Student Life in Ireland

Top tips for Students to Study in Ireland

It can be overwhelming for you to begin education in a university/college, and with a little thought and planning the transition to third level can be exciting and refreshing. These 10 tips have helped students to make the transition.

• Be totally in charge for your study: The course structure in Ireland and even the timetable in colleges are very different. You may have to be more attentive and concentrate during lectures. Free time within the schedule should be used seen as an opportunity for study. You will always have time to planning and balance between socializing with friends afterwards.
• Be aware of deadlines.Make sure you finish assignments and submit them on time. Missing departmental deadlines could have an adverse effect on your overall year’s work.
• Go to your lectures: The academic year is usually taught over two semesters and includes lectures, tutorials, continuous assessment, laboratory work and final examinations. If you have the option of choosing from a range of subjects, try to attend the lectures of all the possible subjects.
• Talk to your lecturers: Being in a class of 200 can make you feel lost especially after you have experienced the close contact with your teachers in level 2. Whenever possible, try to talk with your lecturers to seek direction and advice.
• Join a few clubs and societies: When you join clubs and societies within the first few weeks, it becomes a lot easier to settle in and make friends. It could be a sport or activity you’re already interested in or something entirely new. It is essential to meet other like-minded students outside of the halls of study. This will expand your social circle and provide an opportunity for you to meet students from other courses across the college.
• Ask for help if you find yourself in difficulty: Most higher education institutions operate an open-door policy where students are free to pop in for a chat and advice if they are uncertain or feeling a little lost. It is essential to seek help and advice as early as possible if you find yourself out of your depth, whatever the problem.
• Manage your budget:  Plan your daily expenses well ahead and make sure you have enough to spend on rent, books, food, clothes and socializing. Part-time jobs and working as an intern can help you meet ends to a certain extent.
• Enjoy and have fun: University life is to be as it is a fantastic opportunity to broaden horizons, make new friends and explore some of the many opportunities that come your way. Get immense enjoyment from taking up a sport or joining a society that you never had the opportunity to experience before.

Work while study in Ireland

Working during your studies can be a great way to supplement your income and you can gain valuable life skills.Before you start applying for jobs, make sure that your visa has a stamp 2 which permits you to work in Ireland on a part-time basis.For most international students living on a student visa, the maximum number of hours that you can work is 20 per week. The number of working hours is restricted to 20 to make sure that there is ample time to study and to ensure that the focus remains on studies.

Student Discount Cards in Ireland

As an international student in Ireland, you can take advantage of discounts and savings that will make your finances easier to manage. Ireland has several discount cards that offer privileges when you make a purchase at participating outlets.

iConnect card: Ireland’s iConnect card gets a discount at a huge range of shops, hotels and retail outlets ranging from restaurants, accommodation to entertainment.

Student Leap card- this is Ireland’s travel card that also gets you great savings on mobile plans, shopping, discounted meals in McDonalds.

ISIC card: ISIC has been the mainstay discount card for international students offering exclusive discounts on huge range of products and services.