In 2007, 6 Irish institutions of higher learning were included in the top 500 universities in the world list by Times Higher Education Supplement (THES). The country also placed 8th place in the top 500 universities per capita. Academic status, world-class research, huge campuses situated in very accommodating environment and near key cities, modern faculties and amenities, innovating and excellent teaching and the list could go on forever? Below are some of Ireland's premiere universities ? especially for international students who are looking for more than quality education:

?Queen's University Belfast ? established by Queen Victoria in 1845, this institution prides itself with its international vision and commitment. It is a member of the Russell Group of top UK universities. One of Queen's students was recently recognized with UK International Student of the Year Award.

?National University of Ireland ? is a federal university and makes up the biggest component of the country's university system. It comprises of 4 constituent universities (UCD, UCC, NUI Galway, NUI Maynooth), 5 recognized colleges, and one college of a constituent university.

?University College Cork (UCC) ? founded in 1845 as Queen's College, UCC has about 2,000 foreign students from over 80 countries. The university continues to be a leading institution in research and has more than 120 degree and professional studies.

?University College Dublin (UCD) ? Ireland's biggest university with more than 1,300 faculty and 22,000 students. It has modern and lively campus community perfect for international students who want to feel home while studying in Ireland. It offers foreign students with various support services such as health care, accommodation, counseling and career assistance.

?National University of Ireland, Galway ? founded in 1845, it remains as one of Ireland's leading centers of academic excellence. Currently it has more than 2,000 foreign students from about 90 countries. NUI Galway has 7 faculties ? Arts, Celtic Studies, Commerce, Engineering, Law, Medicine and Health Sciences, and Science.

?University of Limerick (UL) ? located at the center of the 650-acre National Technological Park, UL aims to promote excellence in teaching and research. It has 4 constituent faculties ? Faculty of Arts, Kemmy Business School, Faculty of Education and Health, and Humanities and Social Sciences.

?Trinity College Dublin ? currently ranks 53rd in Times Higher Education Supplement Global University Rankings and 13th place in Europe. It has a very rich and exceptional history with its more than 400 years of existence as one of the world's best universities. It has state-of-the-art libraries, IT facilities, and laboratories. Its 3 core colleges are Arts, Engineering, and Health Sciences.

?Dublin City University (DCU) ? is the youngest degree-awarding institution approved by the Irish government. Despite this fact, DCU boasts of its ambitious vision together with is cutting edge research, exceptional interdisciplinary studies, personalized support and attention, employments prospects, and strategically-positioned and spacious campus.