European Universities You Can Still Apply to for 2025.
Top 12 Cheapest Universities in Ireland for International Students 2025
Ireland is an attractive destination for international students due to its high-quality education system, welcoming environment, and the presence of top global companies. However, one common concern for students is the cost of tuition. While Ireland offers some of the best educational opportunities in Europe, there are also several affordable universities in Ireland that offer excellent programs at relatively low tuition fees.
In this blog, we’ll explore the cheapest universities in Ireland for international students in 2025, helping you find an affordable study destination without compromising the quality of education.
Why Study in Ireland?
Before diving into the list, it’s important to understand why Ireland is a prime destination for higher education. Ireland boasts a strong reputation for academic excellence, especially in fields such as computer science, engineering, medicine, and business. Ireland’s robust educational system is internationally recognized, and universities maintain strong links with industry, particularly in technology and research.
Additionally, the post-study work visa options and vibrant cultural scene make Ireland a great place to study and build a career after graduation.
Interested in studying in Ireland? Get in touch with our team for personalized guidance and help with university applications!
Top 12 Cheapest Universities in Ireland for International Students (2025)
1. Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin)
- Tuition Fees: €11,000–€15,000 per year
- Programs: Offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, particularly in business, engineering, and technology.
- Why Choose TU Dublin: Known for its practical approach to education, TU Dublin is one of the most affordable universities in Ireland, with several scholarships available for international students.
Ready to apply to TU Dublin? Start your application today!
2. University of Limerick (UL)
- Tuition Fees: €12,000–€18,000 per year
- Programs: Offers diverse programs in arts, business, engineering, science, and health sciences.
- Why Choose UL: The University of Limerick is known for its emphasis on research and industry collaboration, particularly in the engineering and science sectors.
3. National College of Ireland (NCI)
- Tuition Fees: €11,000–€14,000 per year
- Programs: Known for its business, computing, and data analytics programs.
- Why Choose NCI: NCI is one of the most cost-effective options for international students, especially in the heart of Dublin, with close proximity to major employers in the tech industry.
4. Maynooth University
- Tuition Fees: €13,000–€17,000 per year
- Programs: Offers a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including arts, business, science, and engineering.
- Why Choose Maynooth: This is one of the more affordable public universities in Ireland, with a strong academic reputation and a growing number of international students.
Explore Maynooth University and check out admission requirements here.
5. Dublin Business School (DBS)
- Tuition Fees: €10,500–€15,000 per year
- Programs: Primarily focused on business, marketing, and IT programs.
- Why Choose DBS: An excellent option for students seeking affordable postgraduate degrees in business and IT fields, especially for those looking to study in central Dublin.
6. University of Galway
- Tuition Fees: €12,000–€17,000 per year
- Programs: Offers courses in a range of fields including business, science, engineering, and arts.
- Why Choose University of Galway: Known for its research focus, particularly in biotechnology and digital innovation, this university offers affordable tuition for international students.
7. University College Cork (UCC)
- Tuition Fees: €14,000–€18,000 per year
- Programs: Offers a diverse array of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, particularly in medicine, business, and science.
- Why Choose UCC: Located in a vibrant city, UCC has a strong reputation for its research output and is one of the top affordable universities in Ireland.
8. Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT)
- Tuition Fees: €11,000–€14,000 per year
- Programs: Known for its engineering, business, and technology programs.
- Why Choose LIT: A highly affordable option for students seeking a practical education in various technical and creative fields.
Ready to apply? Contact us today!
9. Cork Institute of Technology (CIT)
- Tuition Fees: €12,000–€15,000 per year
- Programs: Offers engineering, arts, media, and business programs.
- Why Choose CIT: Known for its emphasis on industry partnerships and internships, CIT is an affordable option for students seeking a hands-on education.
10. Technological University of the Shannon (TUS)
- Tuition Fees: €11,500–€15,500 per year
- Programs: Offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in business, science, and technology.
- Why Choose TUS: Located in the mid-west of Ireland, TUS offers practical, industry-relevant programs at a relatively low cost, making it an ideal choice for international students.
11. Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT)
- Tuition Fees: €10,500–€14,000 per year
- Programs: Known for its engineering, business, and information technology programs.
- Why Choose WIT: One of the most affordable universities in Ireland, WIT is popular for students looking to study in the IT and business sectors at a low cost.
12. Institute of Technology Carlow (IT Carlow)
- Tuition Fees: €10,000–€14,000 per year
- Programs: Offers degrees in business, engineering, and computing.
- Why Choose IT Carlow: A cost-effective option with a strong emphasis on practical experience and internship opportunities, IT Carlow is perfect for students who want to develop real-world skills.
How to Apply to the Cheapest Universities in Ireland?
Applying to universities in Ireland is straightforward, but requirements vary by institution. Here are the general steps:
- Choose Your Program: Identify which programs align with your academic and career goals.
- Check the Admission Requirements: Ensure you meet the entry requirements, such as a relevant undergraduate degree and language proficiency (usually IELTS 6.0 or above).
- Submit Your Application: Applications can usually be submitted directly through the university’s website or via the Central Applications Office (CAO).
- Provide Supporting Documents: This may include your academic transcripts, passport copy, proof of English language proficiency, and letters of recommendation.
- Wait for Your Offer: If accepted, you’ll receive an offer letter. Once you accept it, you can apply for a student visa to study in Ireland.
Need help with your application? Contact us for step-by-step assistance.
Conclusion
Studying in Ireland doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. While some universities may have higher tuition fees, there are many affordable universities in Ireland that provide high-quality education at a fraction of the cost. Whether you’re interested in engineering, business, data science, or other fields, Ireland’s cheapest universities offer diverse programs and valuable opportunities for international students.
Start your application process early to secure your place at one of these low-cost universities in Ireland and make your educational dreams come true without breaking the bank.
Want to know more? Get personalized advice and start your study journey today.
Get A Free Consulting Today
Get your answers related to abroad study.
23+ European Visa Experts Online Now!
Chat Now