Studying in Ireland: What You Need To Know

When one thinks of Ireland, one imagines St. Patrick, the shamrock symbol, idyllic landscapes, castles, Oscar Wilde, and Nobel Prize winner, George Bernard Shaw. But Ireland has not always been the iconic country it is today.

In the past, Ireland had been one of the poorest countries in Europe. However, its reputation in the past century has since changed into one of the wealthiest nations in the world, with one of the best education systems. No wonder it is also becoming a study destination hotspot for many international students worldwide, and studying in Ireland now is one of the best choices you can make.  

According to the European Migration Network, the number of students flocking to the country throughout the years has been increasing. In fact, it increased 45% between 2013 and 2017. 

Irish institutions are also one of the best in the world. For example, its oldest university, Trinity College Dublin, which is often compared to Oxford University and the University of Cambridge, along with other institutions, consistently ranks in various university global rankings.

If you are thinking of studying in Ireland, here are some useful facts to know about the “Emerald Isle”. 

It Has One of the Highest Quality of Life in the World

International students are sure to experience a high quality of life while in Ireland. 

Ireland has ranked second, after Norway, as the country with the highest quality of life in the world, according to the latest UN Human Development Index. Aside from its economy, one of the biggest drivers of this high ranking is Ireland’s education, which has experienced fast improvements since 1990, said the report’s author, Pedro Conceição. In fact, Ireland’s literacy rate among its population is 100% for both male and female citizens. 

Institutions Have a Strong Value of Independent Learning

Some students who are used to getting a “spoon-feeding” type of education in their home countries may find it surprising how Irish institutions encourage independent learning for their students. Students are usually given long lists of reading materials and academic assignments they should accomplish, and are encouraged to join discussion groups to debate ideas and thoughts raised during lectures. 

It Rains a Lot in Ireland 

Irish weather is quite mild because of the country’s high latitude. However, it rains a lot, especially in the western part of the country, where it rains about 225 days a year. In the east and southeast part, it rains at least 150 days a year. Students planning to study in Ireland are advised to bring at least a raincoat and boots during its rainy days. 

Getting Drunk in Public is an Offence

For a country known for its fun-loving and drinking populace, and as the birthplace of the famous beer Guinness, some may find it surprising that getting drunk in public is actually against the law. According to Irish law, a drunk person is someone who is so intoxicated that they may actually pose a danger to themselves, and to those people around them. In addition, supplying a drunk person with more alcohol is also an offense, and people in this condition should either leave the premises or could get arrested by Garda, Ireland’s law enforcers. 

Studying in Ireland offers students a lot of unique experiences and opportunities they usually can’t get in other countries. 

Want to learn more about Ireland, its culture, and tips about living there? Browse through MSM Unify’s articles on Ireland to know more.