Admissions & Applications FAQ

What undergraduate courses can I study at TU Dublin?

TU Dublin offers a wide range of undergraduate courses across areas such as business, engineering, science, computing, arts, or healthcare.  You can explore all available undergraduate courses at https://www.tudublin.ie/study/undergraduate/cao/courses/ 

What is the difference between a Level 6/7 and a Level 8 qualification?

A Level 7 qualification is an ordinary Bachelor's Degree that typically takes three years to complete and focuses on practical knowledge and skills. A Level 8 qualification is an honours Bachelor's Degree that usually takes three to four years and provides more advanced study, often allowing progression to postgraduate education. See our progression page for further information.

Which campus will I study on?

At TU Dublin we have five distinct campuses across Dublin City. Our campuses are located in Aungier Street, Blanchardstown, Bolton Street, Grangegorman and Tallaght. Specific locations for each course are detailed on individual course pages.

What are my typical class hours?

Full time undergraduate courses will require on-campus attendance. Classes run on a timetabled basis and full time students should expect to be timetabled for classes any time between 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday. Sample timetables are present on the majority of our course pages. 

When is the next Open Day?

Details of all our upcoming open days can be found on our open days page: https://www.tudublin.ie/opendays/ 

Is there an interview or portfolio requirement for my course?

Some TU Dublin courses require an interview, audition, suitability test, or portfolio submission as part of the admissions process. Information can be found on the dedicated pages for Auditions, Interviews and Tests and for Portfolio Submissions.

How do I get to my campus?

Detailed travel and transport information for each campus can be found on the Our Campuses section of our website: https://www.tudublin.ie/explore/our-campuses/ 

Where can I find accommodation?

The TU Dublin Student Accommodation Team has developed a set of guides to help you understand your accommodation options. Please visit https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/accommodation--living-in-dublin/ for further information

What clubs and societies can I join? 

TU Dublin has a very active student community with 60+ societies and 30–40 sports clubs across its campuses, so there's something for almost every interest. 

You can view full details on our website 

https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/sport-societies-volunteering/societies/  

and  

https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/sport-societies-volunteering/sport/sports-clubs/  

What sports facilities are available? 

TU Dublin boasts exceptional award winning sport and fitness facilities across Grangegorman, Blanchardstown, Broombridge, and Tallaght campuses. With grass and synthetic pitches, fitness studios, performance gyms, fitness classes, and a wide range of programmes designed to help you stay active and connected. You can view full details of these at https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/sport-societies-volunteering/sport-facilities/  

Is there a Students' Union? 

Yes. TU Dublin Students Union (SU) is the independent, democratic, voice of TU Dublin students. You can find full details at https://tudublinsu.ie/  

How do I apply for an apprenticeship programme?

Information on apprenticeship programmes at TU Dublin is available on the Apprenticeships page.

Who should apply through the CAO? 

Your residency and/or nationality determines how you should make an application to TU Dublin.  

Note: Applicants presenting with the Irish Leaving Certificate or a QQI FET award, regardless of nationality, should apply through the CAO. 

  • Non-EU International applicants apply online through the TU Dublin application system linked on each course page. 

For full details, please visit https://www.tudublin.ie/study/undergraduate/cao/entry-routes/how-to-apply/ 

Does the order of my CAO course choices matter? 

Yes, the order is very important and will influence the offers you receive. The CAO processes your application based on a strict Genuine Order of Preference. Always place your absolute dream course at number 1, followed by your second favourite, and so on. For further information, please visit the CAO website.  

Can I change my CAO choices after applying? 

Yes. You can change your CAO course choices after applying. During the CAO Change of Mind period (up to 1 July), you can add, remove, reorder, or replace most courses as often as you like. Note that restricted courses  cannot be added after their deadline. Please visit the CAO website for full details.  

Can I apply for more than one TU Dublin course? 

Yes. We strongly recommend that students fully complete the CAO application form in order to keep your options open and to maximise your application.  

On the CAO you can list up to 10 choices for Level 8 degrees and up to 10 choices for Level 6/7 degrees. You must rank these in genuine order of preference, as you will only receive an offer for the highest-choice course for which you qualify 

Is it too late to apply for an undergraduate course this year? 

If you haven't submitted a CAO application by the closing date of 1 May, it's too late to apply for undergraduate courses through the CAO for that academic year. The 1 May deadline is the final deadline for late applications. 

If you've already submitted a CAO application by 1 May, you can still change your course choices during the free Change of Mind period (typically until 1 July), although restrictions apply to some courses. 

I missed the CAO application deadline. Can I still apply for a course?  

The only possible option for people who missed the CAO deadline (May 1st)  would be any courses that become available through Available Places after the first round of offers are issued in August. Any programmes with remaining vacancies will be listed on the CAO Available Places website, and eligible applicants may apply at that stage, provided they meet the minimum entry requirements. At present, we do not know which courses, if any, will be available, so you would need to check the CAO website after offers are released in August. 

Are there Available Places after the main CAO offers are issued? 

After the main CAO Round One offers are issued, some courses may still have unfilled places. These are listed as Available Places on the CAO website, and eligible applicants can apply if they meet the course's minimum entry requirements. We do not know what courses, if any, will have available places until after the initial round of offers are made in August.  

What are the minimum entry requirements? 

Minimum entry requirements vary by course and are detailed on each individual course page. In order to be considered for a place, applicants must meet the minimum entry requirements and achieve the CAO points quota.   

What grade do I need in Foundation Level Mathematics or Irish? 

We accept Foundation Level Mathematics for the purposes of entry requirements the case of any course where Higher or Ordinary Level Mathematics is not a requirement.  Please check the course page to ensure you are aware of the individual math requirement. 

Points are awarded as follows: 

  • F1 = 20 points 
  • F2 = 12 points  

For the most part the University will not consider Foundation Level Irish for the purposes of entry requirements or for points, however a grade F3 in Foundation level Irish is acceptable for meeting the minimum entry requirements for some Higher Certificate courses.  Students with an F3 in Foundation level Irish must have passed five other subjects with a minimum grade of O6 including Math, students should check on individual course pages to determine if their foundation Irish grade is sufficient. 

How do bonus points for Higher Level Mathematics work? 

25 bonus points will continue to be awarded for Higher Level Mathematics for H6 grades and above. Bonus points are only counted where that subject is scored as one of the applicant’s best six subjects for points purposes.  

Which courses require a portfolio, audition or interview? 

The following courses require a portfolio as part of the application: 

  • TU975 (Interior Design) 
  • TU973 (Design – Visual Communication) 
  • TU974 (Fine Art) 
  • TU795 (Visual Merchandising & Display) 
  • TU832 (Architecture) 

Please see https://www.tudublin.ie/study/undergraduate/cao/entry-requirements/portfolio-submission/ for full details. 

Courses which require an Auditions/Interviews/Test are detailed at: 

https://www.tudublin.ie/study/undergraduate/cao/entry-requirements/auditions-interviews/.  

How can I apply using a QQI/FET qualification? 

QQI applications must be made through the Central Applications Office (CAO). Specific QQI requirements are detailed on each course page. A detailed guide on how to apply with a QQI qualification can be found at https://www.tudublin.ie/study/undergraduate/cao/entry-routes/qqi-fet-applicants/.  

I am a student from from the EU/UK/Ukraine - How do I apply? 

Applications are welcome from EU Students, students from the UK and students from the Ukraine. In all cases, applicants are required to meet the minimum entry requirements for the course they are applying for, and the application must be made via through the Central Applications Office (CAO). 

You are advised to refer to the EU qualification Entry requirements to see how your non-Irish qualification compares to the Irish system.  

Full details on applying as an EU Student can be found here: https://www.tudublin.ie/study/undergraduate/cao/entry-routes/eu-applicants/  

Regarding documentation, you would need to submit copies of any school leaving certificates, copies of college certificates and examination transcripts when making your application. 

I will be applying as an international (Non-EU) student.  How do I apply? 

Non-EU students typically make their application directly to the TU Dublin International Admissions Office if you meet either/or of these criteria: 

  • You hold EU Nationality, but you have not lived in an EU country for 3 of the last 5 years 
  • You have not attended 5 years primary/secondary education in an EU country. 
  • You hold Non-EU Nationality and you live in a Non-EU country. 

A detailed guide on applying as an International Student can be found at https://www.tudublin.ie/study/international/how-to-apply/undergraduate-courses/  

You should also refer to our International Student hub for a comprehensive guide on Visas, Fees, Living in Ireland etc: https://www.tudublin.ie/study/international/  

What is Advanced Entry? 

If an applicant already holds certified educational achievements and/or work experience in a relevant field, it may be possible to apply for entry to the second or subsequent year of an undergraduate course. This process is known as an “Advanced Entry” application.  

Courses which are open for Advanced Entry are listed on the CAO website.  

Advanced Entry onto a course is not guaranteed. The number of Advanced Entry places differs from year to year, and the option for advance entry will depend on availability of places. 

How do I check the status of my CAO or direct application?

You can check the status of your CAO application by logging into your CAO account, while direct applicants such as postgraduate or non-EU students can log into the TU Dublin application portal used to submit their application.

Can I apply directly to TU Dublin without going through the CAO?

Some TU Dublin undergraduate courses accept direct applications without going through the CAO, and international or postgraduate applicants may also apply directly through TU Dublin’s online application system.

What is the closing date for CAO applications?

The standard closing date for CAO applications to TU Dublin is 1 February in the year of entry, while late applications close on 1 May.

Is there a mature student entry route?

Special considerations apply to mature applicants. Learn more on the Mature Applications page.

How do I apply under the DARE or HEAR scheme?

DARE is a reduced-points access scheme for school-leavers whose disabilities impacted their second-level education, while HEAR is a reduced-points scheme for students affected by socio-economic disadvantage; both schemes support eligible applicants applying to TU Dublin through the CAO.

What supporting documents are required with my application?

EU undergraduate applicants usually apply through the CAO, and any required supporting documents depend on the course and entry route, with details provided through the CAO and individual TU Dublin course pages. For international students, supporting documents for a TU Dublin application may include your passport, academic transcripts, grading scale, degree or completion certificate, proof of English proficiency, and an up-to-date CV, with some courses requiring additional documents.

 

How does the CAO offer system work? 

The CAO offer system works by matching applicants to courses based on their CAO preferences and Leaving Certificate points. Offers are made in rounds, and you receive the highest-preference course you qualify for, with lower preferences automatically removed once you accept an offer. If you don't receive your top choice initially, you may receive a higher-preference offer in a later round if places become available. 

When are CAO offers issued? 

CAO offers are typically issued in late August after the Leaving Certificate results are released. Other applicants may receive their offer earlier. Additional offer rounds may take place in the following weeks if places remain available or become vacant. Applicants are notified through their CAO account and by email or text if they have signed up for alerts. Key dates are detailed on the CAO website. 

How do I accept my CAO offer? 

If you’ve applied through the Central Applications Office (CAO), you’ll need to log in to your application to accept an offer once one has been made.  

I met the minimum entry requirements. Why didn't I receive an offer? 

Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee an offer. If a course has more qualified applicants than available places, offers are made in order of CAO points (and any additional selection criteria), so the points required may be higher than the minimum entry requirements. You may also not receive an offer if you did not meet a specific course requirement or ranked the course below another offer you accepted. 

Can I receive an offer if I don't meet the minimum entry requirements? 

No. You must meet the minimum entry requirements, including any specific subject requirements, to be eligible for a CAO offer. If you do not meet these requirements, you will generally not be considered for admission to that course. 

What are the CAO points for this year? 

CAO points are published after CAO Round 1 offers are issued in August each year. CAO points for the previous recruitment cycle will be indicated on each individual course page. 

Can you explain the Points Range? 

The CAO Points Range shows the lowest and highest Leaving Certificate points of applicants who received an offer for a course in the previous year. It is a guide to the competitiveness of a course, but it does not predict the points needed in future years, as these can change depending on the number of applicants and available places. Meeting or exceeding the previous year's points range does not guarantee you will receive an offer. 

Why do CAO points change from year to year? 

CAO points change each year because they are based on supply and demand rather than being fixed entry requirements. If more applicants apply for a course or achieve higher Leaving Certificate results, the points may increase; if there are fewer applicants or more places available, the points may decrease. As a result, the points required for the same course can vary from one year to the next.

Can I defer my place? 

In order to request a deferral an applicant must firstly have been offered a place through CAO.  

In this case, Do not accept the CAO offer in the manner shown on the offer notice. Instead, you need to complete the CAO Deferral Request form.  

Please see full details on the steps involved at the following link https://www.tudublin.ie/study/undergraduate/cao/entry-routes/deferred-entry/  

What are my fees? 

Tuition fees vary depending on your programme and student status. Information on fees, payment schedules, and available financial supports can be found on the university's fees webpage. 

You can find a detailed guide on our EU undergraduate fees at https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/fees-grants/full-time-undergraduate-fees/. 

International students should refer to the details at https://www.tudublin.ie/study/international/fees--registration/fees---funding/. 

How do I pay my fees? 

A detailed guide on how to pay fees is available at https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/fees-grants/pay-fees-online/  

What financial supports are available? 

You can find detailed information about applying for a student grant at the following link: 

https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/fees-grants/grant-information/   

Details on additional financial supports can be found at:  

https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/financial-support/  

You may also find the studentfinance.ie website useful. 

I haven't received confirmation of my grant yet. Can I still register? 

In many cases, students awaiting confirmation of an approved grant can still complete registration by providing their grant application details during the registration process.

What scholarships or bursaries are available for new students?

TU Dublin offers a range of scholarships and bursaries. More information is available on the Scholarships page. https://www.tudublin.ie/study/scholarships/ 

What happens after I accept my offer? 

After you have accepted your offer you will receive an email, from getonline@tudublin.ie with instructions on how to activate your TU Dublin student email account. This email will be sent to the email address that you supplied to the CAO. Once you have activated your University email account, you will receive a separate Invitation To Register (ITR) email from our Registration Office. This ITR email will contain information about completing your online registration and fee payment.  

Further information can be found at https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/starting-at-tu-dublin/getting-started/ 

When will I receive my registration invitation? 

Once you have activated your University email account, you will receive a separate Invitation To Register (ITR)email from our Registration Office. This ITR email will contain information about completing your online registration and fee payment.  

When is Orientation? 

All incoming first-year students will be invited to join us for an Orientation session on your chosen TU Dublin campus. Full details on key dates are available at https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/starting-at-tu-dublin/getting-started/orientation/about/  

When will I receive my timetable? 

Timetables are published before the start of term. Students will also receive details on accessing their timetable during their orientation. Students can access their timetable online once they are registered and they should contact their academic school if any issues arise. You can view the academic calendar for the year.

When do I receive my student card? 

First Year students will collect their Student ID Cards during Orientation. Further details on this can be found at https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/starting-at-tu-dublin/getting-started/student-id-cards/  

I'm having difficulty uploading my student ID photo. What should I do? 

If you're experiencing problems uploading your student ID photograph, contact Student Services or the Registration Office for assistance. Please see guidance at the following link https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/student-hubs/student-id-card/

How do I access my student email? 

When you register as a TU Dublin student you will receive an email to your personal account containing your student email address and a temporary password. 

With this information, you can activate your TU Dublin email account. Please see the following page for full details https://www.tudublin.ie/connect/technology-services/getting-started/new-student/ 

Can I transfer to another TU Dublin course? 

The following link provides an explanation of the various processes involved when transferring, progressing or requesting re-admission into a fulltime undergraduate course. 

https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/returning-students/transfer-progression--re-admission-/  

I can’t pay my fees 

The University has set up a dedicated fees helpline at 01 220 6000, available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, to provide support and assistance to students. 

Do I need a laptop? 

A laptop is recommended for most students, as many courses include online learning. You should ideally have a reliable internet connection and a computer capable of accessing the university's virtual learning environment. Specific hardware requirements may vary depending on your programme. Students will be briefed during orientation on specific requirements. Note that students can also borrow laptops from our libraries and each campus is fully equipped with computer labs which students can use. 

Do I need books or specific equipment? 

In most cases, required reading is available through the university library and online resources. Some programmes may recommend specific equipment or software, and you'll receive further information during orientation. Student's will be briefed during orientation on specific requirements. 

How do I register for my course? (dates and details to be confirmed for August 2024) 

About 5 days after Round 1 offers are issues, applicants who accepted an offer at TU Dublin will receive two emails to the personal email address they provided on their CAO application 

1) Get online a TU Dublin – this email contains instructions on how to setup your student email, access brightspace etc.   

2) ITR (invitation to register) from the Registration Office.  

Contact details for the Registrations Office 

https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/registration/contact-us/ 

I am having trouble registering for my course/modules

Our Registration Office will be able to advise you. Contact details can be found at: https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/registration/contact-registration-office/ 

I need a letter confirming my attendance at college.

You cannot be issued with a letter confirming you are registered or attending college until your registration is complete.  Please contact relevant Student Hub Desk .

When will I receive my student card?

Students will receive their student card during orientation.  Please read the instructions in your registration email or online here  

Please contact relevant Student Hub Desk 

https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/student-hubs/contact-us/ 

I previously attended TU Dublin but did not complete my studies, now I wish to return

 Please contact the relevant School Office/Head of Department  and ask them to liaise with the relevant Registration Office  

I am currently a TU Dublin student completing Level 7. How do I progress to Level 8?

Once you have completed Level 7 and passed all your exams you will automatically receive an invitation to progress to Level 8 of your course for Tallaght and Blanchardstown Campus. 

I have failed some of my exams and want to resit them.

Please contact the Examinations Office on https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/examinations/contact-us/ 

I need a transcript of my exam results  

Please contact the Examinations Office on  

https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/examinations/contact-us/ 

What will my Timetable or Schedule be? 

Full Time - You will receive your schedule during orientation in September.  For full time courses students are expected to be available Monday to Friday between 9-6pm.   Students may have a late start one day or an early finish but your timetable will not be available until orientation.  We understand that students are keen to know the timetable as early as possible. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the set timetable until teaching begins. The schedule for part-time courses is available on each course page. 

 

 

Can I transfer to another TU Dublin course? 

The following link provides an explanation of the various processes involved when transferring, progressing or requesting re-admission into a fulltime undergraduate course https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/returning-students/transfer-progression--re-admission-/  

Can I resume my studies after taking time away? 

Yes. Please see details at the following link for advice on the steps involved: https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/returning-students/transfer-progression--re-admission-/  

Can I defer my place? 

In order to request a deferral an applicant must firstly have been offered a place through CAO.  

In this case, Do not accept the CAO offer in the manner shown on the offer notice. Instead, you need to complete the CAO Deferral Request form.  

Please see full details on the steps involved at the following link https://www.tudublin.ie/study/undergraduate/cao/entry-routes/deferred-entry/ 

Who should I contact about admissions?

Tel: +353 1 220 6100;  Email: admissions@tudublin.ie

Who should I contact about registration?

Contact details for our Registrations Office can be found at: https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/registration/contact-registration-office/ 

I have a question about a Postgraduate course/Master’s Course 

Full details about our postgraduate courses are detailed on our Postgraduate Hub. 

Our postgraduate team are happy to help with any questions you may have – see contact details for the team at: https://www.tudublin.ie/study/postgraduate/contact-us/  

I have a question about making an international application. 

Please contact our International Office. On the following page you will find details for our Regional Coordinators and for our International Admissions team: https://www.tudublin.ie/study/international/choosing-tu-dublin/contact-us/  

I have a question about a part-time course 

Full details about our part-time courses are detailed on our part-time course pages https://www.tudublin.ie/study/part-time/  

Our lifelong learning team are happy to help with any questions you may have – see contact details for the team at: https://www.tudublin.ie/study/part-time/contact-us/  

I have a question about a springboard course 

Springboard+ is an upskilling initiative that offers a range of free and subsidised courses at certificate, degree, and master’s levels. These courses are designed to allow individuals to gain qualifications in areas with employment opportunities in the economy. Springboard+ courses at TU Dublin are created with industry, ensuring they are relevant and provide graduates with up-to-date skills and knowledge. Courses are typically offered part-time for a maximum of 12 months, allowing people to continue with their existing commitments. 

Full details can be found at https://www.tudublin.ie/study/springboard/  

Any queries relating to springboard courses can be directed to:  

T: +353 1 220 7432 
E: springboard@tudublin.ie 

Where can I get help if I'm struggling with my studies? 

If you find yourself falling behind, it's best to seek support as soon as possible. Your first step is to talk to your lecturer or course coordinator. They can clarify course material, discuss assignment expectations, and point you toward additional resources. 

If stress, anxiety, or personal issues are making it difficult to study, TU Dublin offers a free and confidential counselling service. Looking after your wellbeing can have a positive impact on your academic performance. https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/student-wellbeing/counselling-service/  

Additional supports that students find particularly beneficial are provided via the Academic Writing & Learning Centre (AWLC), the Computing Learning Centre (CLC), and at the Mathematics Learning Centre (MLC). 

You can find full details at: https://www.tudublin.ie/for-students/student-services-and-support/academic-support/ 

The Student Hub is your first point of contact if you're unsure where to get help. Staff can refer you to academic support services, counselling, disability support, financial assistance, or other specialist services.