Indian student in Ireland warns against studying abroad on loans, cites challenging job prospects

An Indian student living in Ireland has shared a stark account of the challenges faced by international students, cautioning others against moving abroad after taking heavy education loans. The post, shared on Reddit, has sparked widespread discussion among aspiring students.

In his post titled, “The reality of Indians in Ireland: Do not move here with a student loan”, the student said he pursued a Master’s degree in Computer Science at the University of Galway and graduated in 2025. According to him, job outcomes for international students have been extremely poor.

He claimed that out of a batch of around 130 graduates, only about 15 were able to secure jobs in the tech sector, while the majority are currently working in non-technical roles such as supermarkets, restaurants and bars. He added that he managed to find employment only because he had nearly five years of prior work experience in London and Dubai before enrolling for his master’s degree.

However, even those who found tech jobs have reportedly not received visa sponsorship. The student said that none of the graduates employed in the tech sector have employer-sponsored visas, making their long-term stay uncertain.

He further claimed that more than 500 graduates from the same programme over previous years have already been forced to return to India after their visas expired, with many still struggling to repay their education loans. The situation, he said, has worsened after the Irish government increased the minimum salary threshold required for visa sponsorship, discouraging employers from hiring non-EU candidates.

Highlighting the financial risks involved, the student warned that those coming to Ireland on student loans face a high chance of default. He also cautioned that parents who act as co-sponsors could see their financial security threatened during retirement.

“Realistically, more than 95% of non-EU graduates are forced to leave Ireland within three years,” he wrote, urging prospective students to think carefully before making such a decision and advising them to consider staying in India.

The post has resonated with many Indian students abroad, reigniting debate over rising overseas education costs, visa uncertainties and shrinking job opportunities for international graduates.