Studying abroad is a real option and has many benefits that you may not have considered – it is a great way to see another country while gaining a qualification and meeting new people.
Anywhere in the EU!
Useful websites:
Erasmus+ for Higher Education Students allows students to study at universities in the EU member states for for between 3 and 12 months in a participating university or college. You can:
This can be a great opportunity for learning, both in college and in improving language skills, intercultural skills and in self reliance.
Contact the International Office of your university/ college to find out information on how to apply, deadlines and which universities and/ or countries your university is linked with, etc, More information.
You can choose to study at a university in Europe,
The languages you speak will determine the options you have available to you. However, there are also options for those who wish to study entirely through English.
See Studying outside Ireland to begin researching your options.
Be aware that fees will vary from place to place so it’s important
to do your research!
Application processes to universities across Europe differ
significantly. See University – Your Europe (europa.eu) for
information about the application processes.
Courses in many colleges or university are free or lower fees. For information regarding financial supports see Student Finance on the
Higher Education Authority (hea.ie)
Check in with the higher education institution you hope to study at to see what Erasmus+ options they have on offer. Ask the universities and colleges themselves at open days. This resource will help.
The key priorities for the new Erasmus+ Programme (2021-2027) are Inclusion, Digitisation, Green Erasmus, and Internationalisation. More information
The Maintenance Grant is the only funding available to eligible Undergraduate Students pursuing approved courses outside the Irish State. The fee grant is not available to students studying outside the State. The maintenance grant funding is available for undergraduate study only. The only exception to this is for students attending postgraduate courses in four approved institutions in Northern Ireland. Further information
Information on hundreds of potential scholarship and grants opportunities is available on Scholarship Portal. You can enter your home country and can search by country and discipline.
International Education Financial Aid offers a database of aid available for international students
Education UK is run by the British Council, and offers many grants, bursaries and scholarships to EU and non EU residents looking to study in the UK.
DAAD deal with scholarships/grants in Germany.
Financial and other supports are available to ensure access
for studying abroad. Speak to your college or university about
the supports that are available.
Additional financial support is available for students with
additional mental, physical or health-related needs.
More information
Ideally, the best approach when moving to another country is to know the language well before you go. To improve your skills or learn a new language. You may consider:
Learn how a foreign language can give you a competitive edge in your career
But remember many Europeans have a good knowledge of English so you will be able communicate even without another language!
The 10-level National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) is aligned with the European Qualification Framework (EQF) and the Qualifications Framework of the European Higher Education Area (QFEHEA). Alignment with these two frameworks makes it easier for you to compare qualifications across Europe. More information.
To find out what your options are…
We encourage all learners to check out the Europass platform and create your own e-portfolio! This aims to be your one stop shop for everything you need to know about studying and working in Europe.
As a core element of the European Learning Model the Europass platform has information on qualifications and learning opportunities across Europe More information
Good to know: That holders of digital credentials for learning can safely receive and store digital credentials with the Europass platform.
This card helps to make mobility easier, more efficient, and greener – from the application stage to the issuing of your study credentials. It facilitates access to student services across Europe.
The European Universities Initiative offers opportunities for students across different university campuses, for mobility and learning in new and innovative ways. Irish Higher Education Institutions are part of this, providing students with access to mobility, courses and projects with Higher Education Institutes in other countries
The European Universities Factsheet contains further information.
Ask your university, or those you are considering applying to, about their involvement and how you can become involved.
Much of this information has been compiled as part of a booklet ‘Europe is Open to You!’ providing information on European opportunities for young people including studying, training, working and volunteering.
Studying in the UK has a real option for many Irish students over the years. However, Brexit (Britain leaving the EU) has created a few changes with tuition fees and other costs. More information
Subscribe to our Connect2Europe newsletter to keep up to date with European opportunities, grants, events, useful resources and news.
Eurodesk Ireland
King’s Inns House
Parnell Street
Dublin 1 D01 A3Y8
Contact Us
E: eurodesk(at)leargas.ie
T: 087 1883748/ 01 887 1210
Erasmus+ is managed in Ireland by Léargas and the Higher Education Authority.
