Admission to Ireland

Ireland is a popular choice: an English-speaking environment, leading IT and business programmes, and the chance to stay on for 1–2 years after your studies.

Visa types

A short-stay visa (up to 3 months) and a long-stay Stamp 2 student visa. After arrival, you must register with the immigration office.

Language requirements

IELTS 5.5 for preparatory programmes, 6.0–6.5 for Bachelor's degrees, and 6.5–7.0 for Master's degrees.

Academic requirements and documents

For a Bachelor's — a secondary school certificate with good grades. For a Master's — a Bachelor's degree. Documents needed: passport, diplomas with translation, language certificate, motivation letter, two references and proof of funds.

Financial requirements

The funds must have been in your account for at least 3–6 months, plus medical insurance.

Admission

Bachelor's applications go through the online CAO system (deadline 1 February, late deadline 1 May). Master's applications go directly to the university, with timing depending on the programme.

Visa application

Secure an offer from the university, pay the deposit, confirm your funds, buy insurance, and apply for the visa at the embassy. Processing takes 2–8 weeks.

Work for students

Up to 20 hours a week during term, and up to 40 hours over the holidays.

Admission timeline (over 12–14 months)

12 months ahead — choose your university. 10 months ahead — prepare for IELTS. 8 months ahead — gather and translate your documents. 6–7 months ahead — write your motivation letter. 5–6 months ahead — submit your application. 4 months ahead — pay the deposit. 3 months ahead — apply for the visa. 1 month ahead — collect the visa and fly out.

Common mistakes

A low IELTS score. Applying for the visa too late. Funds in the account for less than 3 months. A weak motivation letter. Missing the 1 February deadline.

How Edunation helps

We find you a university and programme free of charge, help with letters and references, prepare you for IELTS, check your funds, arrange the visa, and organise your transfer and accommodation.

With Edunation, admission to Ireland is realistic and within reach. Start with a free consultation.