Higher Study in Ireland vs Canada: Which Study Abroad Destination is Ideal for Indian Students?

Studying abroad is a substantial choice for any international student. Understanding the choice between Ireland or Canada can sometimes feel like pouring over a puzzle. Both countries offer high quality education, fun and the chance to build careers.

Both Ireland and Canada are popular study abroad destinations for international students, meaning there is a wealth of information available online.

This guide explores Ireland and the study in Canada, how they compare to each other, and ultimately gives you a better shot at a final decision between Ireland and Canada, especially for Indian students seeking apply to study abroad programs as a part of higher education training.

Study in Ireland vs Canada: A General Overview

Are you aware that Canada has always been one of the most popular choices for international students, as well as Ireland who is part of the EU and has thousands each year going there.

Canada and Ireland both bring different opportunities that make them unique destinations.

• Canada offers a world-class education system, has many high-growth job prospects after for international students.
• Ireland also has an excellent education system with universities, colleges, and technical institutions, and courses in Ireland are geared to global job sectors in Ireland.
• Living costs in Ireland are roughly higher than some cities in Canada although living expenses may be more or less depending on location.

Table: General Comparison of Ireland vs Canada

5 Best Universities in Ireland for Indian Students

Did you know? Ireland has one of the youngest populations and is known for its energetic and inventive atmosphere at its universities. Students from India coming to Ireland will find programs in both technical and creative fields.

Here is a list of some of the top universities in Ireland:

Table: Best Universities in Ireland for Indian Students

5 Best Universities in Canada for Indian Students

Here is an interesting piece of information: Canada has various institutes ranked globally among the leading universities, which makes it one of the best study abroad options for international students. Thousands of international students study alongside Canadian students because of its diversity.

Table: Best Canadian Universities for Indian Students

Canada vs Ireland: Student Visa, Cost of Living and Cost of Studying

You may not have known that before commencing classes, international students are required to hold a study visa in Ireland, and a study permit in Canada.

The application process for visas is different for each country, but both Canada and Ireland have tried to make the process simple.  

• To apply for a study visa in Ireland, first you need to have a university offer letter, and proof of funds, and the application must be submitted before arriving in Ireland.  
• Canada offers students a study permit, where international students are able to have a post-graduation work permit in Canada to work after studies.   
• Generally speaking, the cost of living is less expensive in Canada than in Ireland, with Ireland’s cost of living often significantly on the rise, with cities like Dublin regularly ranking top 10 cities to live in the world.

Table: Visa and Cost Comparison

What are the Scholarships to Study in Canada and Ireland

Did you know that scholarships can not only lower costs of living, but the relieve financial stresses for international students? Canada and Ireland also have numerous scholarships available for Indian students.

Table: Scholarships in Canada and Ireland

Education System and Job Opportunities in Ireland and Canada

Here’s a fact – several international students choose Canada because they have pathways to permanent residency, while Ireland also has great job industries in many sectors and welcomes talents from across the globe.

• The education system in Ireland is comprised of universities, colleges and institutes, while Canada has many flexible pathways for international students.
• Ireland for IT jobs is a tech hub, with the headquarters of some of the top tech companies such as Google and Facebook located in Dublin.
• Likewise, Canada also provides opportunities across healthcare, engineering, and business sectors.

Table: Job Opportunities Comparison

How to Apply for a Work Permit in Canada?

Did you know that full-time students in Canada also qualify for a post-graduation work permit without a condition as to time, if requirements have been met.

This makes Canada one of the better destinations for international students. 

• Students must apply for a work permit within up to 180 days of completing their studies.
• The post-graduation work permit in Canada is tied to the year of your studies and can be as long as three years.
• International students studying in Canada can also benefit by getting PR in Canada after gaining work experience.

Table: Work Permit Application in Canada

Conclusion

Ireland and Canada rank as two of the most popular study abroad destinations for international students both hold international recognition in higher education and consume tuition fees within the global average range, offer a broad range of academic programs, and will provide your future employer with meaningful choice when it comes to recruiting applicants.

Whether to travel to Ireland or Canada depends on your own objectives, finances and post-study pathways. For professional service to make an informed decision to study in Canada or Ireland, contact Ambitio today and start your successful pathway to travel abroad.

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