Many students from other countries like to study in Ireland because of its top-quality education. International students planning to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate courses in Ireland typically take the IELTS test to demonstrate their English language proficiency. Most Irish schools usually accept the IELTS test. However, for some students, achieving the required scores can be challenging. This can be an obstacle for individuals interested in studying in Ireland. However, there are alternative ways for students to fulfill their dream of studying in Ireland without taking the IELTS test.
Most universities in Ireland are really good and don't ask for the IELTS test. These universities are Top-ranked and liked by students. They're known for their great teaching, research, and friendly atmosphere, making them popular choices for students from around the world.
Here is the list of top-ranked universities in Ireland without IELTS
Universities |
QS Ranking 2024 |
Dublin City University |
436 |
Trinity College Dublin |
81 |
University of limerick |
426 |
University College Cork |
292 |
National College of Ireland |
N/A |
University College Dublin |
171 |
National University of Ireland, Galway |
289 |
Griffith College |
243 |
Some universities in Ireland let you study there without taking the IELTS test. Instead, These universities prefer alternative tests as evidence of English language proficiency.
Here are the lists of universities that take alternatives to the IELTS test.
University's name |
Alternative to IELTS |
Dublin City University |
Duolingo English test |
Trinity College Dublin |
Pre-sessional English Program |
University College Limerick |
Duolingo English test |
University College of Cork |
Pre-sessional English Program |
University College of Dublin |
English Language Pathway Program |
National College of Ireland |
Pre-sessional English Program |
ICD Business School |
Pre-sessional English Program |
Griffith College |
TOEFL ibt special home-edition |
NUI Galway |
English Language Pathway Program |
Dublin Business School |
Duolingo English test |
Irish universities provide a wide range of courses, covering subjects like sports, science, healthcare, Law, construction, and computer engineering. These courses often require an IELTS score for admission, but if you do not have an IELTS score then follow these steps.
Step 1: Application Process
First, you need to look into different universities and the courses they offer in Ireland. That will help you choose the best options that align with your career goals. Check out the university's official website to find information about university rankings, eligibility requirements, and available courses. After selecting the colleges that don't require IELTS scores, then you apply online.
Step 2: Online test or video interview
If any of these universities choose you, they might ask you to take an online test or do a video interview. This is to check about your English Language Proficiency. If you do well, Then you may be selected for the next round.
Step 3: Pay Your Tuition Fees for Study
If your interview or test goes well, you'll receive a confirmation letter from the university. After that, you have to pay your tuition fees, which range between €10,000 to €25,000 per year.
Step 4: Apply for scholarships
Many universities in Ireland offer scholarships to international students, which helps students afford their education costs and expenses. These scholarships are for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degrees in Ireland.
Here are the lists of scholarships that are available to students in Ireland
Trinity College Dublin Scholarships
Government of Ireland Scholarships
The Walsh Fellowships
Irish Research Council Scholarships
National College of Ireland Scholarships
Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology Scholarship
Step 5: Apply for Ireland Student Visa
If you have an acceptance letter from the university, Without IELTS study visa in Ireland is possible for international students.
These are the documents required while applying for a student visa in Ireland
Academic Transcripts.
A valid passport and other travel documentation
Proof of fee payment.
Letter of acceptance from an institution in Ireland.
Evidence of funds that support your expenses during your course in Ireland.
Medical insurance details.
Proof of no criminal record.
Your biometric information.
If you want to study in Ireland but find the IELTS test hard, many universities in Ireland accept the TOEFL, PTE, DET, or Cambridge English test. These tests give you an alternative way to show your English language proficiency
Here are the universities that accept alternatives to IELTS with scores.
University |
Cambridge test |
TOEFL |
DET |
PTE |
University of Galway |
180 |
88 |
110 |
61 |
Trinity College Dublin |
180 |
88 |
110 |
63 |
University College Dublin |
176 |
90 |
120 |
63 |
University College Cork |
176 |
90 |
120 |
63 |
University of limerick |
- |
90 |
110 |
61 |
Dublin City University |
178 |
92 |
110 |
63 |
Dublin Business School |
- |
78 |
95 |
- |
Griffith College |
180 |
71 |
- |
50 |
National College of Ireland |
- |
78 |
95 |
- |
In Ireland, you can study without taking the IELTS test, If you choose other tests that show your English language proficiency in speaking, listening, writing, and reading.
Here are the lists of alternative tests
Oxford Test of English (OTE)
Duolingo English Test (DET)
The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test)
Occupational English Test
Cambridge Examinations (Proficiency & Advanced)
Test of English as a Foreign Language
Pearson Test of English (PTE)
LanguageCert IESOL
Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC)