Irish Govt wants 50% rise in international students!

Wednesday, 22 September 2010
A new strategy to increase the number of international students coming to Ireland has been launched by the Government.
The aim is to increase international students in higher education by 50%, or 12,000, and in English language schools by 25% over the next five years. This would increase the value of this sector to the Irish economy by €300m to €1.2bn per year.

Ireland to be regarded as a world-leading provider of international education.

Following new regulations announced as part of a new government led strategy aimed at expanding international student numbers and generating €1.2 billion annual earnings, Ireland is set to be regarded as the world – leading provider of international education!

The key targets included in the strategy for 2015 include;
*          Increase overall international student numbers by 50% to 38,000.
*          Boost the number of English language students by 25% to 120,000.
*          Increase the proportion of full-time international students in higher education undertaking research or taught postgraduate programs to 35%, from 23% currently.

Speaking at the launch, the Prime Minister said "Our aim is for Ireland to be regarded as a world-leading provider of international education. This strategy and new student immigration regime sets out a shared vision for how Ireland can compete to the highest international standards and recruit talented students from overseas."

SELF FUNDED PLACES BY INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS SET TO BOOST THE IRISH ECONOMY

5th October 2010
The strategy published at the Government Building on 22nd September, 2010 by Taoiseach Brian Cowen, Tánaiste Mary Coughlan and Justice Minister Dermot Ahern, is to introduce new immigration rules to boost international student’s numbers in Ireland.
There has been assurance to Irish students that they would not be displaced by extra foreign students, as the places would be self-funded.