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Ireland’s Education System Explained for Indian Students

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Ireland has become a top destination for Indian students hoping to pursue their education worldwide. A world-class academic environment, post-study employment prospects, and a rich cultural heritage are all combined uniquely in Ireland. However, when transitioning from the Indian academic setup to the Irish education structure, the terminology and framework can initially feel a bit confusing.

Understanding how the Ireland academic system functions, from grading patterns and credit points to degree levels is vital for making a successful application. Let's look closely at how the Ireland education system for Indian students is structured, ensuring your journey from India is seamless and successful.

Our experts to help you study in Ireland

Ramyashri

Ramyashri

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Ramyashri

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Passionate about student success, Ramyashri simplifies the study abroad process with expert guidance.

She ensures smooth applications and visa approvals, helping students achieve their Ireland education dreams.

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Dinakaran

Dinakaran

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Dinakaran

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With extensive knowledge of Ireland universities, Dinakaran provides personalized guidance for students.

From course selection to visa assistance, he makes studying in Ireland seamless and stress-free.

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Praveen

Praveen

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Praveen

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Meticulous and detail-oriented, Praveen ensures every Ireland application meets university requirements.

His expertise in documentation helps students submit strong, successful applications.

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Harish

Harish

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Harish

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Known for his supportive approach, Harish helps students choose the right universities.

From applications to visas, he ensures a stress-free experience.

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Dinesh

Dinesh

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Dinesh

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With a keen eye for detail, Dinesh guides students through every stage of the application.

His expertise ensures students submit strong, competitive applications.

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Saalim

Saalim

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Saalim

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As the Branch Director, Saalim leads with expertise, ensuring top-notch study abroad guidance.

His student-first approach helps students achieve their academic dreams successfully.

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Harold

Harold

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Harold

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Passionate about student success, Harold provides expert advice on choosing the right course.

He ensures students find the best-fit programs and navigate admissions easily.

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Nithin

Nithin

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Nithin

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As a Student Advisor, Nithin helps students make informed decisions about their education.

His expert advice ensures a smooth and successful study abroad journey.

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Gayathri

Gayathri

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Gayathri

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An expert in student advising, Gayathri ensures students find the best-fit programs.

She simplifies the study abroad process with clear, step-by-step guidance.

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Akila

Akila

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Akila

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Managing the Tambaram branch, Akila ensures students receive end-to-end study abroad support.

From university selection to visa processing, she handles it all.

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Christophia G

Christophia G

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Christophia G

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Passionate about helping students, Christophia provides detailed guidance on applications.

Her support ensures students successfully secure university admissions.

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Vigneshwar

Vigneshwar

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Vigneshwar

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Dedicated and supportive, Vigneshwar helps students make confident academic decisions.

His expertise ensures students secure the best global education opportunities.

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Sreenith

Sreenith

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Sreenith

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A dedicated counselor, Sreenith helps students navigate their study abroad journey.

His expert advice ensures smooth application and visa processes.

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Yogesh

Yogesh

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Yogesh

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As a Student Advisor, Yogesh helps students explore top universities worldwide.

His expertise ensures students choose the right course and institution.

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Ameena

Ameena

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Ameena

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Ameena's experience and proven track record in student counselling excel at resolving complex challenges.

Her dedication to guiding students knows no limits, ensuring successful outcomes.

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Dimple

Dimple

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Dimple

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Dimple is a highly experienced and motivated education consultant with a strong background in the consulting field.

Known for her "never say never" attitude, she is around the clock to support students.

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Stefin

Stefin

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Stefin

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Stefin is an experienced overseas education consultant, dedicated to helping students achieve their study abroad dreams.

He provides expert guidance ensuring personalized support throughout the entire process.

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Gideon

Gideon

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Gideon

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Gideon is passionate and excels at making the perfect study abroad choices for the students.

If you're uncertain, a conversation with Gideon can provide clarity for your studies abroad.

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Insha

Insha

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Insha

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Insha fosters a positive environment and provides consistent, up-to-date guidance, ensuring a high success rate.

Insha ensures that her students receive the best possible options for their future.

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Karthick Bhagavan Doss

Karthick Bhagavan Doss

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Karthick Bhagavan Doss

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With his banking background, Karthick excels in end-to-end planning for studying abroad from the first call.

His tactical approach and practical solutions makes him a expert in navigating challenges.

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Komal

Komal

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Komal

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Komal’s multilingual fluency helps her understand parents' perspectives when guiding students studying abroad.

Available 24/7, she provides support throughout every step of the study abroad process.

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Mateen

Mateen

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Mateen

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Mateen, our most senior consultant with 500+ five star reviews is known for his exceptional consulting skills.

He brings extensive experience in consulting, ensuring top-notch student guidance and support.

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Michelle

Michelle

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Michelle

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Michelle is a highly professional consultant with a methodical approach to study abroad counseling.

Her attention to detail and organized process make her a trusted advisor for students.

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Padmini

Padmini

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Padmini

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Padmini’s sharp memory allows her to swiftly recall universities, courses, fees, and admission requirements.

She is always available to assist with queries and excels in visa filing, ensuring a smooth process.

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Praveen jangid

Praveen jangid

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Praveen jangid

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Praveen excels with precise recommendations and a friendly demeanor, creating a positive learning environment in the team.

Available 24/7, he addresses student queries and offers comprehensive support.

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Prithika

Prithika

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Prithika

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Pritika’s soft-spoken yet intelligent approach makes her exceptional in providing top-notch student service.

Her ability to connect with student ensures a supportive and responsive counseling experience.

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Roja

Roja

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Roja

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Roja, an expert consultant for top destinations, leverages her knowledge to guide students in making informed choices.

She has consistently held a 100% visa success rate for the past two years.

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Sathya

Sathya

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Sathya

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Known for her aggressive performance to excellence, Sathya is dedicated to helping students achieve their goals.

Her proactive approach and dedication make her a valuable asset to her students’ success.

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Yashas

Yashas

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Yashas

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One of our first employees, Yashas, is a star performer, reflecting his exceptional professional acumen.

His thorough and meticulous approach ensures that no question goes unanswered.

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Logesh

Logesh

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Logesh

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Logesh, the branch manager of our Hyderabad office, is a bundle of energy who never tires of engaging with students.

Through his unwavering commitment to his role, he has advanced through the ranks.

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Kausic

Kausic

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Kausic

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Kausic, a quick learner with a rapidly growing knowledge maintains a strong rapport with students.

He is dedicated to providing comprehensive options tailored to each student’s needs.

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Sujatha

Sujatha

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Sujatha

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Sujatha excels in guiding and supporting students even under pressure, using her well-developed strategies.

Her commitment to never missing student calls and her interactions with parents sets her apart.

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Thiru

Thiru

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Thiru

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Thiru, our top-performing study abroad expert, drives our organisation’s student-centric focus with his expertise.

Counselling, application filing, visa applications— You name it, Thiru handles it all with efficiency!

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Faseeha

Faseeha

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Faseeha

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As a key executive specializing in student loans, Faseeha has become an invaluable member of our consulting team.

Her dedication ensures students receive comprehensive guidance on their educational journey.

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Sagaya Vasanth

Sagaya Vasanth

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Sagaya Vasanth

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Vasanth’s expertise in the visa process, coupled with a 100% success rate, ensures students make well-informed decisions.

His comprehensive approach makes him an all-rounder in student assistance.

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Varshini

Varshini

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Varshini

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Varshini’s meticulous attention to detail and conciseguidance ensure that students receive tailored support.

She built strong relationships with students through her exceptional personalized service.

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Nivedha

Nivedha

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Nivedha

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A student-focused counselor, Nivedha provides expert guidance tailored to individual aspirations.

She makes studying abroad a smooth, well-planned journey.

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Julia

Julia

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Julia

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Julia, the Branch Manager, expertly handles student queries and is recognized as a trusted advisor.

Committed to sharing her knowledge, she ensures students make informed decision-making.

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Arokiya Sundari

Arokiya Sundari

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Arokiya Sundari

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Sundari is an expert in student counselling, with over 500 successful students now thriving at top universities.

With years of experience, she excels in guiding students and effectively leading her team.

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Ireland’s Education System Explained for Indian Students

1. The National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)

The absolute foundation of the Ireland study system explained rests on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). Think of the NFQ as a 10-level scale that measures the standard of all educational qualifications in the country.

When studying in Ireland from India, your previous degrees map directly onto this scale. This system ensures transparency and makes it easy for global employers to gauge the exact value of your qualification.

NFQ Level

Irish Qualification

Equivalent Indian Degree

Typical Duration

Level 7 Ordinary Bachelor Degree 3-Year Bachelor's (B.Com, B.Sc, B.A) 3 Years
Level 8 Honours Bachelor Degree / Higher Diploma 4-Year Professional Bachelor's (B.Tech, B.E) 3 to 4 Years
Level 9 Master’s Degree (Taught or Research) / PG Diploma Master's Degree (M.Tech, M.Sc, MBA) 1 to 2 Years
Level 10 Doctoral Degree (PhD) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) 3 to 4 Years
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2. Key Pillars of Higher Education in Ireland for Indian Students

The landscape of higher education in Ireland for Indian students is split between two major types of public institutions, both offering top-tier academic rigor but focusing on slightly different learning styles:

  • Traditional Research Universities: Institutions such as Trinity College Dublin (TCD), University College Dublin (UCD), and University of Galway place a strong emphasis on academic research, theoretical frameworks, and a wide range of degree programs.
  • Technological Universities (TUs): Formed by merging well-known Institutes of Technology (like TU Dublin or Munster Technological University). They place a strong emphasis on real-world, industry-focused training, required internships, and quick career preparedness.
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3. Core Differences: Indian vs. Ireland Study System

You must quickly adopt to the local academic culture if you want to perform well in your courses. The study system in Ireland for Indians includes a few distinct shifts from what you might be used to back home:

  • A. The ECTS Credit System: Ireland uses the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) rather than classroom time to track how well its students are doing. A typical one-year Taught Master's degree consists of 90 ECTS credits, with 60 credits for coursework and 30 credits for a major dissertation or project.
  • B. Independent Learning Culture: Frequent classroom observation and well-organized textbooks are used in the Indian educational system. On the other hand, Irish academics provide wide reading lists and require you to do your own study. Independent thought and critical analysis are valued much more in assignments than rote memorization.
  • C. Grading Systems: In Ireland, a securing over 70% is regarded as a First Class Honors, which is an exclusive academic accomplishment. The Irish grading scales are carefully curved, making a 70%+ score highly respectable, unlike the Indian system, where top scores may be 90% or higher.

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4. Step-by-Step Transition Strategy: Indian Candidates Should

To successfully get through the admissions process, Indian applicants should execute their timeline in this specific, orderly sequence:

  • A. Shortlist Programs & Check Eligibility: November - January. Use a trusted Ireland universities guide for Indians to enroll in your academically aligned universities. Ensure your Indian Bachelor's marks meet the entry requirements.
  • B. Clear English Proficiency Exams: December - February. Evidence of English-language proficiency is required by Irish colleges. Clear and plan your PTE Academic, IELTS (at least 6.5 overall), or TOEFL tests to get your scores.
  • C. Submit Applications & Secure Offer Letters: January - March. Submit your university applications along with your transcripts, Statement of Purpose, Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and test scores. Once accepted, pay your tuition deposit to lock in your seat.
  • D. Apply for Your Study Visa: May - July. Collate your financial documents demonstrating that you can support your studies. Indian applicants must apply via VFS Global for an Irish Study Visa, proving they have paid tuition fees and have access to emergency living funds.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are 3-year Indian Bachelor's degrees accepted for a Masters in Ireland?

Yes, many Irish universities accept a 3-year Indian Bachelor's degree (like a B.Com, B.Sc, or B.A) from a NAAC 'A' grade accredited Indian institution for direct entry into an NFQ Level 9 Master's program.


What are the main academic intakes for Indian students education in Ireland?

The primary and largest intake is the Autumn/Semester 1 intake, which begins in September. A very limited number of universities offer a secondary Spring/Semester 2 intake in January or February, primarily for specialized business or computing courses.


How does the Irish grading system compare to the Indian percentage system?

In Ireland, a score of 70% and above is a First Class Honours (equivalent to a distinction or 80%+ in India). A score of 60-69% is a Second Class Honours Grade 1 (2:1), and 50-59% is a 2rd Class Honours Grade 2 (2:2).


Can Indian students work while their studies in Ireland?

Yeah. According to immigration laws, overseas students enrolled in full-time higher education programs on the ILEP register may work up to 20 hours per week during term and up to 40 hours per week during the scheduled summer and winter holiday breaks.

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Nilanjana Shihn

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Trinity has been working with GoIreland for over 4 years now and we are very impressed with their work style as well as comprehensive understanding of Ireland as a promising study destination. They have been recruiting good number of high quality students for us every year. However, their key strength is to recruit students for some of our most competitive and niche programmes. GoIreland is undoubtedly one of our most trusted and successful agent partners.

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Mr Dermott Henry

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NUI Galway has been working with GoIreland for a number of years now, and they are an integral part of our trusted agent network. GoIreland assists our students along their journey to studying at NUI Galway, from the initial inquiry by prospective students for information on which is the best study program to help them realise their dreams and reach their full potential, right through to the time they depart home to travel to Galway. It is very important to NUI Galway that we work with agencies that offer the best service to our students, and by working with GoIreland we believe students will be supported properly throughout the process. We would have no hesitation in recommending GoIreland to any students wishing to study at NUI Galway.

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Vaidehi Garigapati

India Director, University College Cork

While our association with GoIreland is relatively new, we can confidently say that our partnership with them for our recruitment efforts will be one for the long run. The team is extremely professional and diligent, and we are happy to support their growth plans for India and other markets.

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Colum Cronin

Senior International Officer, DCU

GoIreland has been a respected partner of Dublin City University for a number of years sending numerous high quality students to study at the institution. Additionally we have always found GoIreland staff to be professional and well trained, and GoIreland has always supported students along their journey from initial application to departing India. At DCU we are happy to consider GoIreland a trusted agent.

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Amanda Noonam

International Recruitment Manager, UL

The University of Limerick (UL) has been working with GoIreland since 2019 and they form part of our trusted Indian Agent Network. UL would have be happy to recommend GoIreland to any Indian student with a desire to study in Ireland. The team of counsellors are very knowledgeable about the Irish education system and the programmes offered at each of the Irish Universities. UL is very pleased with the applications received from GoIreland and have a good working relationship with them.

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Agnieszka Kasprzak

Regional Recruitment Officer, TUD

My name is Agnieszka Kasprzak. I am a Recruitment Officer for India/South Asia in the International Office of the Technological University Dublin (TUDublin). If you are looking for a professional education advisor I would highly recommend GoIreland. GoIreland has provided an ethical and professional service in their dealings with both students and our University. GoIreland has an extremely strong level of expertise in the Irish education sector and visa process. We have been impressed with the quality of students provided by the agency as well as the academic standards of applicants. Students coming through GoIreland have achieved results surpassing our hopes and most graduated with honours and found a path to their dreams jobs.

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Binny Tangri

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GoIreland team has been fantastic to work with! We have been impressed by their hard work and student focused approach. They have particularly shined in the conversion rate of students from the time an application is received to the arrival of students in Ireland. One of the best things about working with GoIreland team is their caring and ethical approach to working with students supported by their market intelligence. The whole team has always been very warm and welcoming. I would recommend their services to anyone because they are attentive in their dealing with students, kind, and easy to work with!

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More Information about Ireland

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