Why Choose Ireland for Your Master's Degree?

"I always wanted to study abroad — but within a reasonable budget."

While pursuing his B.Tech in Computer Science (2015–2019), Harit researched multiple destinations for his Master's degree. The U.S. and U.K. were prohibitively expensive, while Ireland offered a compelling combination of factors that made it the ideal choice for Indian students:

• English-speaking environment: No language barrier, easier integration into academic and social life
• Strong tech ecosystem: Home to European headquarters of Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Apple
• One-year Master's program: Faster completion compared to two-year programs in other countries
• Manageable tuition: ₹10–20 lakhs total cost, significantly lower than US (₹50-80 lakhs) or UK (₹30-50 lakhs)
• Post-study work visa: Two-year stay-back option for job hunting after graduation

He enrolled at the National College of Ireland (NCI) for an MSc in Computer Science, a well-recognized institution in Dublin's tech corridor.

"Ireland had everything I needed — affordability, quality, and opportunity."

What Is Student Life Really Like in Ireland?

"Student life in Ireland is simple — but not easy."

The reality of studying in Ireland goes beyond tuition fees. You need to budget for accommodation (€500-800/month for shared housing in Dublin), groceries (€200-300/month), transport (€100-150/month), and miscellaneous expenses. Harit managed these costs through a combination of savings, part-time work, and family support.

However, part-time jobs available to international students are often physically demanding and low-paying:

"I worked as a kitchen porter — eight-hour shifts, tiring but necessary. You finish your shift exhausted, but assignments don't wait."

International students in Ireland can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during holidays, as per Irish immigration regulations. Common part-time jobs include retail, hospitality, food service, and warehouse work, typically paying €11-13 per hour.

Despite the challenges, Harit emphasizes that the exposure was life-changing:

• Self-reliance: Managing finances, cooking, cleaning, and time management independently
• Financial discipline: Learning to budget strictly and prioritize expenses
• Multicultural teamwork: Working with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures
• Professional networks: Friendships formed during studies often become valuable career connections

How Long Does It Take to Get a Job in Ireland After Your Master's?

"Getting a job abroad as a fresher is hard — not impossible."

This is the question every prospective student asks, and the answer isn't what most want to hear. Since Harit moved to Ireland with no prior work experience, it took him six to seven months of consistent job applications, networking, and interviews to land his first professional role.

"Experienced professionals might find work in 2–3 months, but for freshers, patience is key."

The job search timeline varies significantly based on your experience level:

• Fresh graduates (0-1 year experience): 6-8 months on average
• Mid-level professionals (2-5 years experience): 2-4 months
• Senior professionals (5+ years experience): 1-3 months

He joined TIBCO Software (Ireland) in May 2021 as a product engineer — a breakthrough role that launched his global career. The key factors that helped him secure this position were building a strong project portfolio during his Master's, networking with alumni, and demonstrating problem-solving skills during technical interviews.

For more insights on career transition strategies when returning to India, explore our comprehensive guide.

Should You Return to India After Working Abroad?

"When TIBCO went through restructuring, they offered me a transfer to India — with a good salary. I took it."

The decision to return to India wasn't driven by homesickness or failure - it was a calculated financial and lifestyle choice. When TIBCO Software underwent restructuring in 2022, Harit faced a choice: search for a new job in Ireland on a restricted work visa (Stamp 1) or accept an internal transfer to India with a competitive salary package.

Instead of making an emotional decision, Harit evaluated three critical factors:

• Purchasing power comparison: What his salary could buy in India vs. Ireland after accounting for rent, food, transport, and savings
• Financial parity analysis: Whether the Indian salary offer provided equivalent or better quality of life
• Lifestyle convenience: Being closer to family, familiar culture, and growing tech ecosystem in India

"My Indian salary offered nearly the same quality of life once adjusted for costs — so returning made complete sense."

In January 2023, he relocated to Pune, continuing with the same company before later joining a U.S.-based remote role. This transition demonstrates that returning to India doesn't mean sacrificing your global career - it means leveraging your international experience in a market with lower living costs and higher growth potential.

If you're planning your return, our Financial Transition Blueprint provides step-by-step guidance on salary negotiation, tax planning, and financial optimization.

Ireland vs India Job Market: Which Is Better for Tech Professionals?

"In Ireland, interviews come faster. In India, competition is tougher."

Having worked in both countries, Harit offers a nuanced comparison that goes beyond salary numbers. The job markets in Ireland and India operate differently, and understanding these differences is crucial for making informed career decisions.

Job Search and Interview Process Comparison

"Ireland gave me global exposure — India gives me scale and growth."

He notes that top-tier tech companies like Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Stripe have offices in Ireland, but most development work is outsourced to U.S. or India-based teams. Ireland offices primarily handle sales, support, and regional operations.

"If you want cutting-edge projects, India still has more development opportunities."

For professionals considering returning to India after working abroad, understanding these market dynamics is essential for setting realistic expectations.

What Should Students Know Before Studying Abroad?

"If you're going abroad just for salary, rethink. Go for exposure — not quick money."

Harit's advice for students and early-career professionals is grounded in real experience, not marketing brochures. Here's what you need to know before making the decision to study abroad:

Realistic Expectations by Experience Level

• Fresh graduates (no work experience): Expect 6–8 months to land your first job abroad. Build a strong project portfolio during your Master's program - GitHub contributions, personal projects, and internships matter more than grades.
• Experienced professionals (2+ years): Job search is significantly easier with 2-4 month timelines. Your work experience makes you more attractive to employers and eligible for higher salaries.
• Financially secure students: If your family can support you without part-time work, focus on internships and networking instead. Internships often convert to full-time offers.
• Self-funded students: Budget for at least 12-18 months of expenses. Part-time work helps but won't cover everything, and it's physically exhausting.

Red Flags to Avoid

• Don't fall for shortcuts: "Free visa" or "sponsored migration" ads are mostly scams. Legitimate immigration follows official government channels.
• Avoid education loan traps: Only borrow what you can realistically repay within 3-5 years based on expected starting salaries.
• Don't chase rankings blindly: A lower-ranked university with strong industry connections is better than a top-ranked university with no placement support.
• Don't ignore visa restrictions: Understand work permit rules, post-study visa duration, and pathways to permanent residency before enrolling.

"There's no shortcut to success — only strategy and consistency."

For comprehensive guidance on financial planning for studying abroad and returning to India, explore our detailed resources.

7️⃣ Moving Back — Why Pune Worked

"The relocation was quick — I had no house or car abroad, just two suitcases."

He chose Pune for its weather, cost of living, and job ecosystem.

"It's less chaotic than Bangalore but equally vibrant."

Family remains in Patna, while he and his wife have settled in Pune — working remotely and enjoying a balanced lifestyle.

Ireland vs India Salary Comparison: What's the Real Difference?

"In India, my pay is almost equivalent when adjusted for cost of living."

The salary comparison between Ireland and India isn't straightforward. While Irish salaries appear higher in absolute terms, the real purchasing power tells a different story. Here's a detailed breakdown based on Harit's experience:

The key insight: After accounting for taxes, rent, and living expenses, a ₹10-12 LPA salary in Pune provides similar savings and quality of life as a €38-40K salary in Dublin. This is why many professionals are choosing to return to India with global experience rather than staying abroad indefinitely.

"Abroad gives structure, India gives speed. Both have value — choose based on your stage of life."

For detailed guidance on tax planning when returning to India, including how to optimize your salary structure and claim exemptions, check our comprehensive guide.

9️⃣ What He Misses About Ireland

"Clean air, disciplined traffic, and people who follow rules — those things stand out."

But he also points out that such discipline starts with individuals, not governments.

"We keep blaming the system, but it's our responsibility to respect it."

He misses Europe's calm but doesn't regret returning:

"India may be chaotic, but it's alive — that's what I love about it."

🔟 Lessons for Aspiring Students & Returnees

• Go abroad with clarity, not curiosity.
• Budget realistically — it's not cheap, but it's worth it.
• Network relentlessly — jobs abroad come through connections.
• Avoid herd mentality — choose what fits your goals.
• Returning isn't failure — it's a continuation of growth.

Join Desi Return's Inner Circle Community →

Related Articles You Might Find Helpful

Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in Ireland and Returning to India