Both Canada and Ireland are popular choices among Indian students seeking quality education abroad. Canada is renowned for its multicultural environment, globally ranked universities, and excellent infrastructure whereas Ireland, known as the “Land of Saints and Scholars,” offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage and high academic standards, particularly in fields like technology, business, and healthcare.
Ireland’s charm lies in its smaller, student-friendly cities with a focus on community and safety while Canada boasts larger, more diverse cities. Additionally, both countries have high-quality education systems, with degrees recognized globally, making them ideal destinations for international students. Let us see in detail in Canada or Ireland which country is a good option for Indian students based on different factors.
Table of contents
- Canada vs Ireland: Top Universities for Indian Students
- Top Courses in Canada and Ireland
- Cost of Living Comparison of Canada vs Ireland
- Tuition Fees Comparison of Ireland and Canada
- Scholarship Opportunities for Indian Students in Canada and Ireland
- Work Opportunities During and After Studies in Canada and Ireland
- Accommodation Comparisons in Canada vs Ireland
- Comparison of Admission Requirements for Studying in Ireland and Canada
- Visa Process: Which Country Has a More Student-Friendly Approach?
- Post-Study Work Permits: Canada vs Ireland
- Which country is safe, Canada or Ireland?
- Canada or Ireland: Which Should Indian Students Choose?
- FAQs
Canada vs Ireland: Top Universities for Indian Students
Both Canada and Ireland have a strong focus on research and innovation, making them ideal for academic excellence. Additionally, universities in Canada and Ireland offer a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs tailored to diverse interests.
The table given below focuses on top universities in Canada and Ireland along with the city where they are located and their recent QS World Rank which is provided to help students easily compare universities in Canada and Ireland:
| University | Country | City | QS World Rank 2025 |
| University of Toronto | Canada | Toronto | 25 |
| McGill University | Canada | Montreal | 29 |
| University of British Columbia | Canada | Vancouver | 38 |
| Trinity College Dublin | Ireland | Dublin | 87 |
| University of Alberta | Canada | Edmonton | 96 |
| University of Waterloo | Canada | Waterloo | 115 |
| Western University | Canada | London | 120 |
| University College Dublin | Ireland | Dublin | 126 |
| Université de Montréal | Canada | Montreal | 159 |
| McMaster University | Canada | Hamilton | 176 |
| University of Ottawa | Canada | Ottawa | 189 |
| Queen’s University | Canada | Kingston | 193 |
| University College Cork | Ireland | Cork | 273 |
| University of Galway | Ireland | Galway | 273 |
| Dublin City University | Ireland | Dublin | 421 |
Top Courses in Canada and Ireland
Canada and Ireland offer a wide range of popular courses across various fields. In Canada, popular engineering courses include Computer Science, Civil, Mechanical, and Biomedical Engineering. Whereas in Ireland, engineering courses like Civil, Mechanical, and Software Engineering are popular, alongside hospitality programs such as Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts.
Let us see the comparison of popular courses which Indian students can opt for in Ireland or Canada:
| Stream | Popular Courses in Canada | Popular Courses in Ireland |
| Medical | Nursing, Pharmacy, MBBS or MD, BSc Medical Radiation Sciences, Bachelor of Public Health | Dentistry, Radiology, Pharmacy, MBBS or MD |
| Engineering | Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, Civil Engineering | Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering |
| Hospitality | Culinary Arts, International Hospitality Management, Event Management, Luxury Hospitality Management, Tourism Management, Hospitality Management | Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management |
| Management | MSc in Management (MiM), Digital Marketing, MBA in Canada, Master of Human Resources, Master of Finance, Management Sciences | MSc in International Business, MSc in Entrepreneurship, MBA in Ireland |
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Cost of Living Comparison of Canada vs Ireland
Cost of living is a significant factor for Indian students. Canada may appear slightly more expensive than Ireland.The difference in cost of living in Ireland and Canada can often be mitigated through part-time work opportunities. Both countries also provide student discounts on public transportation and other services, making daily expenses more manageable. Below is a comparison of average monthly expenses in Canada and Ireland:
| Expense Category | Canada | Ireland |
| Accommodation | CAD 600-1,000 | EUR 500-EUR 900 |
| Food and Groceries | CAD 200-300 | EUR 150-EUR 250 |
| Transportation | CAD 80-120 | EUR 50-EUR 100 |
| Health Insurance | CAD 600/year | EUR 120/year |
| Miscellaneous | CAD 100-200 | EUR 100-EUR 200 |
Tuition Fees Comparison of Ireland and Canada
Canada and Ireland have varied tuition fees depending on the course and institution. Both countries offer affordable programs in public institutions and scholarships, making higher education accessible to Indian students. Financial planning and exploring funding options can significantly ease the burden of tuition costs.
- Canada: Annual tuition fees for undergraduate courses range from CAD 15,000 to CAD 35,000, while postgraduate programs cost CAD 18,000 to CAD 40,000. Fields like engineering and medicine may have higher fees.
- Ireland: Undergraduate fees range from EUR 9,000 to EUR 25,000 per year, and postgraduate fees are between EUR 10,000 and EUR 30,000. Courses in technology and pharmaceuticals tend to be more expensive.
Scholarship Opportunities for Indian Students in Canada and Ireland
Both Canada and Ireland provide various scholarship opportunities to Indian students. Applying early and maintaining a strong academic record increases your chances of receiving financial aid in Ireland and Canada. Some universities in both Canada and Ireland also offer need-based and merit-based scholarships specifically for Indian students.
The table given below highlights scholarship opportunities in both Canada and Ireland, catering to Indian students based on their academic achievements and financial needs:
| Scholarship Name | Country | Eligibility | Benefits |
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) | Canada | Doctoral students in social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, or health fields. | CAD 50,000 per year for three years. |
| Canada-ASEAN Scholarships (SEED) | Canada | Asian students pursuing studies or research in Canada. | Variable funding for tuition, travel, and living expenses. |
| University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship | Canada | Undergraduate students with outstanding academic and leadership qualities. | Covers tuition, books, and residence. |
| UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award | Canada | International students with excellent academics and demonstrated financial need. | Partial to full tuition coverage. |
| Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarships | Canada | Indian students and researchers collaborating with Canadian institutions. | Variable funding for research and education. |
| Mitacs Globalink Research Internship | Canada | Undergraduate and graduate students undertaking research projects. | Funding for research projects in Canadian labs. |
| Ontario Trillium Scholarships | Canada | Doctoral students with a high level of academic excellence. | CAD 40,000 per year for up to four years. |
| Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships | Ireland | Undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students with strong academic backgrounds. | EUR 10,000 stipend and tuition fee waiver for one year. |
| Irish Aid-funded Fellowship Training Programme | Ireland | Students from developing countries pursuing master’s programs in Ireland. | Covers tuition, travel, and living expenses. |
| Trinity College Dublin Scholarships | Ireland | Undergraduate and postgraduate students with academic excellence. | EUR 5,000 to EUR 10,000 towards tuition fees. |
| University College Dublin (UCD) Global Excellence Scholarship | Ireland | Merit-based scholarship for undergraduate and postgraduate students. | 50% to 100% tuition fee waiver. |
| NUI Galway Postgraduate Scholarships | Ireland | Master’s students with high academic achievements. | EUR 1,500 to EUR 5,000 towards tuition fees. |
| Dublin City University Scholarships | Ireland | International students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. | Partial tuition fee waivers up to EUR 2,000. |
| Maynooth University Scholarships | Ireland | Master’s and undergraduate students showing academic promise. | Variable funding for tuition and living costs. |
| Education in Ireland Regional Scholarships | Ireland | Indian students applying to Irish universities for master’s programs. | EUR 2,000 to EUR 5,000 for tuition fees. |
Work Opportunities During and After Studies in Canada and Ireland
Both Canada and Ireland have strong economies, and students often find work in retail, hospitality, and internships related to their field of study. Working while studying in Canada and Ireland can help offset living costs:
- Canada: Students can work up to 20 hours/week during semesters and full-time during breaks. Post-graduation, Canada offers a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to 3 years, allowing graduates to gain valuable work experience.
- Ireland: Students can also work 20 hours/week during terms and 40 hours/week during holidays. Ireland provides a two-year “stay back” option for international graduates, making it an attractive option for those seeking work experience.
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Accommodation Comparisons in Canada vs Ireland
When comparing accommodation options in Canada and Ireland, both offer a variety of choices at competitive prices. In Ireland, options such as Brickworks, located in Dublin, start at EUR 220.99/week, while Binary Hub and Highfield House are priced at EUR 234.99. In Canada, accommodation options like Harrington Housing-Waterfront near Toronto offer lower rates starting at CAD 210.00/week, while North York Residence costs CAD 224.98/week. Let us see a few accommodation options in both the countries which can be a good option for Indian Students:
Best accommodations in Ireland for Indian students are:
| Accommodation Name | Address | Price (per week) |
| Brickworks | Brickfield Lane, Dublin, D08 PFY5 | EUR 220.99/week |
| Binary Hub | Bonham Street, Dublin, D08 R596 | EUR 234.99/week |
| Highfield House | Marne Villas, Phibsborough, Dublin, D07 PC95, Ireland | EUR 240.03/week |
| Mayor Square | Mayor Street Lower, IFSC, Dublin 1, D01 K6W2 | EUR 245.00/week |
Best accommodations in Canada for Indian students are:
| Accommodation Name | Address | Distance from City | Price (per week) |
| Harrington Housing-Waterfront | 12 York Street | 1 km from Toronto | CAD 210.00/week |
| North York Residence | 371 Assiniboine Rd, North York, ON M3J 0A6 | 16 km from Toronto | CAD 224.98/week |
| Montreal – 1839 Lincoln Avenue | 1839 Lincoln Avenue, Montreal, Quebec H3H 1H5 | 1 km from Montreal | CAD 245.00/week |
| Montreal – 3555CH | 3555 Ch. de la Côte-des-Neiges, Montréal, QC H3H 1V2 | 1 km from Montreal | CAD 255.01/week |
| Montreal – 1955 Avenue Lincoln | 1955 Av. Lincoln, Montréal, QC H3H 0C7, Canada | 1 km from Montreal | CAD 275.03/week |
Comparison of Admission Requirements for Studying in Ireland and Canada
Both Ireland and Canada have similar admission requirements in terms of academic qualifications and English proficiency, the main difference lies in the application process. Ireland generally uses a centralized system (CAO) for undergraduate admissions, whereas Canada has decentralized application systems for each province or university. Additionally, both countries require specific course prerequisites for certain programs, and postgraduate applicants need to submit more detailed documents like SOPs, LORs, and possibly work experience for certain courses.
Here’s a comparison of the admission requirements for Ireland and Canada:
Ireland Admission Requirements:
- Undergraduate Programs:
- Academic Qualifications: Completion of high school (Class 12) with a good academic record.
- English Proficiency: Minimum score of 6.0–6.5 in IELTS, or equivalent in TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo.
- Specific Course Requirements: Some programs may require specific subjects (e.g., Math, Science) in high school.
- Application Process: Online application through the Central Applications Office (CAO) for most universities or directly to the institution for certain courses.
- Additional Requirements: Some programs (like Medicine or Law) may have entrance exams or interviews.
- Postgraduate Programs:
- Academic Qualifications: A relevant undergraduate degree (typically with a 2:1 or higher classification).
- English Proficiency: IELTS score of 6.5–7.0, depending on the program.
- Work Experience: Some courses (like MBA) may require professional experience.
- Application Process: Apply directly to the university or via the university’s online portal.
- Additional Documents: Transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LOR), and possibly a CV.
Canada Admission Requirements:
- Undergraduate Programs:
- Academic Qualifications: Completion of high school (Class 12) with specific grade requirements based on the program and university.
- English Proficiency: IELTS score of 6.0–6.5, or equivalent in TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo.
- Course Prerequisites: Specific courses may be required depending on the program (e.g., Math for engineering or science courses).
- Application Process: Apply online through university portals or centralized application systems like the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC) for Ontario-based institutions.
- Additional Requirements: Some programs may have additional criteria, such as interviews or portfolios (for arts-related courses).
- Postgraduate Programs:
- Academic Qualifications: A relevant undergraduate degree with a good academic record (usually a minimum GPA of 3.0–3.5 on a 4.0 scale).
- English Proficiency: IELTS score of 6.5–7.0, or equivalent in TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo.
- Work Experience: Some courses, particularly in business, may require work experience (e.g., MBA).
- Application Process: Apply directly to the university or via Canadian graduate application portals.
- Additional Documents: Transcripts, SOP, LOR, CV, and possibly a portfolio or interview, depending on the program.
Visa Process: Which Country Has a More Student-Friendly Approach?
Understanding visa requirements for Canada and Ireland along with preparing documentation in advance can simplify the application process. Both countries have streamlined visa processes which are listed below:
- Canada: Students require a Study Permit, which can take 4-6 weeks to process. Proof of GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) is mandatory. Additionally, students must show acceptance into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Ireland: Students need a Stamp 2 visa, with processing taking 4-8 weeks. You must demonstrate sufficient funds (€7,000/year) and proof of accommodation. English language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL are required for both countries.
Post-Study Work Permits: Canada vs Ireland
Both countries offer excellent post-study work options, but Canada’s longer permit duration often appeals to students planning long-term stays in comparison to Ireland. Let use see the difference between work permit in Canada and Ireland:
- Canada: PGWP allows students to work for a duration equivalent to their course length (up to 3 years). It provides a pathway to permanent residency, which is a significant advantage for international students.
- Ireland: Graduates can avail of the Third Level Graduate Scheme, enabling them to work for 24 months. This scheme also facilitates transitioning to work permits or permanent residency options.
Which country is safe, Canada or Ireland?
Both Canada and Ireland are considered safe countries, but there are some differences in safety that may influence your choice. Canada may be better suited for those who prefer a more diverse and larger-scale environment, while Ireland offers a slightly smaller, more relaxed atmosphere.
Let us see the comparison based on safety at Canada and Ireland:
Canada:
- Crime Rate: Canada is known for its low crime rates, with a generally safe environment in urban and rural areas.
- Healthcare: The healthcare system is publicly funded, and emergency services are accessible.
- Natural Hazards: Canada experiences extreme weather conditions (e.g., winter storms, extreme cold), especially in northern regions, but these are well-managed by the government.
- Cultural Safety: Canada is a highly multicultural society, known for its inclusive and welcoming environment, making it safe for international students.
Ireland:
- Crime Rate: Ireland also enjoys relatively low crime rates, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas. Major cities like Dublin may have some petty crime but are generally safe.
- Healthcare: Ireland has a strong healthcare system, though it may require health insurance for non-EU students to cover medical expenses.
- Natural Hazards: Ireland experiences milder weather compared to Canada, but occasional flooding and storms can occur.
- Cultural Safety: Ireland is also known for being friendly and welcoming to international students, offering a supportive and inclusive environment.
Canada or Ireland: Which Should Indian Students Choose?
Choosing between Canada and Ireland depends on your priorities. Research your options thoroughly to make the best decision for your academic and career goals. Both countries offer excellent opportunities, making either choice a worthy investment in your future:
- Choose Canada for better post-study work opportunities, a multicultural environment, and more extensive career prospects.
- Opt for Ireland if you prefer a smaller, close-knit community, temperate climate, and a rich cultural experience.
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FAQs
Canada offers a multicultural environment with globally ranked universities and a wide range of career opportunities. Ireland, with its rich cultural heritage, provides a more student-friendly, smaller city experience. Choosing between them depends on your preference for city life and career goals.
Some of the top universities for Indian students include the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia in Canada, and Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and University of Galway in Ireland. These universities are globally recognized for academic excellence and offer diverse programs.
In Canada, courses in engineering, medicine, and management are popular, while Ireland is known for technology, business, and hospitality management. Both countries offer high-quality education with globally recognized degrees.
While Canada tends to be slightly more expensive, both countries offer affordable living options, especially with part-time work opportunities. Ireland might be a better option for students looking for a more budget-friendly option while still offering a high quality of life.
In Canada, undergraduate programs typically cost CAD 15,000 to CAD 35,000, while postgraduate courses range from CAD 18,000 to CAD 40,000. In Ireland, undergraduate fees are between EUR 9,000 and EUR 25,000, and postgraduate fees range from EUR 10,000 to EUR 30,000, making both countries affordable compared to other study destinations.
Both countries offer various merit-based and need-based scholarships for Indian students. For example, Canada’s Vanier CGS and Ireland’s Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships provide generous financial support, making education more accessible.
Yes, both Canada and Ireland allow students to work part-time during studies and full-time during breaks. The opportunity to work helps offset living expenses, and both countries offer post-study work permits to gain further experience.
Canada typically requires high school completion with specific grade thresholds, whereas Ireland uses a centralized system (CAO) for undergraduate admissions. Both countries demand English proficiency, but Canada offers a more decentralized process with varying provincial requirements.
Canada requires a Study Permit and proof of a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), while Ireland requires a Stamp 2 visa. Both countries have streamlined processes, but Canada’s visa provides a longer post-study work option, making it more appealing for long-term stay.
Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows students to work for up to three years, which is a significant advantage for gaining work experience. Ireland’s Third Level Graduate Scheme allows two years, providing ample opportunities for international students to gain professional experience
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