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Ireland and Canada are promising study-abroad choices for international students. According to the Irish Times, international academic enrollments are at a record high. Canada also receives more academic applications every year. According to the IRCC data, international students crossed the mark of 1 million in Canada by January 2024.
In this context, students aspiring to study in these countries must understand the basics before taking the next step. Read on and gain your foundational insights for a successful academic journey abroad.
Ireland vs. Canada: A Glance
| Feature | Ireland | Canada |
| Average Tuition Fee | 10,000 – 35,000 USD | 15,000 – 36,000 USD |
| Average Living Costs | 1,300 – 2,000 USD | 1,000 – 1,500 USD |
| Language Requirements | IELTS (6.0+), TOEFL (78+), PTE (53+), Duolingo (120+), Cambridge C1 Advanced (180+), and C2 Proficiency (200+) | IELTS (6.0+), TOEFL (78+), PTE (53+), Duolingo (120+), Cambridge C1 Advanced (180+), and C2 Proficiency (200+) |
| Post-study Work Permit | Up to 2 years | Up to 3 years |
| Student Visa Fees | 73 EUR/ 78 USD | 150 CAD/ 109 USD |
| Top Companies for Jobs | Google, HP, Apple, IBM, Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, Pfizer, GSK, and Genzyme. | Amazon, Google, Accenture, Deloitte, Rogers Communications, IBM, and Telus |
| Top Job Sectors | IT, Technology, Engineering, Life Sciences, Healthcare, Construction, Management | IT, Management, Technology, Engineering, Life Sciences, Healthcare |
Understanding Climate, Culture, and Safety in Ireland vs. Canada
- Ireland vs. Canada weather: The Ireland vs. Canada weather question concerns many aspirants. Canada experiences a continental climate characterized by significant fluctuations in temperature throughout the year, with chilly winters and balmy summers. Ireland has a temperate and maritime climate characterized by moderate yearly rainfall.
- Ireland vs. Canada culture: Canada is an immigrant-friendly country with a culture influenced by European, Asian, and Latin American cultures. The society functions upon the foundations of tolerance, patience, and communal values. Ireland is renowned for its welcoming and warm culture. With its diverse international community and English as the primary language, international students consider Ireland their second home.
- Ireland vs. Canada safety concerns: According to the Vision of Humanity global survey, Ireland is 3rd, and Canada ranks 11th in the global peace index. It indicates both countries are safe for international students.
Top Universities in Ireland vs. Canada
Questions on Ireland vs. Canada education can be answered by comparing the top universities. Both countries offer quality education that elevates a student’s career prospects.
Top Universities in Ireland
Irish universities offer educational excellence in diverse fields of study, be it a STEM course or humanities. The universities are ranked for their global facilities and multifold excellence in various areas.
| University in Ireland | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
| Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin | 81 |
| University College Dublin | 171 |
| University of Galway | 289 |
| University College Cork | 292 |
| University of Limerick | 426 |
| Dublin City University | 436 |
Top Universities in Canada
Canadian universities are prestigious for their modern approach and integration of the latest into academics. Among them, the following universities are ranked the top by QS, an international agency.
| University in Canada | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
| University of Toronto | 21 |
| McGill University | 30 |
| University of British Columbia | 34 |
| University of Alberta | 111 |
| University of Waterloo | 112 |
| Western University | 114 |
| University of Montreal | 141 |
| University of Calgary | 182 |
| McMaster University | 189 |
| University of Ottawa | 203 |
Top Courses in Ireland and Canada
Understanding the top course for your academic requirements is crucial. It could be a bachelor’s degree, a master’s, a diploma, or a certified course. Decide your course options after analyzing your career requirements to invest your time and money in study-abroad decisions effectively.
Given below is a handpicked list of subjects with top courses to study in Canada. Evaluate your profile and find your top course options – connect with Nomad Credit’s counselor today.
Top Courses in Canada
- Computer Science
- Business Management
- Engineering
- Hospitality
- Tourism Management
- Economics
- Accounting
- Finance
- Marketing
Top Courses in Ireland
- Business Analytics
- Data Science
- Computer Science
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Management
- Law
- Construction
Eligibility Requirements to Study in Ireland and Canada
The following are the eligibility criteria for study in Ireland or Canada for international students in general:
- 12 years of school education for undergraduate courses
- 3 or 4 years of bachelor’s degree for postgraduate courses
- Financial proof for funding your study for at least 1 year
Having relevant work experience is required for many programs. Connect with your concerned university personnel to get the exact checklist of eligibility.
Documents Required:
| For Ireland | For Canada |
| Application form – duly filled | Application form – duly filled |
| Receipt of the paid application fee | Receipt of the paid application fee |
| A valid passport | A valid passport |
| Student visa | A study permit from the immigration authorities |
| Offer letter from the university | Acceptance letter from the university & a Provisional Attestation Letter (PAL) |
| Proof of English proficiency – IELTS (6.0+), TOEFL (78+), PTE (53+), Duolingo (120+), Cambridge C1 Advanced (180+), and C2 Proficiency (200+) | Proof of English proficiency – IELTS (6.0+), TOEFL (78+), PTE (53+), Duolingo (120+), Cambridge C1 Advanced (180+), and C2 Proficiency (200+) |
| Mandatory entrance test results – GRE, GMAT, BMAT, LNAT, UKCAT in applicable cases | Mandatory entrance test results – GRE, GMAT, BMAT, LNAT, UKCAT in applicable cases |
| SOP (Statement of Purpose) | SOP (Statement of Purpose) |
| At least 2 – 3 letters of recommendation | At least 2 – 3 letters of recommendation |
| A resume or CV | A resume or CV |
Ireland vs. Canada: Cost of Study
Calculating your cost of education in Canada and Ireland helps to decide your financial source to sponsor your study abroad. When the amount is high to afford, consider an education loan option, as many minimal-interest options are there in the market.
Here is a general overview of the cost of study in Ireland and Canada:
| Level of Study | Ireland | Canada |
| Undergraduate | 10,000 – 30,000 USD | 30,000 – 36,100 USD |
| Postgraduate | 15,000 – 35,000 USD | 18,000 – 21,100 USD |
| Doctoral | 10,000 – 35,000 USD | 6,000 – 15,000 USD |
Living Cost in Ireland vs. Canada
To answer your concerns about living in Canada vs. Ireland, you must consider the following:
- Ireland: University College Cork data indicates that the average monthly expenditure for international students in Ireland falls between 1,300 and 2,000 USD.
- Canada: Monthly living expenses for international students typically range from 1,000 to 1,500 USD, averaging around 15,000 USD annually. Note that the cost of living varies considerably among the provinces in Canada.
| Category of expense | Ireland | Canada |
| Accommodation | 500 – 1,200 USD/ month | 900 – 2,000 USD/ month |
| Transportation | 70 – 90 USD/ month | 80 – 120 USD/ month |
| Health Insurance | 500 – 700 USD/ year | 500 – 1,000 USD/ year |
| Food & Groceries | 260 – 400 USD/ month | 500 – 1,000 USD/ month |
| Books & Stationaries | 80 – 90 USD | 50 – 100 USD |
Ireland vs. Canada: Student Visa Requirements
Learn about the visa application process before you initiate your study abroad application. Nomad Credit makes it easy at zero cost, just with a call. Get personalized study abroad visa guidance at zero cost and explore your path with confidence.
For a general overview, the following documents are mandatory for a student visa to study in Ireland or Canada:
| Ireland | Canada |
| Application form & letter | Application form & letter |
| Passport – current & previous ones (if any) | Passport – current & previous ones (if any) |
| Proof of university admission | Letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution |
| ETF (Electronic Transfer of Funds) copy to prove you have paid the fee to the college | Application fee receipt |
| English-proficiency certificate | English-proficiency certificate |
| Medical certificate | Medical certificate |
| Proof of funds | Proof of funds |
| Insurance | Insurance |
Work Visa in Ireland and Canada
Many students plan to live in countries abroad after their studies. If you’re thinking about living in Canada vs. Ireland, note the following points:
- After completing your studies, a work visa will allow you to work in Ireland for a maximum of 2 years.
- In Canada, you can apply for a PR if you complete 5 years of work. In Canada, an international student can stay up to 3 years after completing the course, especially at the master’s level.
- After working for 5 years, immigrants can apply for a PR in Ireland.
- To get a Canada PR, immigrants must have at least 12 months of work experience 3 years before applying for a PR.
| Ireland vs. Canada immigration: Ireland and Canada allow international citizens to study or work there. To be a successful immigrant, adhere to the guidelines and apply properly. International students can gain work experience and eventually settle down in these countries. |
Salary Comparison: Ireland vs. Canada
Ireland is the primary European base for over 1,000 multinational corporations focusing on ICT, Social Media, Pharmaceuticals, and Finance. This includes well-known companies such as Google, HP, Apple, IBM, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Pfizer, GSK, and Genzyme.
Canada boasts a growing market for industries with the presence of global companies. The top companies in Canada include Amazon, Google, Accenture, Deloitte, Rogers Communications, IBM, and Telus.
| Job Role | Salary in Ireland | Salary in Canada |
| Software Developer | 65,000 – 100,000 USD | 46,000 – 68,000 USD |
| Engineer | 50,000 – 80,000 USD | 64,000 – 99,000 USD |
| Nurse | 43,000 – 58,000 USD | 50,000 – 65,000 USD |
| Data Analyst | 44,000 – 65,000 USD | 37,000 – 55,000 USD |
| Business Analyst | 49,000 – 72,000 USD | 42,000 – 58,000 USD |
| Marketing Manager | 50,000 – 92,000 USD | 41,000 – 61,000 USD |
| Financial Analyst | 40,000 – 63,000 USD | 39,000 – 53,000 USD |
Which is Better – Ireland or Canada?
The answer to the question is subjective, depending upon an individual’s choices. Cultural factors, academic interests, financial affordability, and other factors are factors that will help you decide your study abroad destination. Sort out your confusion – talk to our expert counselor and bring clarity to your study abroad decisions.
- Both countries accept international applications and facilitate a top academic experience for international students.
- Education loan options are available for both countries without much hassle. However, Canada has more education loan options than Ireland.
- Ireland and Canada have different cultural practices. Have a ride through the socio-cultural differences to make your choice.
Research your goals more and make your choice wisely. Nomad Credit can help you choose better. Book a zero-cost consultation call and shoot your concerns to our expert counselor. Joining us at no cost will give you customized university suggestions, education loan guidance, admission assistance, and student visa counseling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can Nomad Credit be of any help to me?
Nomad Credit offers zero-cost study abroad assistance to students dreaming of international education. Our unique approach finds the top university options and education-funding sources exclusively for your profile. Plus, you will be guided on SOP and student visa applications, all at no cost. Explore your personalized options that no one tells you with Nomad Credit today!
Is Ireland a good study-abroad option for Indian students?
Ireland is an advisable study-abroad destination for Indian students. Ireland boasts an excellent education system and European headquarters for global giants like Google, Apple, and Amazon. Plus, the beautiful landscapes of Ireland are soothing for your heart.
How is Ireland vs. Canada’s quality of life?
Ireland and Canada are popular for the standard of life they provide for international students. According to Numbeo, a renowned statistical agency, Canada and Ireland perform excellently for the quality of life index.
Canada vs. Ireland for masters – which is better?
Ireland and Canada are home to global universities offering excellent master’s programs. You may decide your country option after analyzing your admission chances in the top universities of Canada and Ireland.
What is the average salary in Ireland vs. Canada?
The average salary is different for various job roles and people, considering their experience, skills, and city of living. Taking an overview, both countries offer 40,000 – 100,000 USD for a PG-level graduate, according to Glassdoor.
What is the cost of living in Ireland vs. Canada?
The cost of living for international students in Ireland could be 1,300 – 2,000 USD, and in Canada, around 1,000 – 1,500 USD per month. Note that this is a general estimation, and the actual cost is subject to change, depending on your city of living and personal expenses.
