Spiralling College Costs Force Irish Students to Abroad

Strategic Insights -

Students in Ireland are increasingly forced to choose between sacrificing their career aspirations or studying abroad due to the spiralling cost of higher education. The number of students heading overseas has seen a significant increase, with estimates suggesting around 4,000 individuals opting for foreign study each year. The points inflation in Ireland, which saw an average increase of 5.9% in required points across all courses, has made it nearly impossible for many to pursue their desired fields of study domestically. Student unions attribute the situation to the inability of students to afford accommodation, with some facing hours-long commutes or paying far higher rents than their European counterparts.

Key Takeaways:

  • The number of Irish students studying abroad is estimated to be around 4,000.
  • The points inflation in Ireland has led to an average increase of 5.9% in required points across all courses.
  • Student unions say the accommodation situation is worse than ever, with students facing hours-long commutes or paying far higher rents than their European counterparts.
  • The cost of accommodation in Ireland, particularly for rent-a-room schemes, is higher compared to other European countries.
  • Students from Ireland are taking advantage of low-cost or no-cost education options abroad, with some countries such as Germany offering generous student finance programmes.
  • The guidance counsellor has questioned whether the points system in Ireland is 'fit for purpose', suggesting that it puts students under immense stress.
  • Many students are showing increased levels of independence and resilience after studying abroad, and are returning home with employment-relevant skills.

Statistics:

  • Ireland ranks last out of 34 OECD countries for investment of GDP on education, spending only 2.8% of GDP.
  • The OECD average spend on education is 5.7% of GDP.
  • The cost of education in Ireland is expected to rise to €3,000 in the near future, compared to €200 per semester in some European countries.
  • Student unions have raised concerns about the increasing burden of student debt in Ireland.

Sources:

  • Eunicas (exact quote: "an agency that facilitates foreign study")
  • Guy Flouch, Head of Eunicas
  • Bryan O'Mahony, President of Aontas na Mac Leinn in Eirinn
  • OECD ( Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development)
  • MoS (Morning Politics)