 
Information on Education and Training Opportunities in Ireland
In Ireland, the Department of Education and Science. is responsible for the education system. Education is compulsory from age 6 to 16 or until students have completed three years of second level (post primary) education. Information on the system and developments in education can be found on the DES website.
The International Education Board Ireland was set up in 1993 by the Irish government to facilitate and support the development of Ireland as an International education centre. The IEBI responds to queries form overseas students regarding study options in Ireland.
Another source of information for overseas students is the Irish Council for International Students
Researching Higher Education Opportunities
The higher education or third level sector in Ireland is comprised of universities, technological colleges and teacher training colleges (colleges of education), also some non State aided private / independent colleges.
The following websites can be used to Search for Courses- PLOTEUS, Qualifax
Applying to College - Undergraduate Courses
Application for full time undergraduate degree or higher certificate courses validated in the Republic of Ireland are made through the Central Applications Office (CAO). The CAO provides a handbook and application pack lisitng all the courses available and how to apply. You can also access this information and complete your application online. Some higher education institutions require residents (past or present) outside the EU to apply directly to the institution. In this case applicants need to contact the institution directly regarding application procedures. Also if the education institution you have chosen is not part of the CAO system you need to contact them directly.
Post Graduate Courses
There is no central applications system for postgraduate study. Enquiries should be made directly to the relevant third level institution. For more information on postgraduate study see www.gradireland.com.
Costs
For EU students attending approved third level courses, the "Undergraduate Free Fees Scheme" implemented by the Department of Education and Science covers cost of tuition but does not cover the cost of registration, examinations and students services. For more information contact the Department of Education and Science. As a postgraduate student you can expect to pay tuition fees. You may be eligible for a grant. Again the relevant third level institution should be contacted or the Department of Education and Science.
Recognition of Qualifications
If you need clarification about ecuivalency of qualifications obtained outside Ireland, contact the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI)
 European Network of Information Centres/National Academic Recognition Information Centre
The ENIC/NARIC is a network of national centres created to help improve the academic recognition of international awards and facilitating the integration of national education systems. The NARIC Centre in Ireland is located in the NQAI.
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