Exam Required to Study in Ireland for Undergraduate & Postgraduate Programs in 2025

Understanding the exam required to study in Ireland as someone pursuing a dream to study abroad can help you prepare in advance and secure admission into the best universities. These exams vary based on your level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate), courses, and country of origin. For instance, students wanting to pursue Masters in Ireland may need to clear specialised exams like the GMAT or GRE. However, keeping a tab on all these exams can feel like being snowed under. Luckily, this blog can help. How? In this blog, you will read a detailed list of exams required to study in Ireland for international students worth appearing in 2025 if they wish to study in Ireland. Let’s get started with preparing for your future. 

Exam Required to Study in Ireland for Undergraduate Courses

Universities in Ireland offer a variety of undergraduate programs. However, before applying, international students need to meet specific academic criteria, which often include standardised exams. Here are the most commonly required exams for undergraduate courses:

English Proficiency Tests to Study in Ireland

For non-native English speakers, proving English proficiency is a crucial step in applying to study in Ireland. Several standardised tests assess language skills, ensuring students can succeed in an English-speaking academic environment. Here are the key English proficiency tests accepted by Irish universities:

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

The IELTS is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests for studying in Ireland. It evaluates reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Universities accepting IELTS scores determine a student’s ability to communicate effectively in academic settings. The overall average IELTS score required by Irish universities is 6.5 whereas some universities may not accept a score below 7.0.

Universities in Ireland Accepting IELTS Score	Minimum IELTS Score Required
University College Dublin	6.5
University College Cork	6.5
University of Galway	6.5
University of Limerick	6.5
Dublin City University	6.5
Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland	6.5

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2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

TOEFL is another globally recognized test accepted by Irish universities. It measures a student’s ability to understand and use English in academic contexts, with a focus on reading, listening, speaking, and writing. TOEFL scores help universities assess a student’s preparedness for academic work in English.

Universities in Ireland Accepting TOEFL Score	iBT TOEFL score
UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School	90
University College Cork	90
University of Galway	88
University of Limerick	90
Dublin City University	92

3. PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic)

International students can also benefit from many universities accepting PTE. PTE Academic is a computer-based English language test that evaluates reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Many Irish universities accept PTE Academic scores as proof of English proficiency. It’s known for fast results and its fair, unbiased scoring system.

Universities in Ireland Accepting PTE Score	iBT TOEFL score
Dublin City University	63
University of Limerick	61
University College Cork	63
Royal College of Surgeons	67 – 84
Technological University Dublin	65

4. Duolingo English Test

Duolingo accepted universities in Ireland offer a more affordable and flexible option for demonstrating English proficiency. This test assesses reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills through a short, online format.

Universities in Ireland Accepting Duolingo English Test Score	iBT TOEFL score
Dublin City University	120
University of Limerick	120
University College Cork	120
Technological University Dublin	120
UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School	130

Exams Required for Postgraduate Studies in Ireland

Ireland offers a wide range of postgraduate programs, including master’s, diploma, and doctoral degrees. Admission to these programs typically requires more specific exams, which may include a combination of standardised tests, entrance exams, and sometimes interviews. Apart from English language proficiency tests, you also need to clear other examinations such as: 

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

The GMAT is commonly required for students applying to MBA or other business-related postgraduate courses in Ireland. The exam evaluates skills in analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning. A competitive GMAT score is often a key factor for gaining admission to top business schools.

Best MBA Universities in Ireland Accepting GMAT Score	GMAT score
Trinity College Dublin	600 – 650
University College Dublin	646
University College Cork	600
Trinity Business School	600

SAT/ACT (For US-based Students)

Students from the United States may be asked to submit SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) or ACT (American College Testing) scores for undergraduate programs in Ireland. The score requirements depend on the university, but typically, universities in Ireland expect strong performance (around 1200–1400 for the SAT or 25–30 for the ACT).

Universities in Ireland Accepting SAT/ACT Score	SAT scores	ACT scores
University College Dublin	1100	22
University College Cork	1140 – 1470	23 – 32
University of Galway	1090	21
University of Limerick	1190 – 1350	24 – 28
Dublin City University	1200	24

Do Check Out:

• Requirements to Study in Ireland for Indian Students
• The Ultimate Guide To Ireland Student Visa Success Rate
• Complete Details On the Ireland Student Visa Process

GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

The GRE is frequently required for graduate programs in fields like science, engineering, and some business disciplines. It measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. Some Irish universities may waive the GRE requirement based on work experience or academic excellence.

GAMSAT (Graduate Medical School Admission Test)

For students aspiring to study medicine in Ireland, the GAMSAT is a crucial exam. This test is designed for graduate-entry medical programs and assesses reasoning in biological and physical sciences, as well as written communication and critical thinking skills. Many Irish medical schools, including University College Dublin and the Royal College of Surgeons, require the GAMSAT as part of their admission process.

Specific Course-Related Entrance Exams

Some postgraduate programs require additional specific exams. These could be:

• LSAT (Law School Admission Test): For students applying for law programs in Ireland.
• MCAT (Medical College Admission Test): MCAT is for students applying for graduate-entry medicine at select Irish universities

FAQs

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9 Most Popular Entrance Exams for Foreign Universities	Reasons for Ireland Student Visa Rejection Rate

This blog was all about the exam required to study in Ireland. Not sure how to go about it? Let the professionals at Leverage Edu take care of your academic journey! You may enlist the assistance of Leverage Edu specialists to assist you with the application process so that you can realize your goals. Call us immediately at 1800 57 2000 for a free 30-minute counselling session.