Where should I choose to study – the United Kingdom or Ireland?

Trying to choose between the UK and Ireland for your study destination can be a tough decision - both countries boast outstanding educational systems and world-renowned educational institutions. It can be difficult to compare the two as they both have so much to offer students and the decision often comes down to personal preferences or lifestyle. But don't worry, in this blog, we'll dive into the details and help you make the best choice for your academic journey.

What is the difference between the EU, Visas, and the Schengen area?

As you may be aware, the UK left the EU in 2020, and Brexit generated a lot of media coverage. However, if you plan to travel around Europe, you might wonder what the difference in your visa privileges are given that Ireland is still a member of the EU. In other words, there is no distinction.

Even though Ireland is a member of the European Union, you cannot travel freely inside the EU because it is not a part of the Schengen Area. To go to any other EU nation, such as Germany, France, or Spain, you would still require a separate visa application.

The UK is in the same situation. Whether the nation you wish to visit is in the EU or not, you will need to apply for a second visa before you may leave the country.

Irish and UK student visas both permit full-time overseas students to work up to 20 hours per week throughout the academic year. You are permitted to put in up to 40 hours per week over the summer or Christmas holidays.

Tuition fees

It's a close call when it comes to tuition costs. Tuition fees in both Ireland and UK cost almost the same. However, that cost is typically less than the cost of tuition in the US or Australia.

It's a close call when it comes to tuition costs. Tuition fees in both Ireland and UK cost almost the same. However, that cost is typically less than the cost of tuition in the US or Australia.

To give you an idea, tuition costs in Ireland range from 9,850 to 55,000 Euros annually, whereas costs in the UK typically range from £9,250 to 26,000 Euros annually. The tuition fees for medical programmes in the UK can be much higher and can reach £58,600 per year.

Cost of living

The best option to look for this kind of information is online. Expatistan is one of the best websites for comparing cost of living in various places across the world.

Expatistan is based on thousands of prices entered by thousands of users for various products. Therefore, Dublin appears to be less expensive than London if you're wanting to study in one of the capital cities. However, this may change, so it's advisable to acquire an up-to-date comparison on Expatistan.

According to some internet sources, the cost of living in the two major cities—roughly £12,000 in the UK and 8,000–12,000 euros in Ireland—is quite similar.

Best universities in the world

It won't be easy if you base your choice exclusively on the calibre of universities. Some of the world's top universities are located in both the UK and Ireland.

British universities perform better on the QS World University Rankings website. In the top 10, the UK is home to four universities.

The top two Irish universities, however, are Trinity College Dublin (home to one of the most renowned libraries in the world) and University College Dublin, which are placed 98th and 181st, respectively, in the QS World University Rankings 2023.

There are a lot more alternatives for universities in each of the countries. There are just 8 universities in Ireland compared to 130 in the UK. If you want to first research Irish universities, this makes comparison simpler.

However, that number can be misleading, but it makes sense when you consider that Ireland only has 4.9 million residents compared to the UK's 66.65 million. Keep in mind that the UK is made up of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Student accommodation

The most expensive accommodation is associated with the best institutions. This means that if you decide to attend Trinity College Dublin or University College Dublin for your studies, you will require 8000 euros and 11.000 euros, respectively, for accommodation each year.

Similar to the UK, private accommodation in Ireland appears to be generally less expensive than accommodation provided by universities. According to Education in Ireland's suggestions, you will require about 427€ per month for rent and another 28€ for utilities.

Similar circumstances exist in the UK, however rent in that country includes all utilities and bills. According to the 2019 National Student Money Survey, you will require about £439 per month to cover rent and other expenses.

The Times Higher Education reports that if you decide to live in university housing in the UK, your monthly rent will go to £535, or £640 if you're studying in London.

Conclusion

Hope this blog helped you to make your decision. No matter which destination you choose, it will be your best decision. Get in touch with our experts at MWT Education Consultancy for further clarifications and help.