Minimum IELTS Scores for Ireland: Universities & Study Visa
The IELTS exam is required to demonstrate English language proficiency for students seeking admission at Irish institutes. The minimum IELTS required to obtain an Irish study visa is 4.0 (foundational/pathway courses) and 5.0 (regular courses). In this blog, we have discussed the minimum IELTS score required to study in Ireland, which differs depending on the university, study level, and programs.
Significance of IELTS Score for Ireland
- The importance of the IELTS exam for Ireland is evergreen.
- International students who want to study, work, and live in this country have the option to attempt the IELTS exam.Â
- Since the IELTS exam is available in 2 formats (paper-based and computer-based), candidates have the flexibility to choose either of them.Â
- Also, students can attempt the IELTS as many times as they want to improve their band score.
- IELTS scores can help Indian students find a wide range of academic and professional opportunities that require English language proficiency.
Minimum IELTS Score Required to Study in Ireland: Study-Level Wise
The minimum IELTS score required for Ireland to pursue academic programs is 5.0-6.5, depending on the university, study level, and programs.
| Level of Study | Minimum IELTS Score |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate degree | 6.0 |
| Postgraduate degree | 6.0-6.5 |
| Foundation courses | 4.5-5.5 |
For Undergraduate Level
The minimum IELTS score required for Ireland (undergraduate courses) is 6.0, depending on the university.
For Post-Graduate Level
The minimum IELTS requirement for a master’s in Ireland is 6.0-6.5, depending on the university.
Foundation Courses
The minimum IELTS score required to study in Ireland (foundation courses) is 4.5-5.5, depending on the university.
Minimum IELTS Score for Ireland: Institute Wise List
Below, we have presented a table demonstrating the minimum IELTS score required by different Irish universities.
| University | Minimum IELTS Score |
|---|---|
| Institute of Technology, Carlow | 5.0 |
| Eden School | 5.0 |
| Dublin City University | 5.5 |
| Dundalk Institute of Technology | 5.5 |
| INTO Queen's University Belfast | 5.5 |
| Babel Academy of English | 6.0 |
| College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) | 6.0 |
| Cork Institute of Technology | 6.0 |
| Institute of Technology, Tralee | 6.0 |
| Letterkenny Institute Of Technology | 6.0 |
| Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT) | 6.0 |
| Marino Institute of Education | 6.0 |
| Open Training College | 6.0 |
| UCD - University College Dublin | 6.0 |
| Waterford Institute of Technology | 6.0 |
| Dublin Business School | 6.5 |
| Galway Business School | 6.5 |
| Griffith College Dublin | 6.5 |
| Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown | 6.5 |
| Irish Management Institute | 6.5 |
| National College of Art and Design, Dublin | 6.5 |
| National College of Ireland | 6.5 |
| National University of Ireland - Dublin | 6.5 |
| National University of Ireland - Galway | 6.5 |
| Queen's University - Belfast | 6.5 |
| Trinity College, Dublin | 6.5 |
| TU Dublin | 6.5 |
| UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate School of Business | 6.5 |
| University College - Cork | 6.5 |
| University of Limerick | 6.5 |
Minimum IELTS Score for Irish Study Visa
The details of the minimum IELTS score to obtain an Irish study visa are tabulated below.
| Type of Course | Minimum IELTS Score |
|---|---|
| Foundation/Preparatory English Course | 4.0 |
| All other courses | 5.0 |
Studying in Ireland without IELTS
To study in Irish universities, providing an IELTS score band is not required; if you have
- An MOI certificate demonstrating that you have completed your previous studies in academic settings where the English language was the only mode of instruction and examinations.
OR
- Enrolled in a preparatory English course prior to the commencement of your regular study program.
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
Ireland is an English-speaking country where a wide range of institutions recognise IELTS. The minimum IELTS score required to study in Ireland depends on the university, study level, and the course in which students wish to enroll.
However, on average, this is around 5.0-6.5. While most undergraduate programs require international students to have an IELTS score of around 6.0, postgraduate programs require a score between 6.0 and 6.5, depending on the university.
FAQs
Can I go to Ireland with an IELTS band score of 5.5?
Yes, with an IELTS band score of 5.5, you can go to Ireland to pursue higher studies. With this IELTS score, you can become eligible for certain foundational and pathway programs at several Irish universities.
Is IELTS required for a master's in Ireland?
Depending on the university, an IELTS score can be required to submit for enrolling in the master’s courses in Ireland. On average, the minimum IELTS requirement for a master’s in Ireland is 6.0-6.5.
How much is an IELTS score required for Trinity College Dublin?
The IELTS band score of 6.5 is required to gain entry into Trinity College Dublin.
What is the IELTS requirement for the National College of Ireland?
The IELTS band score of 6.5 is required to gain entry into the National College of Ireland.
What Irish universities are available with an IELTS band score of 6.5?
On an IELTS band score of 6.5, Irish universities such as Dublin Business School, Galway Business School, Trinity College Dublin, National College of Ireland, University College Cork, UCD Business School, etc., are available.Â
