With the help of its world-class universities, dynamic cities and beautiful scenery, Ireland is an increasingly popular study destination. More international students than ever are coming here for a top-quality education and so much more.
If you aim to join them, you'll need to prepare – and that includes completing the all-important application process. It might sound difficult, but we can make it simpler. Read on as we explain how to apply to study in Ireland.
Universities in Ireland
Ireland is home to eight universities, as well as five technological universities and two institutes of technology. At each one, students can earn undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral degrees. These are globally recognised and often less expensive than ones in other English-speaking countries.
Perhaps most famous are the universities in Dublin. Students at institutions such as Trinity College get a world-class education while enjoying the vibrant capital city. But if you'd prefer somewhere smaller, there are plenty of alternatives. Universities in Cork, Galway and Limerick also offer excellent programmes and student lifestyles.
Discover the top universities in Ireland.
The application process
How you apply to university in Ireland depends on where you are from and your level of study.
Undergraduate applications
If you are a citizen of Ireland, the UK, or a country in the European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA), you should apply using the CAO portal.
This requires you to fill in some personal details, select your desired course(s) and attach relevant documents. You'll also need to pay a fee of EUR 50 (or EUR 35 if you apply early).
If you are not a citizen of Ireland, the UK, or a country in the European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA), universities will take your application separately.
Each institution has its own approach to this, which their international office will be able to explain. You might have to complete an application form on the university website, or may be encouraged to apply through an approved agent. In either case, you will need to provide a range of documents and information.
While application systems, requirements and deadlines vary, we recommend getting started around a year before you plan to study. You should also expect to pay a fee for each application you make. Universities usually charge around EUR 50.
Postgraduate applications
Every university has its own application process for postgraduate study, which all students must follow.
You may need to submit your details to an institution's international office or postgraduate admissions team, or you may be able to apply with an education agent. For students from some countries, agents are compulsory. Whatever the case may be for you, clear guidance should be provided.
Application fees at postgraduate level depend on the university, but are usually around EUR 50.
Academic requirements
Qualifications
At undergraduate level, the minimum you will need is a qualification that is deemed equivalent to the Irish Leaving Certificate. For example, this could be a HSC from Pakistan or a WASSCE from West Africa. Effectively, universities look for something at the level of a high school diploma.
At postgraduate level, you will usually need to have a university-level qualification. If you want to study for a master's, this would most often be a bachelor's degree, but other qualifications such as postgraduate diplomas may be accepted. Once you have a master's, you will be eligible for a PhD.
The grades required in each case will vary depending on the university and course. You won’t necessarily need to have them when you apply, but you should be able to show that you are on track to get them.
Admissions tests
For some courses, you will need to pass an admissions test.
If you are applying to study medicine in Ireland at undergraduate level, you may need to sit the Health Professions Admission Test (HPAT). For Irish applicants, this is compulsory, but not all universities require it of international students. Check with them directly regarding this.
For postgraduate medicine courses, you'll need to sit either the Graduate Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT) or University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT). Some universities only accept the GAMSAT, while others accept both.
Find out all about the top medical schools in Ireland.
English language requirements
In some cases, universities require proof of your English language ability. Each one has a different approach to this, so it is worth looking at what they say closely. Your previous qualifications or nationality may exempt you from checks.
If you do need to prove your ability, you can take an approved English language test. Most universities and courses require an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no band score below 6.0. A similar score is needed for other tests such as TOEFL.
There are separate English language requirements for visas, but these are lower. Find out more from our guide to applying for a student visa in Ireland.
Required documents
You will need to provide copies of various documents when you apply to university in Ireland. The ones required will vary across institutions and courses, but the following are common:
- Academic transcripts and/or certificates
- English language test results
- Passport or another valid identity document
- Personal statement
- References or letters of recommendation
Personal statement
An effective personal statement is very important. This written essay can make your qualities and interests clear, and set your application apart.
Use a professional but human tone of voice to show the university what makes you a good candidate. Focus on your strengths and motivations, and what studying on their course would mean to you.
You will not usually need to supply a personal statement if you apply via CAO.
References
You may also need to ask at least one teacher or tutor to supply a reference (sometimes known as a letter of recommendation). This should set out your academic ability, work ethic and general suitability for higher education.
If you're applying for a postgraduate degree, you will have the option to submit a professional (non-academic) reference. This may be helpful if you have not recently been in education. If possible, ask someone with knowledge of the subject you aim to study.
Written references are not required for applications made via CAO. Mature students must supply the contact details of two referees, but they do not need to prepare a statement.
Application deadlines
In Ireland, the academic year typically runs from September to June, with some postgraduate courses starting in January. These dates have an impact on when you should apply.
Undergraduate applications
If you are a citizen of Ireland, the UK, or a country in the European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA), you should follow the CAO deadlines for undergraduate courses.
These are:
- February 1 (17:00 Irish time) – normal deadline
- May 1 (17:00 Irish time) – deadline for late applications (with a higher fee)
You can start your application from November.
If you are not a citizen of Ireland, the UK, or a country in the European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA), you should follow the deadlines of the university or universities to which you are applying.
Each one will have its own dates, which may vary for different courses. It is very important that you check these carefully and give yourself enough time to apply.
Postgraduate applications
Deadlines for postgraduate courses are set by universities. These vary, so always research them carefully and try to give yourself enough time to prepare.
What happens next?
After your application has been considered, the institution(s) to which you have applied will decide if they want to offer you a place on their course. They will inform you of their decision by email or CAO, depending on the way you applied. The amount of time you will need to wait for this will vary, but institutions should aim to respond as promptly as possible.
If you are made an offer, it may be marked as 'unconditional' or 'firm' (guaranteeing you a place on the course) or 'conditional'. In the latter case, you may need to meet additional requirements before your offer can be confirmed. For example, you could have to achieve certain exam results, or attend an admissions interview.
After accepting an offer, it is time to take the next steps towards studying in Ireland. You will need to make a start on your student visa application, and begin looking for accommodation. Finding somewhere to live is not always simple for international students – university halls of residence can be oversubscribed – so it is wise to research as early as you can.
You will also want to consider your finances. Get started with our guide to the student cost of living in Ireland.
We hope you now feel more confident with applying to university in Ireland. If you'd like to know more about studying in the country, try our guides to tuition fees in Ireland and the things you should know before studying in Ireland. Alternatively, you can begin looking for your ideal course with our simple search tool.
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