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How To Get Into University College Dublin (UCD)
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The University College Dublin (UCD) is Ireland’s largest and most globally engaged university, known for academic excellence, industry connections, and a vibrant campus life just minutes from central Dublin.
Founded in 1854, UCD has consistently ranked among the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide. With a modern campus and strong ties to global employers, UCD offers a dynamic, career-focused education that attracts over 9,000 international students annually.
Why Choose University College Dublin?
If you’re looking for a university that combines global rankings, academic flexibility, and strong post-study outcomes, UCD might be your perfect match.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Global Ranking | 171st worldwide (QS 2025) |
| Student Population | Over 38,000 (including 9,500+ international students from 140+ countries) |
| Location | Dublin, Ireland (leafy Belfield campus) |
| Reputation | Ireland’s most international university |
| Graduate Employability | Ranked #1 in Ireland for graduate employability (QS 2024) |
| Industry Partnerships | Over 1,000 partnerships, especially strong in STEM, business, and agri-food |
Entry Requirements for International Students
UCD has a welcoming admissions process tailored to international students from a wide variety of educational backgrounds.
Undergraduate Programs at University College Dublin
Here’s what you need to get into UCD as an international undergraduate student:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualification | 85–90% in Class XII (CBSE/ISC/State Boards) or equivalent |
| English Proficiency | IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL iBT 90+ / Cambridge English accepted |
| Standardized Tests | SAT/ACT not required (except for US applicants) |
| Application System | Apply via UCD’s official portal or CAO |
| Personal Statement | Required for specific programs (especially Arts, Medicine, Law) |
| Letters of Recommendation | Sometimes needed, especially for competitive programs or scholarships |
| Extracurricular Profile | Considered for holistic evaluation and scholarships |
Postgraduate Programs at University College Dublin
UCD offers a diverse range of career-oriented and research-based master’s and PhD programs.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualification | Typically a First Class or strong Second Class Honours Bachelor’s (70%+) |
| English Proficiency | IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL iBT 90+ (some programs may ask for higher) |
| GRE/GMAT | Required only for specific programs like MBA |
| Work Experience | Required for professional degrees; optional for others |
| Research Proposal | Needed for PhDs and research-focused programs |
Application Process to University College Dublin
UCD makes it easy for international students to apply and track their applications online.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Research Courses | Explore your options on the UCD website across UG and PG levels |
| Prepare Documents | Academic transcripts, SOP, English test scores, passport, and references |
| Apply Online | Submit through UCD’s application portal or CAO (UG) |
| Pay Fees | €50 application fee (subject to change) |
| Offer Letter | Issued on a rolling basis (UG & PG); early applications encouraged |
| Accept Offer | Accept your place and pay the required deposit |
| Apply for Visa | Start Irish Study Visa application process via INIS |
Required Documents Checklist
Here’s what you’ll typically need to prepare for a successful application.
| Document | Undergraduate | Postgraduate |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Transcripts | Yes | Yes |
| Statement of Purpose | Yes (Personal Statement) | Yes |
| Letters of Recommendation | Sometimes | Usually 2 required |
| English Test Scores | Yes | Yes |
| Passport Copy | Yes | Yes |
| CV/Resume | Optional | Often Required |
| Portfolio (if applicable) | For design/art programs | Required for creative fields |
You Might Also Like: How To Get Into Trinity College Dublin (TCD)
Key Deadlines at University College Dublin
Mark your calendar – UCD has rolling deadlines, but early applications improve your chances.
| Intake | Application Opens | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Fall (UG & PG) | October (previous year) | UG: February 1 via CAO; PG: Rolling (Mar–May recommended) |
Important Dates for 2025 Entry
Stay on track with this quick reference for upcoming milestones.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| UG Application Deadline | February 1, 2025 (via CAO) |
| PG Application Deadlines | Rolling—aim for March to May 2025 |
| Scholarship Deadline | Late February 2025 |
| Visa Application | April–June 2025 |
| Course Start | September 2025 |
Popular Courses at University College Dublin
UCD offers internationally respected programs across disciplines – from medicine to agri-tech.
| Course | Duration | Annual Tuition Fee (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| MB BCh BAO Medicine (UG) | 5–6 years | €31,000 – €40,000 |
| BSc in Computer Science | 4 years | €23,000 – €25,000 |
| M.Sc. in Business Analytics | 1 year | €20,000 – €24,000 |
| M.A. in International Relations | 1 year | €19,000 – €21,000 |
| PhD in Agriculture and Food Science | 3–4 years | Funded or ~€6,000 – €8,000/year (EU) |
Scholarships for International Students
UCD offers multiple funding options to support talented global students.
| Scholarship Name | Amount (EUR) | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Global Excellence Scholarship | €2,000–€5,000 | Academic merit; automatic consideration |
| UCD College Scholarships | Varies | Based on department/faculty nomination |
| Government of Ireland Scholarships | Full tuition + stipend | Highly competitive; leadership & merit-based |
Student Life & Support at UCD
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | On-campus residences and Dublin city housing options |
| Part-Time Work | Up to 20 hours/week during term (non-EU/EEA students) |
| Student Societies | 100+ clubs and societies in sports, arts, academics, and culture |
| Career Services | Career coaching, job fairs, internships, and strong employer connections |
| Health & Wellbeing | On-campus health centre, counselling, and wellness resources |
| International Support | UCD Global provides visa advice, airport pickup, and orientation events |
Need Personalized Help?
Whether you’re eyeing University College Dublin (UCD) for business, science, or the arts, personalized guidance can fast-track your admission success.
Platforms like Admitix can support you with tailored strategies for every step.
FAQs – University College Dublin
Is UCD hard to get into?
Admission is competitive for certain programs like Medicine and Business Analytics, but strong academics and a complete application help a lot.
Do I need IELTS/TOEFL to apply?
Yes. Proof of English proficiency is needed if English isn’t your first language.
Can I work while studying?
Yes. International students can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) during the academic year.
Does UCD offer scholarships for international students?
Absolutely. UCD has several merit-based scholarships and participates in national scholarship schemes.
What makes UCD unique?
UCD offers a balance of academic strength, global partnerships, and a vibrant student experience in one of Europe’s most liveable cities.