Ireland is a dynamic, lively, modern country with a young population and a successful, technologically-orientated economy. Yet it remains a country where music, conversation, culture, traditions and time to relax, listen and make friends matters; a country with cultured, cosmopolitan cities and beautiful, unspoiled countryside and scenery.
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Applying to institutions abroad can be a lengthy process, so make sure you start gathering materials for your application early and research all the relevant application deadlines thoroughly. Being organised will help to make the process easier.
How to apply
The main system for applications to Irish institutions is the Central Applications Office (CAO). This will mainly be used by EU students, who can apply to any higher education institution in Ireland through the CAO. This centralised system allows you to apply to up to ten courses across multiple institutions in Ireland.
Students from outside the EU may need to apply to the institution directly, with a few exceptions. Contact each institution’s Admissions Office to enquire whether application is through CAO or to the institution directly. You should ensure you make these enquiries well in advance of the CAO closing date. To see a list of institutions that can be applied for through CAO by non-EU residents, see page 6 of the CAO handbook.
Full details about how to apply, and an explanation of the application and offers process, can be found in the CAO handbook. The CAO handbook contains all the information you will need to fill out your application and should answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Application fees
You must pay a one-off fee for the processing of your CAO application. All fees are non-refundable. The fees for 2011 are as follows (these are likely to be similar for 2012):
Deadlines
It is your own responsibility to ensure that you submit your form on time. Avoid leaving it until close to the closing date, so that you have time to review your application if you wish. No extensions to the closing date will be given. The deadlines for 2011 applications have passed, but the dates are likely to be roughly the same for 2012 application (the 2012 dates have yet to be confirmed - check the CAO website for updates). The dates for this year were as follows:
Entry requirements
Entry requirements are often based on a scoring system and will vary between different institutions, so it is best to contact the international office of your chosen institution to find out what grades you will need for your course and how your own qualifications compare. For guidance on the scoring system or applications visit - www.cao.ie
For those applying to institutes of technology, the IOTCEF provides a central scoring system for applicants presenting school leaving qualifications other than Irish Leaving Certificate and FETAC Level 5/6 examinations. This central evaluation process provides a guideline to the qualifications accepted. For more information, visit the Institutes of Technology Central Evaluation Forum (IOTCEF).
English language requirements
To study at third level in Ireland, students are required to demonstrate competency in the English language. Proof of competency includes completion of a relevant English language test, such as IELTS or TOEFL. You should contact your chosen institutions to ask which English language awards they are willing to accept.
Last updated: 8 September 2011
