With more and more Indian students opting to go abroad for higher studies, Dr Brian McElduff tells PRAKRITI ROY why Ireland is suitable for them
Why should Indian students choose Ireland for higher educationIJ
Students coming to Ireland can be assured that they will be studying in a safe and welcoming environment. In a recent independent study of 18 European countries, 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. They offer a wide range of areas, including medicine, finance, engineering, business, management and sciences. Ireland offers very good value for money for Indian students and the chance of a hugely valuable educational experience. Students looking to widen their horizons academically, professionally and culturally should consider Ireland.
Does Ireland provide ease of access to Indian studentsIJ
Yes. At our education fairs, students can meet with academics and senior staff from Irish institutions to get a clear understanding of course content and entry requirements. Also, we always have a visa officer present to counsel the student (and parents) on visa requirements. Once in Ireland, the student will find a support network for international students through the international office and the accommodation office.
Work permit for how many years is given to international studentsIJ
A student visa to Ireland allows non-EU/EEA students who have graduated from Irish higher education institutions to remain in Ireland for an additional 12 months to seek employment. International students on approved programmes can avail of casual work to help support themselves while in Ireland. Students are allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours a week) or full-time (up to 40 hours a week) during academic holiday periods.
lDo maximum students go for UG courses or PG coursesIJ
Majority of Indians are studying at postgraduate level. The most popular disciplines include data analytics, cloud computing, computer science, management, business, finance and MBA. There is also a growing interest in niche courses such as cyber security, food technology and hotel management. In the undergraduate sector, there is a growing interest among Indian students in arts and humanities.
What is the scope for work after studying in IrelandIJ Which industries can young graduates work inIJ
There is skill shortage in certain fields in Ireland including ICT, engineering and pharmaceutical sectors. We have seen an increase in the number of international students coming to Ireland to study these courses. Over 1,000 multinational companies have set up operations in Ireland. Many of the programmes offered at our higher education institutions offer internships in these companies as part of their academic programme.
How does the Irish education system make Indians skill/job readyIJ
Indian students who come to Ireland have proven themselves to be not just academically strong but also adept at transitioning successfully into the workplace. The professionalism with which young Indian students start out in their careers is very valuable to their education institution as it strengthens the reputation of the institution among industry leaders.
Can you give us the year-on-year percentage growth of number of Indian students studying in IrelandIJ
There are, at present, land. Around 2,000 of these are Indian students, and growing each year. The number of Indian students studying in Ireland has risen particularly in the last five years due to an increased awareness of Ireland, its culture and the strong post-study employment opportunities.