The allure of Ireland as a study destination for Indian students has been steadily increasing, with the number of students from India growing exponentially over the past decade. In 2013, there were approximately 700 Indian students in Irish universities, but by 2023, this number had surged to over 7,000[^1]. This remarkable tenfold increase is projected to continue, with expectations that the figure will soon reach 10,000[^1].
Several factors contribute to Ireland’s popularity among Indian students. Ambassador Kevin Kelly has highlighted the quality of education, job prospects, and life in Ireland as key attractions[^1]. The country’s educational institutions are not only recognized for their academic excellence but also for their high graduate employability rates, which range from 80% to 95%. Some universities, such as Dublin City University, boast employability rates of up to 97%[^1]. This is significant considering Ireland’s position as having the fourth highest international workforce within the European Union[^1].
Ireland’s welcoming culture and English-speaking environment are additional draws for international students[^1]. Moreover, the presence of multinational corporations (MNCs) in Ireland, due to its competitive corporate tax rate and skilled workforce, provides ample employment opportunities post-graduation[^1]. Post-Brexit, Ireland stands out as the only English-speaking country in the EU, further enhancing its appeal to global companies and students alike[^1].
Another pivotal factor in attracting Indian students is the two-year stay-back visa policy offered by the Irish government[^1]. This policy allows graduates from Irish higher education institutions to remain in the country for up to 24 months to seek employment, which is a significant incentive for those looking to gain international work experience[^1].
Education in Ireland, the agency responsible for promoting the country as an education destination, notes that Irish universities offer more than 5,000 programs across various fields of study[^1]. With students from over 160 countries, the academic environment in Ireland is richly diverse, providing valuable cultural exposure[^1].
Despite the recent cap on international student permit applications by Canada, Ireland continues to focus on its strengths rather than positioning itself as an alternative to other countries[^1]. The steady growth in the number of Indian students choosing Ireland reflects the country’s growing reputation as a hub for quality education and professional development[^1].
In conclusion, the combination of a high-quality education system, favorable visa policies, robust job market, and the presence of MNCs makes Ireland an increasingly attractive destination for Indian students seeking to study abroad[^1].
Suggested Reading:
[https://www.financialexpress.com/life/travel-tourism-the-emerald-isle-why-ireland-is-attracting-so-many-indian-students-3412522/](https://www.financialexpress.com/life/travel-tourism-the-emerald-isle-why-ireland-is-attracting-so-many-indian-students-3412522/)
