Going to College: Studying in another EU country is becoming more popular

Students who qualify for Susi grant can bring it with them

The Netherlands is the most popular EU destination for Irish students

Katherine Donnelly Email

January 10 2022 02:30 AM

Studying in another EU country is an increasingly popular option for the Irish.

While the numbers involved are relatively small, it provides an outlet for those who are squeezed out of a college place at home because of intense competition and/or those who want a taste of life on mainland Europe.

One of the drivers of the trend in recent year is the number of universities in countries such as The Netherlands — the most popular destination for Irish students — Denmark, Poland and Italy, offering courses taught entirely in English.

Coupled with that, entry requirements are generally lower than Ireland, even in some of the most highly ranked universities. Courses may be fees-free or with lower fees than in Ireland.

According to Guy Flouch of Eunicas, an application support service for European universities, there has been continued growth in interest, at undergraduate and, particularly, post-graduate level this year.

In a sign of the tough competition at home, 49 of 80 first-year Veterinary students in Warsaw University of Life Sciences are Irish.

A student who qualifies for the Susi grant can bring it with them, while some countries may offer further financial support.