new friends (you’re all in this together!).

9. Many scholarships and bursaries are available

What comes along with tons of study abroad programs? More opportunities for scholarships, grants, and bursaries! Many programs have stepped up to meet demand from students reluctant to dive deep into debt for a study abroad experience. Ireland is a bit of a pricey country to study in, which means many students look for some form of financial aid. Many study abroad in Ireland programs offer the chance to apply for aid to ease the financial burden of studying abroad.

Take the next step! Get Matched with 5 Ireland Study Abroad Programs for FREE

You’re ready to study abroad in Ireland!

Recess, Ireland

Prepare for a beautiful semester filled with historic castles, new friends, and the green hills of Ireland.

With these study abroad in Ireland tips, you will be all set for your next adventure! Irish people are famous for being welcoming, hospitable, and generally blessed with a lively sense of humor. You are here to study, but there’s nothing wrong with some fun and games along the way! One of our favorite study abroad in Ireland tips is to make sure you always leave some time aside in the day to grab a pint and a comforting bowl of Irish stew at the local pub.

So, why study abroad in Ireland? Because studying abroad in Ireland will open your eyes to a world of opportunities—opportunities to attend top schools, to travel to nearby countries, and to experience all the history and beauty that this charming little country has to offer. Ireland will capture your heart with its beautiful scenery and romantic, down-to-earth vibes. There’s no better time than now to study abroad in Ireland! 

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