Study in Ireland Without IELTS 2025: Top Universities, Alternatives & Visa Guide

Dreaming of studying in Ireland but struggling with IELTS? Discover top-ranked Irish universities like Trinity College Dublin and UCD that accept alternatives like Duolingo or TOEFL. Get the full list of universities, scores, the 5-step application process, and visa requirements.
authorImageMbbs 16 Oct, 2025
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Study in Ireland Without IELTS

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.

List of Universities in Ireland Without IELTS: Rankings

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

Universities to Study in Ireland without IELTS: Alternative test

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

How can I Study in Ireland Without IELTS?

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.

Popular Alternatives Score to Study in Ireland Without IELTS

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

-

Study in Ireland without IELTS: Alternative Test

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)

Study in Ireland Without IELTS FAQs

Is it possible to get Ireland's PR without IELTS?

Yes, It is possible to get permanent residency in Ireland without IELTS but you need to prove your proficiency in English through other tests.

Does Ireland accept PTE?

Yes, the PTE score is accepted in Ireland.

Can I get Ireland PR in 2 years?

If you are in the category of critical skill employment permit or tech permit, then you can get Ireland PR in 2 years

How much bank balance is required for an Ireland student visa?

A minimum € 10,000 bank balance is required for an Ireland student visa.

How to study in Ireland without IELTS?

Many universities in Ireland accept students without IELTS. They assess candidates' English language skills using other tests such as TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge tests.

Can I be eligible to get PR in Ireland after study?

Yes, you will be eligible to get PR after 5 years of work and stay in Ireland.
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