NI Connections

It’s that time again.  

August means UCAS deadlines and big decisions for many students across the world who are hoping to land a spot at their dream university.  
 
It can be a stressful time, but if you’re still none the wiser about where to head for your studies, we hope we can make your decision a wee bit easier.   
 
From world-class universities to vibrant cultural experiences, there’s a lot to love about studying in Northern Ireland.  

So without further ado, let’s dive into the top five reasons why you should consider studying at one of Northern Ireland’s fantastic institutions… 

Academic excellence

First things first – academic excellence seems like the right place to start. Northern Ireland boasts some of the best universities in the UK, and consistently rank in the top 200 universities in the world across 19 different subjects (QS World University Rankings 2024).  
 
And Queen’s University Belfast is a member of the prestigious Russell Group, known for its research-intensive programs and top-tier teaching. Whether you're interested in engineering, law, or the arts, Queen's offers a rich array of programs designed to push the boundaries of knowledge. 
 
Not to be outdone, Ulster University has a strong reputation for its innovative approach to teaching and research. It’s particularly known for its strong connections to industry, which means you’re not just learning from textbooks, but also getting real-world insights that will help you out in the big, bad world.  

And let’s not forget Northern Ireland’s network of six regional Further Education Colleges. Belfast Met, for example, is one of the largest colleges in the UK, offering a huge variety of courses and qualifications to help set you on the right path, whether you’re looking at vocational training or a stepping stone to a full university degree. 

The rich culture

Northern Ireland is a place steeped in history and culture. Studying here isn’t just about hitting the books; it’s about immersing yourself in a vibrant, diverse community. 

Our capital city, Belfast, is brimming with music, art and history. Take in tales of the Titanic at the world-renowned visitor experience, enjoy live music every night of the week, enjoy a drink in Ireland’s highest bar at the top of the Grand Central Hotel or take a trip up the River Lagan on a boat tour. You’ll never be stuck for things to see and do. Promise.  

Affordability

Let’s talk money. Studying in Northern Ireland can be surprisingly affordable. In fact, it’s the most affordable region for international students in the UK to live, work and study!  
 
Big ticket items such as rent are generally lower than in many other parts of the UK, meaning your budget stretches further.  
 
Accommodation, food, and even nights out can be reasonably priced – especially if you take advantage of student deals and incentives. Plus, many of Northern Ireland’s academic institutions offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help ease the burden.  
 
Have we convinced you yet?  

You can try something new

There’s more to university life than just lectures and exams. At Northern Ireland’s universities, there’s a huge emphasis on shaping your own experience and finding a balanced, well-rounded life as a student. 

You can join one of the many clubs and societies on campus. Whether you’re into rugby, table tennis or even Quidditch (yes, really!) there really is something for everyone. All of Northern Ireland’s universities offer state-of-the-art facilities where you can swim, climb, or try your hand at martial arts or cheerleading.  
 
Oh, E-Sports are more your thing? No problem. We’ve a whole blog dedicated to the subject here.   
Or if other activities such as treading the boards on stage or photography are more your thing there are student-run societies and volunteering opportunities in these areas too.  
 
Big Swifty fan? Then you’ve found your tribe – join the Ulster University Taylor Swift Society!   

A gateway to adventure

Last but not least, Northern Ireland’s stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for your adventures. We’re talking miles of rugged coastlines, numerous parks and lakes, and rolling hills by the bucketload.  
 
It doesn’t take more than few hours to get anywhere in Northern Ireland, but if you’re studying at the Ulster University campuses in Coleraine or Magee in Derry, you are just a short distance from the Causeway Coast and the famous Giant’s Causeway site.  

If you haven’t heard of the Giant’s Causeway, you must have been living under a (hexagonal volcanic) rock. It's world heritage site and area of outstanding natural beauty, and once you visit, you’ll see why.  
 
If you’re a fan of ‘Game of Thrones,’ many iconic scenes were filmed here, so you can literally walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters. Sure. where else would you get it?  

Fill your weekends with trips to picturesque towns or hikes in the Mourne Mountains. With everything so close by, you’re never too far from your next new experience. 

Want to find out more?

Choosing where to study is a big decision, but Northern Ireland so much going for it. It’s a place where students from all backgrounds can come to live and truly thrive. 
 
We’re also 4th in the world for international outlook (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024). And you can’t really argue with that.  

So why not take the plunge and consider Northern Ireland for your university experience? The University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) can help you find out more.