Canada vs Ireland: Which Country is Best for Indian Students?

Jemima Sultana

7 min read

Updated On May 25, 2025

Canada vs Ireland: Which Country is Best for Indian Students?

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Canada vs Ireland: Which is Better for Indian Students?
Top Universities in Canada vs Ireland
Intakes in Canada vs Ireland for Indian Students
Canada vs Ireland: Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
Cost of Studying in Canada vs Ireland
Cost of Living in Canada vs Ireland: Which is Better for Indian Students?
Scholarships in Canada vs Ireland for Indian Students
Canada vs Ireland: Which is Better for the Student Visa Process?
Navigate Your Study Abroad Journey with GetGIS

When comparing Canada vs Ireland for Indian students, both countries offer globally ranked universities, post-study work options, and a welcoming atmosphere. Canada hosts over 1 million international students, with Indian nationals making up approximately 37% of this population. Ireland has also seen a 15% surge in international students for 2023–24, with India leading the growth with a 50% rise in enrolments.

This blog will break down the key factors Indian students should consider before choosing between the two countries. Get insights on education quality, tuition and living expenses, post-study work options, and immigration prospects of both countries. By the end, you’ll have a clearer view of which destination aligns better with your academic and career goals.

Canada vs Ireland: Which is Better for Indian Students?

Choosing between Canada and Ireland can be challenging for Indian students aiming for a global education. Here's a quick overview highlighting key aspects of the two countries, like tuition, post-study work options, and living costs. This will help you begin evaluating which destination better suits your goals.

Particulars	Canada	Ireland
Duration of Studies	Undergraduate: 4 years Postgraduate: 1–2 years PhD: 3+ years	Undergraduate: 3–4 years Postgraduate: 1 year PhD: 3+ years
Average Tuition Fees (Annual)	15,000 - 80,000	€10,000 - €30,000
Monthly Living Expenses	$1,200 - $1,800	€1,000 - €1,500
Post-Study Work Permit Duration	Up to 3 years	Up to 2 years
Pathway to Permanent Residency	Generally faster through Express Entry	Longer process and eligibility requirements
Employment Opportunities	High demand in IT, Engineering, and Healthcare sectors	Expanding opportunities in the Pharma, Finance, and IT sectors
Availability of Scholarships	Various scholarships from the government and universities	Multiple grants are offered by the Irish government and universities
Work Hours During Study	Part-time: 24 hours/week Full-time during vacations	Part-time: 20 hours/week 40 hours during vacations

Also Read: Top 8 Benefits of Studying Abroad for Indian Students

Top Universities in Canada vs Ireland

Canada and Ireland both boast reputable universities that attract thousands of Indian students every year. These institutions are known for their quality education, research opportunities, and strong industry connections. Here are some of the top universities in Canada and Ireland to consider for your studies abroad.

Universities in Canada

Canada has a vast higher education landscape, with 223 public and private universities and 213 public colleges and institutes across the country, with 3 universities ranking among the top 50 in the QS Rankings 2025. The education system in Canada is known for its high standards, offering flexible undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. Here is a list of the top universities in Canada that Indian students can consider.

University	QS Ranking 2025
University of Toronto	25
McGill University	29
University of British Columbia (UBC)	38
University of Alberta	96
University of Waterloo	115
Western University	120
Université de Montréal	159
McMaster University	176
University of Ottawa	189
Queen's University	193
Dalhousie University	275

Also Read: Top Universities in Canada for masters for International Students 2025

Universities in Ireland

Ireland is home to a dynamic higher education system known for its innovation, research, and industry links. The country offers 28 universities and colleges catering to international students, with one institution ranked among the top 100 globally. Explore some of the top universities in Ireland preferred by Indian students below.

University	QS Ranking 2025
Trinity College Dublin	87
University College Dublin (UCD)	126
University College Cork	273
University of Galway	273
Dublin City University	421
University of Limerick	421
Maynooth University	801-850
Technological University Dublin	851-900

Explore: Top 10 Universities in Ireland for Masters in 2025

Intakes in Canada vs Ireland for Indian Students

Understanding the intake seasons is essential for Indian students planning to study abroad. Canada and Ireland offer multiple admission cycles, each with its own benefits and deadlines. Here are the main intakes available in both countries.

Intakes in Canada

Canada offers three major intakes for international students: Fall, Winter, and Summer. Each intake comes with different deadlines, course availability, and admission competition. Here is an overview of the main intakes in Canada.

Canada Intake	Course	Admission Duration
Fall Intake	Undergraduate and Postgraduate programs	September - January
Winter	Undergraduate and Postgraduate programs Degree/diploma programs	January - April
Summer	Undergraduate and Postgraduate programs Diploma/Certificate program	May - August

Quick Read: Fall, Winter and Summer Intakes in Canada for 2024-25

Intakes in Ireland

Irish universities offer two primary intakes that align with academic calendars and international admission cycles. These intakes provide flexibility for Indian students to apply based on their preparation and course availability.

Ireland Intake	Course	Admission Duration
Autumn	Undergraduate and Postgraduate programs	June - September
Spring	Undergraduate and Postgraduate programs	September - January
Rolling Intake	Short courses/Part-time Study Options	All Year Round

Also Explore: Ireland Intakes 2025 - 2026: Everything You Need To Know

Canada vs Ireland: Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students

Meeting the eligibility requirements is a crucial step for Indian students aiming to study in Canada or Ireland. While both countries share some basic criteria, there are distinct differences in academic and language prerequisites. Explore the key eligibility requirements for each destination in the table below.

Eligibility Requirements in Canada	Eligibility Requirements in Ireland
Completed secondary education or equivalent.	Completed secondary education or equivalent.
Minimum English proficiency: IELTS score of 5.5 – 6.0 or equivalent.	Minimum English proficiency: IELTS score of 6.0 – 6.5 or equivalent.
Standardised test scores like GRE (320-340) or GMAT (550) may be required, depending on the program and university.	Standardised test scores are not required for most undergraduate programs; GRE (310 - 320), GMAT (550 - 630), or LSAT may be needed for some graduate programs.

Also Read: Which is the Better Study Destination: Germany or Ireland?

Cost of Studying in Canada vs Ireland

The overall cost of studying varies depending on the course and level of study in each country. Canada and Ireland offer diverse programs with differing tuition ranges for undergraduate, postgraduate, and other degrees. Here is an overview of the average tuition fees for major courses in both countries.

Course Type	Average Annual Tuition Fees in Canada	Average Annual Tuition Fees in Ireland
Undergraduate (STEM)	CAD 15,000 - CAD 40,000	€13,000 - €35,000
Undergraduate (Business & Finance)	CAD 12,000 - CAD 35,000	€12,000 - €32,000
Undergraduate (Healthcare & Medicine)	CAD 30,000 - CAD 55,000	€30,000 - €60,000
Master’s (STEM)	CAD 18,000 - CAD 45,000	€17,000 - €40,000
Master’s (Business & Finance)	CAD 20,000 - CAD 50,000	€20,000 - €45,000
Master’s (Healthcare & Medicine)	CAD 35,000 - CAD 70,000	€35,000 - €75,000

Also Read: Cost of Studying in Canada for Indian Students in 2025

Cost of Living in Canada vs Ireland: Which is Better for Indian Students?

The average cost of living in Canada for a single person is about CAD 1,452. The cost of living in Ireland is around €980. The cost of living in both countries is quite similar. Both Canada and Ireland provide a high quality of life, each with its own distinct advantages for those choosing to study abroad.

Factor	Average Cost (Monthly)	Average Cost (Monthly)
Accommodation	$800	€600.00
Education Expenses	$15,000 - $35,000	€19000 - €27000
Transportation	$80 - $110	€65 - €85
Food and Groceries	$200 - $400	€250 - €350
Utilities (including internet)	$100 - $200	€80 - €120
Entertainment	$100 - $200	€10 - €50

Scholarships in Canada vs Ireland for Indian Students

Scholarships are an excellent means for Indian students to alleviate the financial burden of studying abroad. Below are the top scholarships for Indian students in Canada and Ireland that have various types, such as government, fully-funded scholarships, and more.

Scholarship & Funds in Canada	Scholarship & Funds in Ireland
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships - $50,000	Government of Ireland Scholarships - €10,000
Canada-ASEAN SEED - $10,200	The Walsh Fellowships - €22,000
Ontario Trillium Scholarship - $40,000	Fulbright Scholarships - up to €15,000
Canadian Studies Post-Doctoral Fellowship - $2,500 per month	Centenary Scholarship Program - 1 yr tuition fee
Quebec Government Scholarship - $25,000 for PhD	Central Bank of Ireland UG Scholarships - Tuition Fees

Explore: Best Scholarships in Ireland in 2025: Types, Eligibility & More

Canada vs Ireland: Which is Better for the Student Visa Process?

When preparing to study abroad, understanding student visa requirements is crucial. If you're deciding is Ireland better than Canada, it's vital to familiarize yourself with the respective processes.

In Canada, international students must apply for a study permit, whereas in Ireland, they need a student visa (D visa). Below is a detailed comparison

Factors	Canada	Ireland
Visa	Study Permit	Student Visa (D visa)
Cost	CAD 150	€300
Processing Time	90 days	4-8 weeks
Documents Required	Valid Passport	Valid Passport
	Proof of Acceptance	Proof of Acceptance
	Proof of Funds	Proof of Funds
	Passport Size Photographs	Passport Size Photographs
	Immigration Medical Examination (IME)	Gap Year Certificate (if any)
	English Language Proficiency Exam Score	Medical Insurance
	Statement of Purpose	English Language Proficiency Exam Score
	Provincial Nomination Letter (if applicable)	Statement of Purpose

Check Out: Canada Student Visa (2025): Requirements, Process & Fees

Navigate Your Study Abroad Journey with GetGIS

When weighing the options between Canada vs Ireland, which is better for pursuing higher education, Indian students are presented with a plethora of opportunities and considerations. Both countries boast esteemed universities, vibrant cultures, and promising job prospects, albeit with their own distinct advantages.

For tailored guidance and seamless visa assistance, consider leveraging services like GetGIS, where study abroad counsellors and immigration experts ensure your application process is smooth and successful. With the right support, your dream of studying abroad in either Canada or Ireland can become a reality, enriching your academic and personal growth in profound ways.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do international students need IELTS to study in Canada vs Ireland?

Yes, both countries require international students to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS. Some universities in Canada and Ireland also accept alternative tests such as TOEFL and PTE.

Which country's weather conditions are better in Canada vs Ireland?

Ireland's weather conditions are better, Canada is renowned for its harsh winters, contrasting with Ireland's milder climate and higher precipitation.

Is Canada safer than Ireland?

Yes, Canada ranks 6th on the Global Peace Index's list of the top 10 safest countries globally. Ireland does not make the top 10, which excludes other major countries like the USA, UK, France, and Australia.

Ireland vs Canada, Which is better for a master's degree?

If you prioritize globally renowned universities and pathways to permanent residency, Canada is an excellent choice. It boasts top-ranked institutions, lower costs compared to Ireland, and immigration policies. On the other hand, Ireland hosts prestigious universities amidst a thriving economy, making it a compelling option depending on your field of study and specific academic preferences.

What are the post-study work opportunities for Indian students in Canada vs Ireland?

Both countries provide opportunities for international students to work after graduation. In Canada, students can apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to work for up to 3 years based on their study program duration. Meanwhile, in Ireland, graduates can avail of the 3rd Level Graduate Scheme, enabling them to work for up to 2 years after their studies.