WHO IS “INTERNATIONAL” This is determined by residency, not nationality or heritage. Students who are not Irish/UK/EU/EEA or Swiss are defined as international. The majority of South African students, even if they have an Irish passport, will be classified as international students. An EU applicant is a person: who is ordinarily resident in the EU AND who will have received full-time post primary education AND/OR who has worked full-time in the EU for three of the five years immediately preceding admission. So, to qualify for EU fee structure as an EU passport holder at Irish public universities, you have to be resident for three years of the five years immediately prior to university. Private universities have liberty to set their own fee structures. Note that SA passport holders do not need a study visa to study in the Republic of Ireland! However, you must register at a local immigration office and get an Irish Residence Permit (IRP) if studying for more than three months. This requires you to have 3 000 euros in your bank account and proof of private medical insurance.
THE CENTRAL APPLICATIONS OFFICE OR (CAO) The CAO oversees undergraduate applications to colleges and universities in the Republic of Ireland with a mission to process applications fairly and efficiently for EU citizens. If you have not been resident in the EU, you likely will NOT be able to use the CAO and will need to apply directly to the higher education institution (HEI). It is important to check with the university or institution. There are agents in South Africa (e.g. Global Education) representing many of the Irish HEIs who can process applications, largely free of charge. Heidi Sulcas has worked closely with Education in Ireland and can advise on Irish unis and the application process.
USEFUL LINKS Coming To Study In Ireland Moving Country Registering Your Immigration Permission