Study Bsc Nursing in Ireland With Affordable & Globally

Recognized Universities!

Akram Sir

Get Started on Your Journey to Study Abroad

Apply now for 2025 intake

Phone

BSc Nursing in Ireland

Ireland is on par with the ‘Big Four’ study abroad destinations, and it’s quickly becoming a top choice for healthcare aspirants, especially nursing students. A safe, English-speaking country with a vibrant Indian student community.

The reasons are hard to ignore:

  • World-class universities offering high-quality education in health sciences.
  • Two-year stay-back visa for international graduates, allowing you to gain work experience after your studies.
  • 80–95% graduate employability rate, with global MNCs actively hiring.

Ireland is where education meets opportunity and where your BSc in Nursing can become the first step toward a global healthcare career.

Curious about how to get started?

Let’s dive into the top universities, admission steps, tuition fees, scholarships, and your future career options in Ireland.

study nursing in Ireland

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • Why Choose Ireland?
  • BSc Nursing: Highlights
  • Best BSc Nursing Universities in Ireland
  • Entry Requirements (for International Students)
  • Step-By-Step Admission Process
  • BSc Nursing in Canada - Tuition Fees & Living Costs
  • Career Opportunities - Salary After BSc Nursing in Ireland
  • Other Important Factors for Students
  • Quick Summary
  • Cultural & Lifestyle Differences for Nursing Students in Ireland
  • Comparison Table of Ireland vs Other Countries
  • Visa Process for International Students
  • Why Choose Educafic?
  • Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose Ireland?

The best thing about pursuing your bachelor's in Nursing from Ireland is that it offers Unique Specialization Options in the Bachelor’s Degree itself. Whether you’re into General Nursing, Mental Health, working with kids, or supporting people with disabilities, you can actually choose your focus from day one.

And after graduation?

You get up to two years on a post-study work visa (Stamp 1G) to live and work in Ireland. This gives you good time to find employment, register with the NMBI, and even start your pathway toward Permanent Residency.

World-Class Universities with Global Recognition:

Top Irish institutions like Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and University of Galway are ranked globally for Nursing (TCD is #20 worldwide in QS 2025). You’ll graduate with a degree that’s respected across the UK, EU, Canada, and beyond.

High Demand for Nurses:

Ireland’s seriously short on nurses, which is great news if you’re graduating with a BSc in Nursing. Ireland has a graduate employability rate of 80–97% in the healthcare sector. Most international students land jobs quickly, especially in hospitals, elderly care, or even public health roles.

Easy Adjustment for International Students:

Ireland is the only English-speaking country left in the EU after Brexit, which makes adjusting way easier. And hey, with over 7,000 Indian students already here, you’ll feel right at home.

BSc Nursing: Highlights

Course Programme Bachelor of Science in Nursing (General, Psychiatric, Intellectual Disability, or Children's & General Integrated)
Duration 4 years full-time
Medium of Instruction English
Eligibility Criteria 10+2 (with biology & chemistry), Academic Score - 60%-70%
Average Tuition Fees €10,000 - €18,000 (₹1,003,300 - ₹1,805,940)
Average Cost of Living €7,000 - €12,000 (₹702,310 - ₹1,203,960)
Top Universities Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin (UCD), University of Limerick, University College Cork (UCC), Dublin City University
Intakes September
Clinical Placements Include throughout the 4 years (approx. 36 weeks in total)
Language Requirement IELTS score 6.5 or above (TOEFL equivalent)
Police and Medical clearance At the time of clinical placement approval
HPAT or Interview Not required for international students (only for EU/Irish students)

Best BSc Nursing Universities in Ireland

Here are some of the best BSc Nursing universities in Ireland where you can apply:

Trinity College Dublin (TCD)

  • QS Nursing Subject Ranking: #1 in Ireland, #5 in Europe, #26 globally (2024)
  • University QS Overall (2025): #87 globally
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Tuition (Non‑EU UG): €24,330/year
  • Acceptance Rate: 33%
  • Clinical Placements & Employability: Integrated internships; strong reputation with “placement available” and high employability
  • Scholarships: AQ Scholarships; Global Excellence PG Scholarships (€2k–€5k)
Trinity College Dublin

University College Cork (UCC)

  • QS Subject Ranking: #2 in Ireland, #32 globally
  • QS Overall: #292 globally
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Tuition (Non‑EU UG): €23,400/year
  • Acceptance Rate: 30%
  • Support Services: Generous 20% fee reduction for first-class honours via SEFS
  • Extras: Named Irish University of the Year multiple times; strong digital infrastructure
University College Cork

University College Dublin (UCD)

  • QS Subject Ranking: #3 in Ireland, 51–100 globally
  • QS Overall: #126 globally (2025)
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Tuition (Non‑EU UG): €29,100/year
  • Acceptance Rate: 25%
  • Scholarships: Global Excellence Scholarship (up to 50% tuition waiver)
University College Dublin

RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland)

  • THE Nursing/Health Ranking: #2 in Ireland, 176–200 globally
  • QS Overall: 801–1000
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Tuition (Non‑EU UG): €25,000–€32,000
  • Acceptance Rate: 15%
  • Notes: Known for high specialist training & international intake
RCSI

University of Galway (NUIG)

  • THE Ranking: #5 in Ireland, 251–300 globally
  • QS Subject Ranking: #4 in Ireland, 51–100 globally
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Tuition (Non‑EU UG): €26,500/year
  • Acceptance Rate: 35%
  • Scholarships: Hardiman Scholarship (€22,000 stipend + fee waiver)
  • Employment: Paid 36-week internship in year 4
University of Galway

University of Limerick (UL)

  • QS Subject Ranking: #5 in Ireland, 51–100 globally
  • QS Overall: #426 globally
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Tuition (Non‑EU UG): €26,900/year
  • Acceptance Rate: 35%
  • Employability: 100% employability within 12 months; mandatory 9-month placement often leads to job offers
University of Limerick

Dublin City University (DCU)

  • ARWU Subject Ranking: #4 in Ireland, 201–300 globally
  • QS Overall: #436 globally
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Tuition (Non‑EU UG): €15,000/year
  • Acceptance Rate: 45%
  • Scholarships: DCU International Merit Scholarships
Dublin City University

Entry Requirements (for International Students)

  • Completed 12th grade: With Biology and Chemistry.
  • Academic score: Minimum 60–70% or more.
  • Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 with no band below 6.0 or TOEFL equivalent.
  • HPAT or Interview: Not required for international students (only for Irish/EU applicants).
  • Medical & Police clearance: Required for clinical placement approval.

Step-By-Step Admission Process

Step 1: Choose Your Course and University

Decide the specific BSc Nursing specialisation: General, Mental Health, Intellectual Disability, Children’s & General Integrated.

Step 2: Check Entry Requirements

Each university has its own criteria. For BSc Nursing, the standard requirements include:

  • Academic: 12th-grade completion with Biology, Chemistry, and English with an academic score of 60–70% aggregate (depending on the university).
  • English Proficiency: IELTS: Overall 6.5 (no band below 6.0) or TOEFL iBT: 88+, or PTE: 63+
  • Additional: Valid passport, Medical clearance and immunisation records, Police clearance (for clinical placement), May require an interview (rare for international students)

Step 3: Prepare and Submit Application

A. Apply through university portal
Most applications are open from November to May (varies by university).

B. Documents Needed:

  • Academic transcripts & certificates
  • Proof of English proficiency
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) / Personal Statement
  • Letter(s) of Recommendation
  • Passport scan
  • CV (if required)

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

Most universities charge an application fee of €35–€50 per course. Some waive the fee for certain countries or during promotional periods.

Step 5: Wait for the Offer Letter

Response time: Usually 4–8 weeks after submission.

Two types of offers:

  • Conditional Offer (if pending results)
  • Unconditional Offer (if all criteria met)

Step 6: Accept the Offer

Confirm your place by paying the deposit fee (often €1,000–€3,000). This secures your admission and lets you start the visa process.

Step 7: Apply for Scholarships (Optional)

Apply early! Many close by April–June.

Scholarships for international students include:

  • Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GoI-IES)
  • University-specific merit scholarships (e.g., €2,000–€5,000 at UCD, UCC, NUIG)
  • Country-specific grants (India-Ireland, Erasmus+, etc.)

Step 9: Arrange Accommodation and Travel

  • Book university or private accommodation
  • Book flight tickets after visa approval
  • Carry original documents, offer letter, visa, and proof of payment when travelling

Step 10: Register & Begin Your Course

Land in Ireland at least 1–2 weeks before classes start (usually September).

Attend orientation, register at the university, and get your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) within 90 days of arrival.

BSc Nursing in Canada - Tuition Fees & Living Costs

Type of Expense Approximate Cost (Per Year)
Tuition Fee €10,000 – €18,000
Living Expenses €7,000 – €12,000
Health Insurance €500 – €700
Books & Materials €300 – €600

Career Opportunities - Salary After BSc Nursing in Ireland

1. NMBI Registration

Once your BSc in Nursing is completed, whether it’s General, Mental Health, or something more specialized, you’ll need to register with the NMBI (that’s Ireland’s official nursing board). It’s what makes things official so you can start working.

  • Registration cost: Around €145
  • Renewal: €100 each year
  • Timeline: Usually takes 4–6 weeks after you finish your degree

Once you’re registered, you’re officially a Registered Nurse (RN) and yes, you can legally start working in Ireland.

2. Job Opportunities for Nursing Graduates in Ireland

There’s a real demand for nurses right now. Irish hospitals, elder care homes, and even community clinics are hiring constantly. Staff shortages, an aging population, and nurses moving abroad all add up to more job openings than ever. So, if you’re qualified and motivated, Ireland is waiting for you.

Popular Work Settings:

  • Public hospitals (HSE)
  • Private hospitals (e.g., Bon Secours, Mater Private)
  • Community health centers
  • Elderly care homes
  • Mental health facilities
  • Disability support services
  • Home care & outreach nursing

Common Job Roles After BSc Nursing:

Job Title Avg. Annual Salary (Gross) Entry Level Experienced
Staff Nurse (General) €35,000 – €50,000 €35K – €40K €45K – €55K
Mental Health Nurse €37,000 – €55,000 €37K €50K+
Children’s Nurse €36,000 – €52,000 €36K €50K+
Nurse in Aged Care/Homecare €34,000 – €48,000 €34K €45K
Agency/Locum Nurse €20–35/hour €45K–€60K (full-time equiv.)
Community/Public Health Nurse €42,000 – €60,000 ~€42K €55K–€65K

3. Stay Back and Work Visa Options

Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP):

  • Eligibility: Job offer with salary ≥ €32,000/year from a registered Irish employer.
  • Validity: 2 years, renewable
  • PR Pathway: Eligible to apply for permanent residency after 5 years.

Third Level Graduate Scheme: After graduation, you can apply for a 1–2 year stay-back visa (Stamp 1G).

  • Work full-time (40 hrs/week) and seek a permanent job or sponsorship.
  • Tip: Most hospitals are familiar with hiring international nurses and can assist with CSEP paperwork.

4. Postgraduate Study Options

If you want to specialise or enhance your qualifications, Ireland offers several postgraduate paths:

Course Duration Outcome
MSc in Nursing (Advanced Practice) 1–2 years Eligibility for clinical leadership or education
Postgraduate Diploma in Nurse Prescribing 1 year Gain authority to prescribe medications
MSc in Mental Health, Palliative Care, Public Health 1–2 years Career move into niche areas
MSc Nursing (Research / Education) 1–2 years Move into academic or teaching roles

5. Career Growth & Long-Term Benefits

Career Pathway:

  • Staff Nurse
  • Clinical Nurse Manager (CNM)
  • Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP)
  • Director of Nursing
  • Healthcare Educator / Lecturer

In-Demand Nursing Specialisations:

  • Mental Health
  • Children’s Nursing
  • Palliative & Oncology
  • Intellectual Disability
  • Operating Theatre Nursing
  • ICU/CCU and Emergency Care

Other Important Factors for Students

Factor Details
Working Hours 37.5 hrs/week (full-time), shift-based
Part-Time Options Yes; common in home/community settings
Unionised Roles Public hospital nurses are often part of INMO union (negotiates better pay & work conditions)
Cost of Living €800–1,200/month in most cities
Tax Benefits First €16,500 is tax-free for single workers
Work-Life Balance Ireland ranks high on work-life balance in nursing jobs

Quick Summary

Feature Details
Job Titles Staff Nurse, Mental Health Nurse, Paediatric Nurse, etc.
Starting Salary €34K–€40K/year (₹30–₹35L)
Visa After Study Stamp 1G (2 years), then Critical Skills Visa
Further Studies MSc in Nursing, Advanced Practice, Prescribing
Career Growth Clinical Nurse Manager → ANP → Director of Nursing
Job Demand Very high, especially in elderly & mental health care

Cultural & Lifestyle Differences for Nursing Students in Ireland

Living Style & Independence

You’ll probably be doing your own cooking, cleaning, and keeping track of bills. Especially if you’re living in shared student housing or budget-friendly hostels.

Rent in Dublin can be high (€700–€1,000/month), but cities like Galway or Cork are more affordable (€500–€800/month).

Time & Punctuality

Time is taken seriously, being late to classes or placements is not acceptable. Clinical placements expect you to arrive early, follow routines, and be highly disciplined.

Note: So if you’re used to a more flexible culture around punctuality, this might take a bit of adjusting.

Communication Style

Irish people are generous and polite, they equally also value direct, clear communication. In classrooms or clinical settings, you are open to ask questions, share ideas, and express your concerns openly.

Healthcare Culture & Work Ethic

In Irish hospitals, nursing isn’t just about following instructions — you’re expected to think for yourself and advocate for your patients.

Nurses are seen as professionals, not just assistants. You’re expected to think critically, not just follow instructions.

Clinical placements may include elderly care, mental health wards, or palliative care, which may be culturally new to some students.

Academic Culture

In your BSc nursing, you’ll be expected to do your own research, think critically, and sometimes challenge what’s being taught. It’s not all memorization here.

Social Life & Friendships

Most students build a diverse group of friends, Irish locals, other internationals, and even people from home. Since Ireland’s small, it’s easy to meet people even outside your campus.

Weather & Seasonal Change

October to March, Expect chilly, rainy weather. It’s not freezing, but it’s damp, grey, and a little gloomy.

Work-Study Balance

You’re allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during the semester and full-time during breaks.

Cultural Inclusivity & Support

More and more Irish universities are stepping up when it comes to diversity and support for international students. You’ll find cultural societies, student advisors, and even peer groups to help you settle in — especially as an Indian student. You won’t be alone here.

Support for international students includes:

  • Mental health services
  • Career counselling
  • Faith/prayer rooms
  • International student welcome events

Ireland is safe, friendly, and open, but like any foreign country, adjustment takes time and emotional resilience.

Comparison Table of Ireland vs Other Countries

Factor Ireland UK Canada Australia USA
Course Duration 4 years 3 years 4 years 3–4 years 4 years
Tuition Fees (Annual) €10,000–€25,000(₹9–22 lakhs) £15,000–£22,000(₹16–23 lakhs) CAD 18,000–30,000(₹11–18 lakhs) AUD 28,000–45,000(₹15–25 lakhs) USD 25,000–40,000(₹20–33 lakhs)
Part-Time Work (During Study) 20 hrs/week 20 hrs/week 20 hrs/week 20 hrs/week 20 hrs/week
Post-Study Work Visa 2 years (Stamp 1G) 2 years (Graduate Route) Up to 3 years (PGWP) 2–4 years (485 Visa) 1–3 years (OPT)
Permanent Residency (PR) Path After 5 years on Critical Skills Permit After 5 years of work Easy via PR streams (Express Entry) After 2–3 years of skilled work Complex (Green Card lottery/work sponsorship)
Avg Starting Salary (Nurse) €35K–€40K(₹30–35L) £26K–£30K(₹27–32L) CAD 50K–65K(₹30–39L) AUD 60K–75K(₹33–42L) USD 60K–80K(₹50–66L)
Visa Success Rate High (90%+) Moderate to High High Moderate Moderate
Language Requirement IELTS 6.5 IELTS 6.5 IELTS 6.5/TOEFL IELTS 7.0 (some unis) TOEFL/IELTS (high scores)
Nurse Demand High (acute shortages) High (NHS demand) Very High High High (but licensing complex)
Living Costs (monthly) €800–1,200 £900–1,200 CAD 900–1,500 AUD 1,200–1,800 USD 1,500–2,000
Work Culture Friendly, nurse-led care Fast-paced, NHS-heavy Supportive, multicultural High-tech hospitals, diverse Intense, documentation-heavy
Healthcare Registration NMBI NMC NCLEX + Provincial Boards AHPRA NCLEX + State Boards
PR/Immigration Friendliness Good Moderate Excellent Good Competitive
Cultural Diversity High High Very High Very High High
Specialisation Options in BSc Nursing Choose from Year 1 or 2: General, Mental Health, Children’s, Intellectual Disability Apply directly to specialised tracks (Adult, Child, Mental Health, LD Nursing) General BSc Nursing only; specialisation postgrad General nursing at UG level; specialisation via postgrad or clinical General BSN; advanced roles only after RN license & PG study

Visa Process for International Students

Apply for Irish Student Visa

Apply for a Type D Study Visa at least 6–8 weeks before travel.

Documents Required:

  • Offer letter (unconditional)
  • Proof of tuition fee payment (full or partial)
  • Proof of funds (approx. €10,000 for 1 year in Irish bank account or equivalent)
  • Health insurance policy
  • Passport
  • Visa application form & fee (~€60–€100)
  • English language proof
  • Accommodation details (if possible)

Why Choose Educafic?

10+ Years of Trusted Experience

We’ve been helping students study abroad for over a decade, and our success stories speak for themselves.

Tailored University Shortlisting

We match you with the best universities based on your academic background, goals, and financial plan.

Expert, Personalised Counselling

Our experienced advisors offer genuine, one-on-one guidance to help you make smart, confident choices.

End-to-End Application & Scholarship Support

From preparing your application to unlocking scholarship opportunities, we’re by your side at every step.

Visa Guidance with Proven Success Rates

With strong documentation support and mock interviews, our students secure visas smoothly and on time.

Direct Tie-Ups with Top Global Universities

We’re official partners with leading institutions in Australia and beyond, giving you exclusive access and faster admissions.

Powerful SOPs & Interview Coaching

We help you craft impactful SOPs and prep for university or visa interviews that truly stand out.

Transparent Process, No Hidden Costs

No fine print, no surprises, just honest advice and clear support from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the BSc Nursing program in Ireland?

What specialisations can I choose in BSc Nursing?

Can international students apply for BSc Nursing in Ireland?

What are the English language requirements?

How much does BSc Nursing cost in Ireland?

Can I work while studying?

Is Ireland safe for Indian students?

Will I get job opportunities after graduation?

Do I get a post-study work visa?

What is the salary of a nurse in Ireland after BSc?

For any further queries, reach out to our experts at Educafic for FREE guidance and let us help you fulfil your dream of becoming a doctor in Australia.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • Why Choose Ireland?
  • BSc Nursing: Highlights
  • Best BSc Nursing Universities in Ireland
  • Entry Requirements (for International Students)
  • Step-By-Step Admission Process
  • BSc Nursing in Canada - Tuition Fees & Living Costs
  • Career Opportunities - Salary After BSc Nursing in Ireland
  • Other Important Factors for Students
  • Quick Summary
  • Cultural & Lifestyle Differences for Nursing Students in Ireland
  • Comparison Table of Ireland vs Other Countries
  • Visa Process for International Students
  • Why Choose Educafic?
  • Frequently Asked Questions
NEET-Banner