Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 May 2011
277 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of international students registered with the Garda National Immigration Bureau and Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service in tabular form; the percentage of these students that attend English language colleges, further education colleges and higher education colleges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12691/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraInternational students studying in the State comprise both EEA and non-EEA nationals. Non-EEA nationals whose course of study exceeds 3 months are required to register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau. The number of non-EEA students currently registered with the Garda National Immigration Bureau is approximately 33,000. As some institutions may offer courses of more than one type, precise classification of the category of college attended is difficult. However, it is estimated that about 28% of registered non-EEA students attend English Language colleges, 30% Further Education, 38% Higher Education, and 4% other. Regarding EEA nationals, it is not possible to estimate the number of such students since, by virtue of their status within the EU, EEA nationals are not required to register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau. However, the indications from educational establishments would suggest that the numbers involved are significantly more than non-EEA nationals studying here.
