How to Save Money While Pursuing Your Studies in Ireland as an International Student?

You can study in Ireland without burning a hole in your pocket, but only if you plan carefully. You can mix excellence with affordability in Ireland. Getting a masters or graduate degree in this country is cheaper than in the US. Once the Irish government approves your stay, you can spend your semester in Ireland and take advantage of its affordability.

In this article, we will discuss six professional tips that can help you save money while studying in Ireland.

Research and apply for scholarships

The university you are considering attending must offer at least one scholarship for international students. However, there may be many other scholarships available outside the university that can supplement your budget while you are in Ireland.

Look outside Dublin

Dublin is the capital of the country, so studying here can be a little more expensive. You could look for universities outside Dublin that offer a much better or similar experience to those in Dublin. The money you save can be spent on excursions and weekend trips.

If you want to experience Irish culture in a small city, Galway is the place for you. If you prefer a more alternative setting, Cork City is perfect. In this way, you will have countless alternatives for studying abroad in Ireland that may include a much less intimidating budget.

Be selective about food and rent

After airfares, food and rent will be your biggest expenses. Try to keep your rent within a budget of 300-700 euros per month. Try to find accommodation that will give you a discount if you pay the whole semester's rent in advance. Also try to budget for food on a daily basis. It will be even better if you start cooking with your flatmates.

Save on groceries and shopping

To cook at home, you need to stock up on food and fresh produce (vegetables, fruit, dairy products). When buying groceries you can save money in various ways. Plan your weekly shopping by making a list of the items you need. Collect discount coupons and vouchers (you can find vouchers online or in newspapers) and use your student ID at the checkout. Farmers' markets and local shops are good places to buy fruit and vegetables. Avoid indiscriminately buying unnecessary items in supermarkets. You can set a shopping budget at the beginning of the month, and this will help you cover the essentials and splurge on the occasional treat.

Some popular supermarkets in Ireland that offer good deals include:

• Aldi
• SuperValu
• Dunnes Stores
• Tesco
• Lidl

Book a flight with your student card

Airfare is one of the most significant costs of studying abroad. Airlines offer special discounts for students over the age of 26. Some airlines also offer discounts to the student's family and friends. Most offer a discount on a return or direct flight to Ireland for the study programme.

Save on study materials

Study materials are an essential cost whether you are studying for a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Ireland. The good news is that you can save money by buying second-hand books that have been passed on by your seniors or friends at university. Used books are available at much lower prices or sometimes free of charge. Keep an eye out for them and buy them when they are available. University libraries stock academic material that you can borrow, print out and return. This is cheaper than buying new books. You can save at least up to 50% of your book costs by borrowing or buying used books.

Finding short-term paid work

Studying with full concentration should be your main focus at the moment; if you are really on a tight budget, you can opt for a part-time paid job in Ireland. Look for work in a restaurant, local cafe, supermarket or shop. You could also look into tutoring or paid internships. On a student visa, you can legally work up to 20 hours a week if you are enrolled in a university programme for at least one year.

Invest in insurance

Wait, isn't spending on insurance the opposite of saving money while studying abroad in Ireland? Well, yes. But the covid pandemic has changed things and so, investing your money in travel or health insurance will certainly be fruitful to save your money if you fall ill abroad. If you have insurance coverage, it will help you get proper medical care or arrange an emergency flight to bring you home in this scenario.

Final thoughts

We have covered all the ways in which you can save money while studying abroad in Ireland. Now it is up to you to apply these tips and start saving every penny. In order to enrol at an Irish university, you will need to take the IELTS exam. After securing a high score, you can study at your favourite university in Ireland. So, hurry now and visit our education advisors at MWT Education Consultancy to know all the procedures in detail!