Overview

A visiting student is a student currently registered at another university and applying to undertake a programme of study at undergraduate level for one semester or one year. A visiting student is not being admitted to a programme leading to a Degree, Diploma or any other award of the university.

An exchange student will also be considered as a visiting student. An exchange student is a student nominated under an exchange agreement that is in place between UCC and their home university. 

We have over 3,300 international students studying at the University during a typical academic year. They come from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures and do much to enhance and enrich life at the University.   Many of you will be some distance from home and we will do our best to ensure that your stay with us will be academically rewarding and socially enjoyable.

We hope you will find the information in this website informative and helpful. We are confident that your stay with us will be a fruitful one and that you will leave Ireland with fond memories of your time spent in University College Cork.

Karen McSweeney
Visiting Student Coordinator

 I love Cork because . . .

As the world turns its attention to Ireland for St Patrick’s Day, we take a look at what attracts thousands of students from around the globe to live in Cork and study at University College Cork.

In this article, UCC’s students from China, Honduras, India, Ireland, Kenya and the United States share why Cork was their first choice as a place to learn, live and thrive.

The quality of life is excellent

Racheal was born in Kenya and moved to America when she was 12 years old. She’s studying a Master in Public Health. What really set Cork apart for her was the excellent quality of life and her ability to travel:

“Cork is small and laid back. You have time to enjoy fun activities as well as study and achieve your goals. Cork is a well-connected city that is a gateway to Europe and beyond. I have had some great opportunities to travel from my base in Cork.”

You have access to world-ranked courses and leading academics in an international environment

Ambika comes from India. She is studying a Master of Science in Information Systems for Business Performance. UCC’s international reputation and word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family led her to Cork:

“UCC has access to world-ranked courses and top academics. It’s great to be part of an international community. My experience of studying and living in Cork has been invaluable.”

Cork feels like home

Juliet is half Colombian and half Lebanese.  She recently graduated with a Master of Arts in International Relations.  Juliet has lived in numerous cities, but what she loves about Cork is its warmth and friendliness:

“Cork is well known for its culinary delights. I love the variety of spices on offer at the English Market in Cork City. I have made really good friends here and what I really love most about Cork is that it feels like home.”

You will have access to a vibrant job market and excellent links with industry

Ashwini has relocated to Cork from India and is currently studying a Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics. For Ashwini, the main advantage of being located in Cork is having access to a diverse range of industries and a vibrant job market:

“I love Cork for its ease of access to employers and the job market. It’s the perfect way to start your career and enjoy a great quality of life.”

Cork is beautiful, the vibrant colours and diverse landscapes awaken your senses

Wanlin Li was born in China and is currently studying a PhD in Chinese Studies. Wanlin Li really appreciates Cork’s clean, green environment and being close to nature:

“Cork is beautiful. I love the vibrant colours and diverse landscapes. You feel close to nature here and it really awakens your senses.”

Cork is a hub of culture, history and adventure 

Jieyuan Xue comes from China and is currently studying a Master of Science in Finance (Corporate Finance). For Jieyuan Xue, Cork offers something for everyone – culture, history, entertainment and, of course, an excellent academic environment.

“I love the diverse range of things you can do in Cork - from arts and entertainment, to restaurants, beaches and outdoor activities - and studying of course!”

You will encounter a wide variety of people from different countries and learn from everyone

David was born in Honduras and is studying a Master of Science in Biology (Molecular Cell Biology and Bioinnovation). Cork’s green credentials and cultural diversity made David choose UCC:

“What I like most about Cork ifs that you enjoy fresh air surrounded by diverse landscapes in one of the world’s safest cities. I also appreciate the diversity - you can encounter different people from different countries and learn from everyone.”

Cork’s warmth, charm and friendliness is legendary

John was born in the USA and is currently studying a Master of Science in International Public Policy and Diplomacy. John was won over by Cork’s friendliness:

‘Cork’s friendliness is legendary. If you ever want to meet new people, you can head downtown and instantly find yourself among friends. I love that Cork is a historic and cosmopolitan city, with the warmth and charm of a small town.’

Corkonians have a good sense of humour

A Cork native, Tiarnán is a second year Undergraduate student studying a Bachelor Degree of Science in Biosciences. Tiarnán studied through the medium of Irish all through his secondary education at Colaiste na Phiarsaigh Cork. He loves Cork because it’s home.

‘The social scene here is great. Cork is full of great restaurants, bars and is home to plenty of festivals and events annually, the Jazz festival being my favourite. The people also play a part in why I enjoy living here. We don’t take things too seriously and have a good sense of humour.’