In the last couple of years there has been a significant increase in Ireland amongst Indian students, both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. In fact, in the last few months alone there has been a jump of 25 per cent in the number of Indian students choosing Ireland as their study abroad destination. So, why Ireland? This is an English speaking country with a long tradition in education. International students will find a multicultural society with the highest of education standards and the warmest of welcomes.

In a recent independent study, Ireland was ranked first in the European Union for “international student satisfaction”, for the second year running. The survey found that Irish higher education institutions were appreciated for their community atmospheres, innovative programmes and support structures for students, as well as their multicultural mix and student life. The country with its euro currency offers good value for money compared with its neighbour, the UK. Since the 2016 Brexit vote, Ireland’s universities and colleges have reported a significant increase in applications from Indian students particularly at postgraduate level.

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Ireland’s EU membership has been keen to developing its reputation for world class research and as a centre of excellence in higher education. All of these universities are ranked in the top five per cent globally and in many fields of research rank in the top one per cent. A key advantage of studying in Ireland is that students at postgraduate level can avail of a two-year “stayback” option after completing their course. Earlier this year, the Irish government announced an extension to its Third Level Graduate Scheme, for non-EU/EEA students at post graduate level. At a time when other countries are tightening their visa rules for international students and graduates, Ireland has taken the opposite approach.

Non-EU students in Ireland, after completing their studies can remain in the country for a further two year to seek suitable employment. As such, the place can be ideal for high performing students to kick start their careers.

Over 1,000 multinational corporations have situated their European headquarters in Ireland. Of course after Brexit, this country will be the only majority English speaking country in the European Union.

The Irish authorities are currently dealing with hundreds of enquiries from companies, particularly in the financial services sector, considering relocating from the UK to Ireland, after Brexit, in order to maintain access to the European market. This coming November 18 of Ireland’s top universities and colleges will participate in a recruitment road show across India. The road show, organised by the Irish government, is a series of “Education in Ireland” fairs in New Delhi, Pune, Mumbai, Chennai and Bangalore.

Academic staff, admissions officers and visa officers will meet with students and parents to discuss study options in Ireland both at undergraduate and postgraduate level.

The institutes under Education in Ireland offer multiple courses in neurology, business, medicine, art, engineering and many more along with scholarship schemes.

Institutions like Dublin Business School, Dublin City University, Maynooth University, National University of Ireland Galway, University College Dublin, University of Limerick, Trinity College Dublin and Trinity Business School are few names under this.

(The writer is senior education advisor, Education in Ireland)