Discover why Cork is the top choice for international students 
Often referred to as the “real capital of Ireland,” Cork is the second-largest city in the country after Dublin, offering an exciting urban experience with a more relaxed and affordable lifestyle. Cork’s reputation as a cultural, culinary, and academic hub makes it a favourite among Indian students.
Cork is a city – recognized by the European Commission as one of Europe’s top eight cultural and creative cities, it blends innovation with authenticity. Known as Ireland’s food capital, its 350+ artisan producers are a testament to the region’s deep-rooted connection to quality and community. But Cork is more than charm—it’s a city of serious opportunity. Ranked by Lonely Planet as one of the top 10 places in the world to visit
It hosts leading educational institutions like University College Cork (UCC) and Munster Technological University (MTU), while also serving as a powerhouse for pharmaceutical and life sciences, with industry leaders like Pfizer, Novartis, Eli Lilly, and Janssen operating here. In addition, Cork is a key base for global tech giants such as Apple, Amazon, and McAfee, creating exciting career prospects for graduates.
Choosing University College Cork (UCC)
Study at UCC means stepping into a world-class academic environment rooted in a legacy of excellence, innovation, and global student satisfaction.
Ranked among the top 2% of universities worldwide, UCC secured the 273rd position in the QS World University Rankings 2024, out of over 26,000 institutions—an achievement that reflects its academic leadership on the world stage. UCC remains the only Irish university to win The Sunday Times University of the Year award five times, including back-to-back wins in 2016 and 2017, a testament to its consistent performance and student-focused vision. Its academic distinction is further underscored by QS Top 100 subject rankings in Nursing, Midwifery, Pharmacy, and Pharmacology.
But UCC is more than its rankings. With over 17,000 student reviews, it has been recognized as one of the happiest campuses in Ireland, receiving the coveted Excellent International Student Satisfaction Award. It’s also proudly known as the safest campus in Ireland—and among the safest globally. At UCC, students don’t just pursue a degree—they immerse themselves in a supportive, forward-thinking environment that equips them with a global outlook and the confidence to thrive in the real world.
One of the most significant advantages of studying in Ireland is the clear pathway to work after graduation. As an international student, you’ll be eligible for Ireland’s Third Level Graduate Scheme, which allows you to stay and work for up to 2 years after completing your masters degree.
Many students use this period to gain valuable work experience with top employers in Dublin’s thriving tech sector. Companies like Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn regularly hire international graduates from Irish universities. The best part? You don’t need a job offer to apply for this visa – you can use the time to search for your ideal position.
After working for 2 years, you may qualify for a Critical Skills Employment Permit or permanent residency. The Irish government actively encourages skilled graduates in fields like data analytics to remain in the country long-term. This makes Ireland one of the most attractive destinations for Indian students looking to build an international career.