Extended International Foundation ProgrammeClár Fondúireacht Idirnáisiúnta Leathnaithe

The Extended International Foundation Programme (IFP) is a one year, three semester programme. It has been developed for international students who need language and/or academic preparation for further study on undergraduate programmes in Ireland. Upon successful completion of the programme and International Foundation Certificate (Special Purpose Award, Level 6, 60 ECTS Credits) will be awarded by TU Dublin and you will be guaranteed a place on your undergraduate programme of choice at TU Dublin.

Why study on the Extended IFP?

• This is your first step towards gaining a degree in Ireland
• It makes the transition to third level education in Ireland much easier
• It provides a supportive, student-centred learning environment
• You will study a range of Academic English modules and modules related to your discipline of choice
• You will have full access to TU Dublin facilities and support services
• The campus is located in Dublin city centre
• You are guaranteed entry to your destination degree upon successful completion of IFP and on meeting the rules of progression as set by the individual schools.
• Students can join the programme with IELTS 4.5

What is the Learning & Teaching Style?

• You will be taught by highly qualified and very experienced TU Dublin academics and English language tutors
• The programme takes a communicative teaching & learning approach and is task-based and integrated in its delivery
• There are lots of opportunities to practice English through group work with Irish and non-Irish students
• The class sizes are small to ensure that there is maximum support from lecturers
• There is additional one-to-one Maths & English support
• Learning will involve many different styles of third level teaching such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, cultural trips and online learning
• You will learn how to take control of your own learning and will reflect on your learning experience throughout the programme
• There are regular student support meetings with the IFP Coordinator

To join the programme, students should have IELTS 4.5, with no less than 4.5 in any one Band, or equivalent. Students joining the programme should have completed their High School education in their home country. We accept a wide range of local and international high school qualifications including IGCSE, GCE, WASC. Your local qualifications should be equivalent to Irish NFQ Level 4 or more. Visit NARIC Ireland Foreign Qualifications for further information.

Classes take place from Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 6:00pm. Hours on the programme vary depending on subject choice, but most students will have 24 hours of lessons per week.

International Students (Non-EU) 

Applications for this course are now open.

• Apply Online Non-EU - November 2025 Intake

Applications from international students are welcome for this programme. If you meet any of the following criteria, applications should be made directly to TU Dublin via the “Apply Now – Non-EU” link on each programme webpage.

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

For full details on How to Apply, Visa & Immigration Information, Accommodation Information and International Fees, please visit our International Hub.