The pros and cons when choosing Ireland as a study destination

When choosing where to go to get your bachelor’s degree, taking a few aspects of the country into account can take you a long way. As the universities in Ireland keep adding on new sectors and hiring better staff, students from around the world are starting to notice the country as a great place to get an education and even to start their careers in some cases.

The positives

• English Speaking- Within the EU, Ireland prides itself as being the only English speaking country which helps attracts students from around the world. Countries like Germany and France do offer English medium universities but they are not as good as the ones where the native language is used. Because of this, students who are not fluent in a European language tend to pick Ireland.
• Location- Ireland is one of the countries that is in Europe so that you can discover a whole new continent but is also close to the United States and Canada at the same time. Spain, Rome and France are all only a few hours away.

•  Amazing people- Irish people are known to be one of the friendliest nationalities with students from different countries feeling at home within weeks. The crime rate in Ireland is very low as well since it has strict laws that are enforced at all times. It has practically no violent crime and is much safer than some of its European neighbors.
• Dual-citizenship- It is much easier to settle down in Ireland than other countries and they also offer residents the ability to keep their original citizenship while also becoming Irish citizens when the time comes.
• Connected- Ireland has some of the best infrastructure as well as multinational companies having an office in Ireland. Transportation is everywhere and it is easy to move from one place to another. Keeping the Irish charm alive, Ireland has also become one of the most developed countries in the world with tons of businesses finding themselves at home.

The Negatives

• The Weather- If you are not a fan of the rain, Ireland will definitely take some getting used to. The pub culture in Ireland is definitely quite enjoyable but the Irish were also trying to escape a rainy day as they made their way down to the pub. There is no real season for the rain and it makes an appearance at any time. There is not much snow with the sun and rain taking turns on most days.

• Costs- The costs for students who are paying the International fee can be pretty high with a lack of loans and scholarships. Students within the EU are allowed to pay the home fee rate but students who are not struggle with the finances. Cost of living can also be quite high depending on which part of Ireland you are living in.
• Fuel prices- The transport if cheap and accessible for a reason in Ireland with fuel prices skyrocketing over the years. Taxes add on to the cost of fuel and it is one of the most expensive countries to own a car in.