How to Apply to Universities in Ireland

Q: Can I apply to Irish universities without IELTS?

Some universities accept TOEFL, Cambridge C1/C2, or PTE Academic as alternatives to IELTS. Students from countries where English is the primary language of instruction may be exempt — contact the admissions office to confirm.

Q: How are CAO points calculated for international students?

Irish universities convert international qualifications to CAO points for comparison. The Irish Universities Association has a conversion table on its website. A-Levels, IB, and most European qualifications have established conversion rates.

CAO for undergraduate, direct portals for postgraduate — your Irish application guide.

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UG Application Portal CAO (cao.ie)

PG Application Route Direct to each university

Language English

Visa Required Non-EU: Yes

Ireland's application process is straightforward: undergraduate students use the Central Applications Office (CAO) system, while postgraduate applicants go directly to each university. All programs are in English, removing one major barrier for international students.

Undergraduate: Apply through CAO

Register at cao.ie and submit your application by February 1 (equal consideration deadline). You can list up to 10 Level 8 (honors bachelor's) and 10 Level 7/6 programs in order of preference. Pay the application fee (approximately €45).

Order your preferences carefully — CAO assigns your highest available offer based on points.

Postgraduate: Apply directly to universities

Each Irish university has its own postgraduate application portal. Trinity College Dublin, UCD, UCC, NUI Galway, and DCU all have separate systems. Identify your target program and apply through the relevant portal before the stated deadline.

Submit supporting documents

Undergraduate: CAO collects your Leaving Certificate (or equivalent) results automatically. International students submit transcripts, certified translations, and a credential evaluation if needed. Postgraduate: submit transcripts, bachelor's degree certificate, personal statement, references, and language test results.

Attend an interview (some programs)

Medicine (HPAT-Ireland test required), social work, education, and some competitive programs require additional tests or interviews. Check the requirements of each specific program.

The HPAT (Health Professions Admissions Test) is held in February — register separately.

Accept your offer

CAO sends undergraduate offers in August. Accept your offer through the CAO portal within the deadline (typically 3 days). Postgraduate offers are made by universities directly by email.

Apply for a study visa (non-EU)

Apply for an Irish Study Visa (D type) at the Irish embassy or consulate. Required: acceptance letter, proof of tuition payment, proof of financial means (€7,000/year), and medical insurance. Apply by June for a September start.

Processing takes up to 8 weeks — apply immediately after paying tuition or getting your conditional offer.

Within 90 days of arriving in Ireland, register with the Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) to obtain your Irish Residence Permit (IRP card). Bring your passport, offer letter, proof of finances, and insurance.