Visa questions
What documents, funds, and timelines are needed for Ireland, UK, Australia, Canada and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Honest answers to the questions students ask most ? visa, courses, costs, English tests and more.
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FAQs
Below are answers to the most common questions students and families ask Student Matters. For a personalised answer about your specific situation, book a free consultation: +353 899 55 77 44 ? info@studentmatter.net.
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Why students choose this support
Course and university questions
How to shortlist, compare and apply to the right programme for your profile.
Cost questions
Realistic tuition, living costs and funds evidence requirements.
After-study questions
Post-study work rights, employment permits and residency pathways.
Guide · 01
Visa and immigration
Common questions about study visa applications across all destinations.
- Can SM guarantee my visa? ? No. No ethical agency can guarantee visa approval. We help you build the strongest honest file.
- How much funds do I need for Ireland? ? Typically tuition + ?7,000-10,000 per year living costs. Exact thresholds ? ask your counsellor for your specific profile.
- Does a refusal affect my new application? ? Yes, it must be declared. A well-handled refusal explanation can overcome this ? a concealed one cannot.
- How long does the Irish visa take? ? AVATS online visa typically 4-8 weeks. IRP registration after arrival.
- UK Student Route ? do I need UKVI IELTS? ? Sometimes. Depends on sponsor type. Ask SM to confirm before booking.
- Can I bring my spouse? ? Depends on destination and course level. Ireland: not standard on Stamp 2. UK PG: yes. Canada: open work permit for spouse often available.
Guide · 02
Courses and universities
Common questions about choosing the right programme and institution.
- How do I choose between Ireland and UK? ? Depends on course, costs, post-study plans and profile. SM compares both in the first session.
- What IELTS score do I need? ? Typically 6.0-6.5 for UG; 6.5 for PG. Competitive courses (medicine, law) need 7.0+.
- Can I study in Ireland with a 2:2 degree? ? Many courses accept 2:2. Some competitive programmes need 2:1+. We check per course.
- Are private colleges in Ireland credible? ? Some are fully accredited and ILEP-listed. Others are not suitable for serious career visas. SM only recommends credible institutions.
- What is the difference between Level 7 and Level 8? ? NFQ levels in Ireland. Level 8 = full honours bachelor's. Level 7 = ordinary bachelor's. Both on the Irish National Framework.
Guide · 03
Costs and funding
Common questions about managing the financial side of study abroad.
- What does a degree in Ireland cost? ? Typically EUR 10,000-18,000/year for postgraduate. UG varies. Living costs add EUR 10,000-15,000/year.
- Are there scholarships for Pakistani / Bangladeshi students? ? Yes. Government of Ireland, Chevening, DAAD, university merit awards. See our scholarships guide.
- Can I work while studying in Ireland? ? Yes, 20 hrs/week during term, 40 hrs during holidays on Stamp 2.
- How much should I show in my bank statement? ? Tuition + living funds for the course duration. SM advises based on your destination and visa authority.
Need personalised help?
Frequently Asked Questions
All FAQsThe total cost typically includes tuition fees and living expenses. Example (Ireland): for a one-year Master's at Dublin Business School costing €14,500, with ~€10,000 living expenses, your total estimated cost is about €24,500. Undergraduate Ireland: €9,000–€15,000/year · Postgraduate: €10,000–€35,000/year · Living: ~€10,000–€12,000/year. Costs differ for UK, Australia, Canada, Germany and USA — ask us for a personalised estimate.