Best Universities in Ireland for MBA: Fees, Requirements & Scholarships

Shiva-Krishna Shiva Krishna
Date 18 November 2025
Best Universities in Ireland for MBA:

Ireland has become a top study destination for international students seeking a globally recognized business education. The country offers high-ranking MBA programs, strong industry links, and excellent post-study work opportunities. 

For Indian students, an MBA in Ireland combines world-class learning with shorter study durations, affordable tuition, and a safe, welcoming environment. 

This guide covers the best universities in Ireland for MBA, their fees, admission requirements, scholarships, and job prospects. 

 

Why study an MBA in Ireland? 

An MBA in Ireland is a one-year full-time program that enables students re-enter the work market rapidly. The country speaks English and is home to big corporations like Google, Microsoft, and Pfizer. This makes it easier to get internships and jobs. 

For MBA in Ireland for Indian students, the combination of international exposure, shorter course duration, and post-study work visas makes Ireland an attractive choice. Students planning further opportunities can also explore options to study in the USA, study in the UK, or study in Germany after completing their MBA for broader career exposure. 

Top Universities and MBA Programs in Ireland 

Here are some of the institutions you should consider when looking at mba programs ireland. 

1. UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School (Dublin) 

UCD Smurfit is Ireland’s highest-ranked business school, listed among the world’s top 100 MBA programs. It attracts students from over 50 countries each year. 

Why Choose: 

Program Details: 

2. Trinity Business School, Trinity College Dublin 

Trinity has an MBA program that combines hard work in school with real-world assignments. It is noted for its emphasis on leadership, new ideas, and starting your own business. 

Why Choose: 

Program Details: 

3. Cork University Business School (CUBS), University College Cork (UCC) 

CUBS offers a leadership-focused Executive MBA that combines theory with practical business application. 

Why Choose: 

Program Details: 

4. Dublin Business School (DBS) 

DBS provides an affordable MBA program with flexible study opportunities for overseas students. Its programs focus on hands-on training and getting a job. 

Why Choose: 

Program Details: 

5. Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT) 

GMIT has low-cost MBA programs for people who work and run their own businesses. 

Why Choose: 

Program Details: 

6. Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) 

TU Dublin specializes in combining technology and management to get people ready for leadership roles in today's industry. 

Why Choose: 

Program Details: 

Budgeting for an MBA in Ireland 

Pursuing an MBA in Ireland is a smart career move, but it also requires careful financial planning. Below is a breakdown of the estimated expenses that international students, including Indian applicants, can expect while studying mba in Ireland. 

 

Overall Estimated Costs 

Cost Category 

Estimated Annual Cost (EUR) 

Approximate Annual Cost (INR) 

Tuition Fees 

12,500 – 36,500 

1,280,000 – 3,750,000 

Living Expenses 

10,000 – 15,000

1,020,000 – 1,540,000 

Accommodation             

7,200 – 18,000 

740,000 – 1,845,000 

Health Insurance 

150 – 500 

15,000 – 51,000 

Books & Materials 

500 – 800 

51,000 – 82,000 

Miscellaneous 

1,500 – 3,000 

153,000 – I07,000 

Total Estimated Cost             

22,800 – 77,500 

2,340,000 – 7,940,000 

(Conversion rate used: EUR 1 = INR 102.5 for estimation) 

 

Living Expenses Breakdown 

The cost of living in Ireland depends on where you live, what you do, and what kind of house you have. Dublin is the most expensive city, whereas Cork and Galway are not too bad. 

Category 

Annual Cost (EUR) 

Approx. Annual Cost (INR) 

Accommodation 

8,400 – 14,400

860,000 – 1,475,000            

Food & Groceries 

3,000 – 4,200 

307,000 – 430,000 

Transportation 

1,200 – 1,800 

123,000 – 184,000 

Utilities (Electricity, Internet, etc.)             

1,200 – 1,800             

123,000 – 184,000 

Miscellaneous 

1,200 – 3,000 

123,000 – 307,000 

Tip: If you live with roommates or in university housing, you can save 20–30% on rent and utilities. 

Looking for financial assistance? Contact our experts at Career Gyan

Entry Requirements and GMAT Waivers 

To apply for an MBA in Ireland, students typically need: 

Some universities offer mba in ireland without gmat if you have strong academic records or work experience. Be sure to review each school’s policy and apply early to qualify for scholarships. 

For those exploring global MBA pathways, you can also review our country guides for study in Canada or study in Australia to compare options. 

Need expert help? Connect with Career Gyan consultants for guidance on universities and visa support. 

 

Jobs and Salary after MBA in Ireland 

Graduates from the best universities in Ireland for MBA often find work in consulting, finance, and technology. 

Jobs in Dublin generally pay more due to the concentration of multinational companies. Your prior experience and networking also play a big role in post-MBA outcomes. 

Application timeline & practical steps 

Here’s a suggested step-by-step plan: 

  1. Decide your target schools (2-3 options). 
  2. Check deadlines (usually for intake in August). 
  3. Prepare CV (2-3 pages), essays (reflecting leadership, career goals), and letters of recommendation. 
  4. Take the English language test (if required). 
  5. If GMAT is required and you’re not exempt, schedule it; if you are seeking a waiver, prepare a waiver case. 
  6. Apply for scholarships through official university or government scholarship portals
  7. After offer: arrange finances (tuition + living). 
  8. Prepare for a visa (particularly for Indian students). 
  9. Once you are there, become involved in the career centre for internships, networking, and job searches. 

 

Conclusion 

Pursuing an MBA in Ireland offers global exposure, excellent academic standards, and strong job prospects after graduation. With one-year programs, leading universities like UCD Smurfit and Trinity College Dublin, and more affordable living costs compared to other Western countries, Ireland has become a preferred destination for Indian students seeking quality business education. For personalised guidance, Career Gyan supports students through its expert study in Ireland consultants services, helping you choose the right program, prepare your application, and navigate the entire admission process with ease.

If you need support with funding, Career Gyan provides student loan assistance through its trusted partner, (QCK Loans) one of the providers of the best education loan for abroad studies. Along with this, our team also helps you shortlist universities, prepare strong applications, and explore scholarship opportunities. Connect with our experts to begin your study abroad planning with clarity and confidence.

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