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Ireland University Rankings 2027: How Irish Universities Compare
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Ireland is a popular destination for international students, and Irish universities continue to climb the global rankings. In the QS World University Rankings 2027, six of Ireland’s eight ranked universities moved up, and Ireland now has two universities in the world’s top 100.
For international students, understanding how Irish universities compare is an important first step in choosing where to study. Use this page to see where every ranked Irish university places in 2027 and what each one is known for.
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Ireland University Rankings 2027
The QS World University Rankings 2027 were published in June 2026, ranking more than 1,500 universities worldwide. Trinity College Dublin remains Ireland’s highest-ranked university at 75th in the world, with University College Dublin close behind at 100th.
The rankings assess academic reputation, employer reputation, research, international outlook, and sustainability. The table below shows how all eight ranked Irish universities compare.
| Ireland Rank | University | QS World Rank 2027 | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Trinity College Dublin | 75 | Dublin |
| 2 | University College Dublin (UCD) | 100 | Dublin |
| 3 | University College Cork (UCC) | 220 | Cork |
| 4 | University of Galway | 275 | Galway |
| 5 | University of Limerick (UL) | 388 | Limerick |
| 6 | Dublin City University (DCU) | 408 | Dublin |
| 7 | Maynooth University | 721–730 | Maynooth, County Kildare |
| 8 | Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) | 791–800 | Dublin |
What Changed for Ireland in the QS Rankings 2027?
2027 was a strong year for Irish higher education, with six of the country’s eight ranked universities improving their position. Trinity College Dublin held 75th place, its strongest position in a decade, and appeared in the global top 100 for the fifth year in a row. University College Dublin entered the top 100 for the first time in more than 15 years, placing 100th. The University of Limerick also recorded its highest ranking to date, at 388th.
Rankings and Strengths of Each Irish University
A university’s overall position does not always reflect its strength in your chosen subject. Here is what each of Ireland’s ranked universities is best known for.
Trinity College Dublin Ranking
Trinity College Dublin ranks 75th in the QS World University Rankings 2027 and remains, by some margin, Ireland’s highest-ranked university. It performs particularly well for international faculty, international students, employment outcomes, and sustainability, where it ranks 29th in the world. Its city-centre campus places students at the heart of Dublin’s tech and finance sectors.
University College Dublin (UCD) Ranking
University College Dublin ranks 100th, entering the global top 100 for the first time in more than 15 years. It is Ireland’s largest university and one of its most globally engaged, with a large and diverse international student community. UCD is especially well known for Veterinary Science and business.
University College Cork (UCC) Ranking
University College Cork ranks 220th and is one of Ireland’s oldest universities, having opened in 1849. It scores particularly well for sustainability, supported by its student-led Green Campus Programme. Cork’s role as a centre for the pharmaceutical and biotech industries makes UCC a strong choice for science students.
University of Galway Ranking
The University of Galway ranks 275th and is known for its strong graduate outcomes, with 96% of graduates working or in further study six months after graduating. It sits at the centre of Ireland’s medical technology sector, making it a popular choice for biomedical science and engineering. Galway also offers a vibrant, coastal city lifestyle.
University of Limerick (UL) Ranking
The University of Limerick ranks 388th, its highest QS position to date. It is well known for its cooperative education programme, which builds work placements into many degrees. Limerick also offers a more affordable cost of living than Dublin.
Dublin City University (DCU) Ranking
Dublin City University ranks 408th and is a young, enterprise-focused university with strong links to industry. It is well regarded for business, computing, engineering, and communications. Its north Dublin campus gives students access to the capital’s job market.
Maynooth University Ranking
Maynooth University ranks in the 721 to 730 band and is located in Ireland’s only university town, around 25 kilometres from Dublin. It offers a close-knit campus experience with lower living costs than the city centre. Maynooth suits students who want a quieter setting within easy reach of Dublin.
Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) Ranking
TU Dublin ranks in the 791 to 800 band and became Ireland’s first technological university in 2019. It focuses on career-oriented, industry-linked programmes in areas such as engineering, architecture, business, and hospitality. Technological universities often offer lower tuition fees than traditional universities.
For a closer look at courses, fees, and campus life, see our guide to the top universities in Ireland.
How Do You Choose the Right University in Ireland?
A strong ranking is a good starting point, but the right university depends on your course, budget, and career goals. Key factors to consider include:
- University ranking: Trinity College Dublin and UCD offer significant global recognition and strong research profiles
- Subject ranking: Many Irish universities excel in specific fields, such as UCD for Veterinary Science and Business, or the University of Galway for biomedical science
- Location: Choose between Dublin, Ireland’s tech and finance centre, Cork, a pharma and biotech hub, or the coastal lifestyle of Galway
- Cost of living: Regional cities such as Limerick and Galway offer a more affordable standard of living than Dublin, where rent is highest
- Student support: Look for dedicated international offices, orientation programmes, and strong careers services
- Research strength: Postgraduate students should look for strong citations scores and links to Research Ireland (formerly Science Foundation Ireland) research centres
- International student community: A high international ratio means a multicultural campus and well-established support for students from abroad
Full Ireland University Rankings 2027 Table
Explore Ireland’s universities in the QS World University Rankings 2027 below. Select any university to view its full profile, including courses, entry requirements, and campus details.
Apply to an Irish University With StudyIn
Choosing between Ireland’s universities is easier with expert guidance. StudyIn’s counsellors help you compare institutions by ranking, subject strength, location, and budget, so you can build a shortlist that fits your goals.
We support you through the full application cycle, from course selection and offer letters to your study visa, proof of funds, and pre-departure preparation. Book a free counselling session to plan your application for 2027 entry.
FAQs
Which university in Ireland is ranked the highest?
Trinity College Dublin is Ireland’s highest-ranked university, placing 75th in the QS World University Rankings 2027. University College Dublin follows at 100th.
How many Irish universities are in the QS World University Rankings 2027?
Eight Irish universities are ranked in the QS World University Rankings 2027. Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin both rank in the global top 100.
Can international students work while studying in Ireland?
Yes. International students with Stamp 2 permission can work up to 20 hours a week during term and up to 40 hours a week during scheduled holiday periods, from June to September and mid-December to mid-January.
What are the post-study work opportunities in Ireland?
Eligible graduates can stay in Ireland to find work under the Third Level Graduate Programme (Stamp 1G). Bachelor’s (Level 8) graduates can stay for 12 months, while master’s and PhD (Level 9 and above) graduates can stay for up to 24 months, granted as an initial 12 months plus a 12-month renewal.
How much money do I need for an Ireland student visa?
You must show immediate access to at least €10,000 for living expenses in your first year and have paid at least €6,000 of your tuition fees, or the full amount if fees are lower. You also need access to €10,000 plus course fees for each subsequent year, and courses of eight months or less require €833 per month.
What is the average cost of living for a student in Ireland?
Living costs depend on your city and lifestyle, and Dublin is significantly more expensive than Cork, Galway, or Limerick, mainly because of rent. The €10,000 visa requirement is a minimum, so many students budget more, especially in Dublin.
How do you apply to a university in Ireland as an international student?
Undergraduate applications are made either through the Central Applications Office (CAO) or directly to the university, depending on the institution and your nationality. Postgraduate applications usually go directly to the university or through the Postgraduate Applications Centre. StudyIn can guide you through the right route for each university.