Choosing a destination to study abroad in the USA or Ireland can be challenging for students. Many Pakistani students consider these countries for their academic excellence and career opportunities.
When comparing Ireland vs USA, it’s essential to consider different factors like tuition fees, living costs, and job opportunities. USA offers a variety of top universities for international students, while Ireland offers global post-study work opportunities. Your preference depends on your budget, career goals, and academic culture.
If you’re debating USA vs Ireland, consider long-term benefits like job prospects and visa flexibility. The US provides global networking opportunities, but Ireland’s stay-back option appeals to many students.
Which is Better: Ireland vs USA?
Here’s a detailed overview of the Ireland vs USA comparison below:
University Rankings
USA has the top 25 universities ranking in the list QS ranking of top 100 universities. Ireland has one university in the top 100 but still offers a high-quality education. The USA leads globally with 197 universities that offer world-class education and a diverse environment.
Cost of Living
The USA has a higher Quality of Life Index ranking (12th) compared to Ireland (29th). Therefore, Ireland is more affordable for students than the USA.
Job Prospects
Ireland has a higher employment rate (73.8%) compared to the USA (60%). After completing graduation, students can benefit from jobs in Ireland.
Research Opportunities
Trinity College Dublin has five major research institutes and multiple research centers. MIT in the USA offers a collaborative research environment with over 5,800 researchers.
Top Universities in Ireland vs USA
Both countries have some of the top universities that offer quality education in a diverse environment. When comparing universities in Ireland compared to US states, it’s essential to consider their tuition fees and living costs.
| University | Country | QS World University Ranking 2025 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | USA | 1 |
| Harvard University | USA | 4 |
| Stanford University | USA | 6 |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | USA | 10 |
| University of Pennsylvania | USA | 11 |
| Trinity College Dublin | Ireland | 87 |
| University College Dublin | Ireland | 126 |
| University College Cork | Ireland | 273 |
| University of Galway | Ireland | 273 |
| Dublin City University | Ireland | 421 |
Admission Requirements for Ireland vs USA
Both countries have different admission requirements for a Master’s program. Admission criteria are based on the course, university, and government. The admission requirements for both countries, the USA and Ireland, are below.
Admission Requirements for a Master’s in Ireland
- A bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- English proficiency: IELTS score of at least 6.5.
- Proof of funds: PKR 13.2 lakh (EUR 4.2K) for financial support.
- A Letter of Recommendation (LOR).
- A Statement of Purpose (SOP).
- A valid student visa for Ireland.
Admission Requirements for a Master’s in USA
- A bachelor’s degree (3 to 4 years) in a relevant field.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 (65-70% or higher).
- English proficiency: IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.5 or above.
- GRE score of 290 or higher (varies by university).
- A well-written Statement of Purpose (SOP).
- Two to three Letters of Recommendation (LORs).
Cost of Studying: USA vs Ireland
Tuition fees of universities play a key role in choosing the correct country for studying abroad.
The cost depends on the country, university, course, and environment. Here’s the average cost of studying in Ireland vs USA undergraduate and postgraduate programs below:
| Study Level | USA (PKR) | Ireland (PKR) |
| Undergraduate | PKR 14.4L to PKR 1.47Cr | PKR 15.8L to PKR 1.44Cr |
| Postgraduate | PKR 87.9L to PKR 3.5Cr | PKR 30.6L to PKR 1.1Cr |
Cost of Living in Ireland vs USA
The cost of living in the USA is 5.9% higher than in Ireland. When you plan to study abroad, it’s essential to compare the cost of living USA vs Ireland to manage your expenses effectively:
Here’s a comparison of Ireland cost of living vs US in key areas:
| Aspect | USA (PKR) | Ireland (PKR) |
| Monthly Living Cost (Without Rent) | PKR 3.4L | PKR 3.1L |
| Monthly Rent (1-Bedroom, City Centre) | PKR 5.2L | PKR 4.9L |
| Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant | PKR 5.9K | PKR 5.2K |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | PKR 730 | PKR 640 |
USA vs Ireland: Student Visa Comparison
It’s an important step to getting a visa before you can study abroad. Here’s how the visa process compares for both countries:
| Aspect | USA Student Visa | Ireland Student Visa |
| Application Fee | PKR 53K | PKR 18.8K |
| Visa Processing Time | 16 days | 30 days |
Understanding the cost of living in Ireland vs United States will help you choose the best destination that fits your budget.
USA vs Ireland: Popular Jobs & Salaries
Regarding job opportunities, the USA and Ireland offer excellent career prospects for international students. The USA ranks 3rd worldwide for the highest salaries, while Ireland’s booming tech and finance sectors attract many professionals.
Top High-Paying Jobs in the USA
- Cardiologist – PKR 10.1Cr per year
- Anesthesiologist – PKR 9.4Cr per year
- Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – PKR 5.9Cr per year
Top High-Paying Jobs in Ireland
- Software Development Manager – PKR 3.2Cr to PKR 3.8Cr per year
- Finance Director – PKR 3.1Cr to PKR 4.1Cr per year
- Technical Architect – PKR 1.7Cr to PKR 2.8Cr per year
Both countries offer excellent job prospects, but the USA has higher salaries, while Ireland provides substantial opportunities in IT and finance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s difficult for students to choose between Ireland vs USA because both countries offer countless opportunities for international students. The good news is that graduates in both countries earn competitive salaries. In the USA, the average salary is PKR 2.7Cr per year, while in Ireland, it is PKR 1.1Cr per year. If you’re unsure which country suits you best, like study in Ireland or the USA, Universal Study Advisors are here to help. We offer guidance on program comparisons, university selection, and career advice to ensure you make the best choice for your future.
Maham Muneer is a passionate content writer with expertise in writing engaging blogs on education and study abroad topics. Her writing aims to guide readers in making informed decisions about their academic and international opportunities. Whether it’s exploring top universities, understanding visa processes, or finding scholarships, her goal is to provide valuable insights that inspire and empower students to achieve their dreams.
