University preparation in Dublin 2024

Ireland is an island nation in the Atlantic Ocean with a favorable year-round climate. Thanks to the sea air and constant positive temperature, the island pleases with an abundance of beautiful greenery. Many tourists come to the country to see historical sites, unique nature, national parks and lakes. But Ireland is known not only for its attractive beauty, but also for its quality education in higher education institutions.

Dublin is the largest city in Ireland, the economic, cultural and industrial center of the state, where all the opportunities for obtaining effective preparation for admission to universities are concentrated. This is a safe city, all the amenities for students are provided for a full life and effective learning. Preparation for universities in Dublin provides an excellent opportunity to achieve your goals, learn perfect English, get high-quality training and be confident in enrolling in the chosen university.

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?

It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.

Dublin's universities are distinguished by their prestige and affordable costs. They offer a high level of academic discipline teaching by highly qualified educators and world-renowned scholars. Dublin provides an opportunity to excel in sought-after professions with accredited institutions whose degrees are globally recognized, ensuring a successful career. These institutions have also been the alma mater of many global celebrities.

Preparation for university studies in Dublin for international students begins with choosing the right institution. The requirements of the future university dictate the necessary courses and programs a student must undertake. A reliable route to Dublin universities is through completing the last two preparatory years at an Irish boarding school.

Language courses, including grammar, writing, reading, listening, and speaking with native English speakers, are essential. These courses require significant homework and offer at least 15 hours of English instruction per week in small classes of 10-15 students for effective learning.

Students also engage in international programs for undergraduate admission, available to anyone over 17 years old. The academic year is divided into three trimesters or two semesters, starting in September or January. Programs are categorized into professional pathways like natural and engineering sciences, health, humanities, economics, and business.

Core disciplines include English, mathematics, critical thinking, communication skills, and specialized subjects, with a strong focus on academic English. Successful completion of these preparatory courses allows direct admission to Irish universities in the chosen field.

Modern facilities, advanced research directions, and attentive faculty support students' adaptation, track progress, and adjust plans for high achievement. Students have access to extensive libraries, computer rooms, and laboratories and live in fully equipped dormitories with dining options (alternative accommodations include host families, hotels, or apartments). Post-class activities include self-development, creativity, sports, and participation in various interest clubs.

• International Foundation: A one-year program for international students to bridge educational gaps and prepare for university life. Course options include 6-month and 1-year durations, with enrollment in September or January. This program is for students over 16 with completed secondary education, leading to automatic university enrollment in the first year.

• Foundation Year Language Preparation (3-6 months): Includes intensive English study and IELTS preparation.

• International Foundation Year (1 year): Prepares students for undergraduate programs in medicine, sciences, business, and engineering.

• IELTS Intensive Preparation: An 8-hour course requiring basic English proficiency, taught by accredited native-speaking teachers with IELTS preparation experience.

• Individual English Courses: Tailored to the student's needs with one-on-one instruction for rapid and effective learning.

• A-Level: A two-year British program for in-depth study of 4-6 subjects, recognized by top universities worldwide, including Cambridge and Oxford.

• International Baccalaureate: A two-year program for 16-19-year-olds focusing on comprehensive intellectual, emotional, and physical development, covering six disciplines.

The cost of preparatory courses in Dublin is lower than in England or Canada but matches their quality. Prices vary based on the type and ranking of the institution, course duration, and the chosen program.

• Preparation program fees start from €7,000-16,000/year.

• English courses range from €500-600/2 weeks.

• Summer language courses cost between €1,500-3,500/2 weeks.

Additional expenses include a deposit for tuition, registration fees, medical insurance, personal expenses, and excursions.

• Minimum age of 16 years.

• Completed application form as per the institution's format.

• Academic performance for the last 2 years.

• School leaving certificate.

• Recommendation letters from teachers and the principal.

• Proof of English proficiency.

• A motivational letter.

• Financial proof from a bank statement.

• An interview and testing process.

These requirements are designed to ensure that students are well-prepared for the rigors of university education in Dublin. The courses offer a comprehensive approach to preparing for university, setting the foundation for successful admission and future academic achievements.