Here’s why international students love studying in Cork, Ireland every year
Cork, situated in the southwest province of Munster, is the second-largest metropolis in Ireland. It is a significant academic city in Ireland, with a student population ratio that exceeds the national average. Despite its youthful demographic, this lively city offers a distinctive quality of life and an affordable cost of living, with a total population of 221,452. This figure includes an estimated 3,500 students.
Top reasons why international students choose to study in Cork
Cork is a top choice for students seeking to study in Ireland for a variety of reasons.
Variety of sought-after courses in Cork
Engineering, management, and life sciences are among the most popular disciplines offered at universities in Cork, Ireland. University College Cork is ranked in the top 200 for Life Sciences and the top 300 for Engineering in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022. Languages, music, marketing, management, information systems, data science, corporate finance, marine engineering, art, and design are among the most popular courses offered by institutions in Cork.
Top institutions and colleges to study in Cork
Some of the world’s most highly-ranked universities are located in Cork. University College Cork is ranked among the top 350 universities worldwide in the 2023 QS World University Rankings. Additionally, there are additional universities that are highly regarded by international students:
- Griffith College, Cork
- Munster Technological University (formerly known as Cork Institute of Technology CIT)
- National Maritime College of Ireland
Scholarships available for studying in Cork
We recognize that the prospect of studying abroad can be both overwhelming and financially challenging. However, there is no need for concern, as universities in Cork provide numerous scholarships for undergraduate, master’s, and research degrees. Several of the following are available for you to apply to:
- Scholarships at University College Cork (UCC)
- International student scholarships at the Cork Institute of Technology (CIT)
- Academic Merit Scholarships
If you are interested in exploring additional study options in Cork, you may consult with the international education experts at Liveabroad for assistance.
Great career scope in Cork
Students can improve their careers by studying in Cork, as there are numerous internship opportunities and full-time employment placements.
Pfizer Inc., Johnson & Johnson, and Novartis are among the high-performance corporations with their headquarters in Cork. Additionally, Cork serves as Apple Inc.’s European headquarters. Amazon.com, EMC Corporation, and Logitech comprise the information technology corporations situated here. Heineken Brewery, Ferrero Factory, and Ford Motor Company comprise the manufacturing sector. Bon Secours Hospital, Mercy University Hospital, and Cork University Hospital are among the top ten employers in Cork.
Both UCC and CIT have fledgling company incubation centers that provide support for entrepreneurship. The corporate sector and academic institutions in Cork collaborate closely. This enables pupils to acquire the most valuable experience and the most promising employment prospects.
Work rights for international students in Cork
During the academic session, international students who possess a valid immigration Stamp 2 permission are permitted to labor for 20 hours per week. These hours are increased to 40 hours per week during the months of May, June, July, and August, as well as from December 15 to January 15. If they are enrolled in a course that is one year or longer, they are not required to obtain a specific work permit in order to work part-time.
The minimum wage in Ireland is €9.15 per hour. The Irish Third Level Graduate Scheme, which the country offers as a post-study pathway for international students, enables NQF Level 9 or 10 graduates to remain in Ireland in order to apply for a green card/work permit or for employment. Eventually, students may submit applications for either the General Employment Permit or the Critical Skills Employment Permit.
Cultural exposure for international students in Cork
Cork is a city that is replete with cultural heritage. It has become a favored choice among international students due to its stunning scenic locations, pleasant climate, rich heritage of theater and music, and architectural marvels. The following are the reasons you will be profoundly impressed by Cork:
Address:
Cork City is home to one of the world’s largest natural harbors and is traversed by the River Lee. This is the reason the city’s motto is as follows:
Station Bene Fide Carinis
– a secure harbor for vessels.
Temperature:
The climate is temperate and oceanic, characterized by moderate temperatures and a significant amount of precipitation.
Fans of music and theater:
Numerous theater companies and prominent rock bands are situated in Cork. For instance, Cork has been described by The Lonely Planet as
“at the pinnacle of its profession: vibrant, sophisticated, and diverse”
Heritage of architecture:
St. Mary’s Cathedral and Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral are two of the city’s most renowned architectural structures. The primary shopping artery in the city is St. Patrick’s Artery.
Well-connected city
The second busiest airport in the Republic of Ireland is located in the city. The city is well-connected to other cities in Ireland by train and road.
Various accommodation options in Cork
University or private residences are viable alternatives for students. Apartments that accommodate four to eight students are the norm for university accommodations. One private bedroom, a shared kitchen, a living room, and a restroom are all included in the apartments. In addition, students have the option of selecting autonomous self-catering accommodations.
Health and safety benefits for international students in Cork
International students have prioritized health and safety at all institutions. Private health insurance coverage is mandatory for international pupils during their time in Ireland. When applying for a visa and registering with the Garda National Immigration Bureau, it is mandatory to provide proof of health insurance.
In January 2012, the World Health Organization (WHO) awarded Cork the designation of a “healthy city.” This designation is a testament to the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance its physical and social environments, as well as to expand the community resources that enable individuals to mutually support one another in achieving their full potential and performing all of life’s functions. The city’s vision is to reduce health inequalities and enhance the health and well-being of all its residents.