Some may think it is expensive to seek higher education in a place like Galway, but there are several ways to successfully attend National University of Ireland, Galway. Don't panic, the tuition is nothing near a university in the States — try splitting that in half!
Leaving America and seeking higher education in Ireland is a huge benefit if someone is seeking experience abroad but doesn't know where to start.
As an American student, higher education add up to in hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt if you are not careful. The nice thing about an education abroad is that it cuts the overall tuition prices in half, or even more if you're looking at large US Universities.
A large gain is that you get experience on a global level, opposed to staying in the States and only getting a small taste of what the world of communications has to offer. Students get to emerge themselves into the culture of all Ireland has to offer; music, language, food and dance. These are experiences they get to bring to the professional world and they will stand out due to new adventures that other people in the professional world have never had to opportunity to see.
Also with a program at NUIG, it is emphasized that we get a unique perspective. With classes and projects relating to the political, financial and STEM fields, NUIG offers knowledge that other Masters programs may not have.
There are several ways to fund a higher education through NUIG. Financial Aid is a huge portion of how international students are able to afford the tuition.
Something beneficial to choosing NUIG is that they have an entire office that helps you with the process and and problems that may come up along the way. Visit the NUIG financial fund page here to learn more on how to apply.
Another beneficial way to fund living expenses and the travel is to apply for scholarships. There are so many scholarships for people looking to study abroad for their Masters. Some of the scholarships are even listed on the NUIG Financial Fund page as well.
When you enter Ireland, you have to apply for your Garda National Immigration Bureau Irish Residency Card (IRP Card). This costs about €300, but is your key into the country when traveling from other countries or if you spend time at home. There are some documents required to be granted the card and they are as follows:
Evidence of suitable finance or proof of access to €3,000. (Proof of confirmation of a loan or financial aid granted is acceptable)
Evidence of suitable medical insurance.
Your passport.
Registration fee of €300. GNIB only accept card payments and do not accept cash or cheque.
For any questions regarding the above requirements, how to go about the process of scheduling your appointment for a IRP Card, or any other requirements for entering Ireland, go to the Irish Immigration Website.
Although it may be daunting to be away from home for a year, a great way to get involved here while also helping the financials is to get a part-time job. The IRP card allows you to work 20 hours a week during the school year and then when outside of the school semesters, there is an ability to work 40 hours a week.
Make sure to check and see what the Euro to US Dollar rate is at the time you are considering attending NUIG.