Study in Ireland Without IELTS 2024: Universities List, Process, Eligibility

Study in Ireland Without IELTS 2024: Universities List, Process, Eligibility

Edited By Prabhjyot Kaur | Updated on Oct 11, 2024 02:39 PM IST

One of the major concerns for international students is to study in Ireland without IELTS 2024. It is one of the country's most accepted English proficiency tests; however, students explore their options to study in Ireland Without IELTS to ease their application process. But what if it is said that studying in Ireland is possible without IELTS exam? Yes, this is one of the benefits of studying in Ireland that it is home to Ireland universities without IELTS mandatory requirements. Moreover, there are very impressively ranked cheap universities in Ireland without IELTS for international students; this helps them to financially afford the study abroad dream with quality education.

So, Ireland is one of the countries where you do not require the IELTS to pursue your higher education. It offers courses in English but IELTS is not mandatory for admission purposes. For admission to certain courses, the candidate need not necessarily take the IELTS exam but there are other English language proficiency test options. Read further to learn about how to study in Ireland without IELTS. We have included some of the top universities in Ireland for international students without IELTS for references.
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Study in Ireland without IELTS: English Language Requirement

If you are not from an English-speaking country and wish to study in Ireland, then you must show your proficiency in English though not necessarily by writing the IELTS exam. Many universities in Ireland offer courses in English for international students who want to study without taking the IELTS exam.

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Want to study in Ireland? Explore Universities & Courses

There are more than 90 English language teaching organizations (ELTOS) recognized by the Department of Education and Skills in Ireland that offer courses for international students. Another alternative to study without the IELTS is to take English proficiency tests such as TOEFL and PTE. Some Ireland universities without IELTS requirements consider the application of international students who have completed their high school education or graduated from an institution where English is the medium of instruction.

The IELTS Ireland requirements vary by university. Generally, the Ireland study visa IELTS requirement is 5.0 for pursuing any course. For studying any English preparatory course, the Ireland IELTS score requirements are a minimum of 4.0 score. To avoid this IELTS exam for student visas and universities in Ireland, the authorities also consider alternative options of other English proficiency tests

Does Ireland require IELTS: Exemptions

As mentioned earlier there are no IELTS requirements for Ireland, if your previous education or qualifying degree was taught in English. Ireland IELTS can also be exempted if the candidate has finished the previous education at an institution where the medium of instruction was English.

You will have to provide an official declaration or certificate from the institution to prove that your previous education was in the English language. Hence, IELTS for Ireland is not mandatory.

How to Apply to Universities in Ireland for international students without IELTS?

To get admission in Ireland universities without IELTS, follow the steps, mentioned below:

Step 1: Shortlist universities: Choose a suitable Ireland university without IELTS requirement, that have the courses you wish to study. Once you have done this check the ranking of these universities and then go to the official website of these universities to check the eligibility requirements, cost etc. Check which of these universities do not require IELTS scores in order to apply. You can now apply to these most suitable universities. You will have to apply online to the selected colleges.

Step 2: Online test or video interview: If you are selected by any of these universities then you may have to give an online test or video interview as per the schedule given by the university. The test or interview or maybe both are designed to test your English language proficiency. If you clear it, then your admission is confirmed.

Step 3: Pay your tuition fee: Once you get a letter of acceptance from a university in Ireland that is ready to admit you without an IELTS score, you will have to pay the tuition fee. After you receive the acceptance letter from the university, you should pay the tuition fee. The amount depends on the course and the university. You can apply for scholarships that are provided by various higher educational institutions and the government in Ireland, especially for international students.

Step 4: Apply for an Ireland student visa: The next step is to apply for a student visa for Ireland. The important question is whether you need an IELTS score to apply for the visa, the answer is this is not necessary. If you have received an acceptance letter from an Irish university and the letter mentions that you do not have to submit an IELTS score, then you are exempted from providing it in your visa application.

Alternative English Language Tests to Study in Ireland without IELTS 2024

Some colleges and universities in Ireland do not insist on IELTS scores, they accept scores of other language proficiency tests. This is usually decided by the institution. Some of the tests whose scores are accepted include:

Other than IELTS, many universities offer pre-sessional English programs and English language pathway programs for students who need to improve their English proficiency before starting their degree programmes. These programmes are designed to help students meet the language requirements for admission and ensure they have the necessary language skills to succeed in their studies. Hence, many universities in Ireland for international students without IELTS accept these tests.

Pre-sessional English Programs: Pre-sessional English programs are intensive courses that focus on developing students' English language skills in academic contexts. These programs typically last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the student's starting level of English proficiency and the university's requirements. Pre-sessional courses cover a range of language skills, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking, as well as academic skills such as critical thinking, research, and presentation skills.

English Language Pathway Programs: English language pathway programs are designed for students who do not meet the English language requirements for direct entry into a degree program. These programs offer a structured pathway for students to improve their English language skills while studying academic subjects related to their chosen field of study. Upon successful completion of an English language pathway program, students can progress to their degree program without having to retake the IELTS exam.

Both pre-sessional English programs and English language pathway programs provide students with the opportunity to improve their English language skills in a supportive and academic environment. These programs can help students build the confidence and language proficiency needed to succeed in their studies and achieve their academic goals.

List of Ireland Universities without IELTS

To study in Ireland without IELTS 2024, there are some universities in Ireland for international students that allow international students to study in Ireland without IELTS requirements. Among them, Maynooth University is the cheapest university in Ireland without IELTS. Here is a list of some of the top Ireland universities for international students without IELTS in the table below. Most of the colleges mentioned are among the cheap universities in Ireland without IELTS which benefits Indian students seeking education abroad with financial constraints.

Top Universities in Ireland for international students without IELTS

Universities

QS Ranking 2025

Trinity College Dublin

87

Dublin City University

421

University of Limerick

421

University College Cork

273

National College of Ireland

N/A

Maynooth University

801-850

University College Dublin

126

National University of Ireland, Galway

273

Dublin Business School

N/A

Griffith University

255

Admission Process to get into Ireland Universities Without IELTS

Whether it is a regular or one of the cheap universities in Ireland without IELTS, students are required to follow a process. Hence, getting admission in Ireland universities without IELTS involves several steps, including:

  1. Apply to Irish Universities Online: Start by researching top universities in Ireland that offer programs without requiring IELTS. Check their websites for application requirements and deadlines. Most universities in Ireland allow online applications, making it easier for international students to apply from anywhere in the world.
  2. Attend Video Interviews or Online Tests: Some universities may require you to attend a video interview or take an online English proficiency test as an alternative to IELTS. These interviews or tests are designed to assess your English language skills and determine your eligibility for admission.
  3. Apply for Student Scholarships: Many universities in Ireland offer scholarships for international students, including those who do not have an IELTS score. These scholarships can help cover tuition fees and living expenses, making studying in Ireland more affordable.
  4. Submit Proof of English Proficiency: While IELTS may not be required, you may still need to demonstrate your English proficiency through other means. This could include submitting certificates from English language courses or providing a statement from your previous university confirming that the medium of instruction was English.
  5. Provide Strong Academic Background: Universities in Ireland also consider your academic background and achievements when assessing your application. Make sure to provide transcripts, certificates, and any other relevant documents to showcase your academic qualifications.
  6. Prepare a Strong Personal Statement: A well-written personal statement can strengthen your application and help you stand out from other applicants. Use this opportunity to explain why you are interested in studying in Ireland and how you plan to contribute to the university community.

By following these steps and meeting the requirements set by the universities, you can increase your chances of getting admission to universities in Ireland without IELTS.

Alternative Provisions to Study in Ireland without IELTS 2024

Students from countries where English is not the first language can study in Ireland provided they show some level of proficiency in the English language. Some of the universities here even offer English language classes for students who do not have IELTS scores but wish to improve their proficiency.

As you can see, the IELTS is not mandatory to study in Ireland. But if you wish to study here without IELTS, then you will have to select particular universities or courses where the IELTS is not required. The caveat is you will have to ensure that you are comfortable with the English language in terms of speaking, conversing, and understanding. This is to assure the university that you will be able to understand the course or program taught in English. You need to have a basic level of proficiency in the English language for living in Ireland.

IELTS is not mandatory for studying in Ireland. Some universities accept applications from students without an IELTS score. In case you do not wish to take the IELTS exam in order to study abroad, Ireland will be a good option for you.

Student visa for Ireland Universities without IELTS

Getting a student visa for Ireland is necessary if the candidate plans to pursue their higher education in Ireland. Students need to provide English language proficiency if they are non-native English speakers. IELTS is among the most popular English language tests.

International Students who have not yet taken the IELTS exam or are worried about their IELTS test scores, can easily apply for a Student visa for Ireland without IELTS. Students can provide evidence of the other English Language Proficiency. To know the score band required for these additional English language tests check out the table mentioned below:

English Language Test Requirement for Visa:

Exams

Minimum scores required

Cambridge English Language Assessments

(CELA)

Pass in Preliminary English Test or Pass in

  • First Certificate in English

  • Cambridge English: Advanced

  • Cambridge English: Proficiency

  • Business English Certificate (Higher or Vantage)

Duolingo English Test

55-75

English Test for Academic and Professional Purposes (ETAPP)

B1- B2

International English Language Competency Assessment (IELCA)

B1- B2

PTE (academics)

30

TOEFL

47 to 61

Oxford Test of English

81-100

Skills for English Four Facet Test

B1- B2

LanguageCert International ESOL

B1- B2

LanguageCert Academic

40-60

Trinity College London

Integrated Skills in English ISE I (B1) to Integrated Skills in English ISE II (B2)

The minimum score ranges from 2nd level and foundation level or preparatory English course to all other courses (not 2nd level and not preparatory English)

Documents required for Study Visa for Ireland

  • Visa application form: register for visa application form and follow the application form instructions on submitting supporting documents

  • A letter of enrolment: this letter is allotted from the university end through email once the candidate confirms the enrolment to the university.

  • Paid the tuition fees: by paying the fees to the university, candidates provide the financial confirmation to the immigration authority.

  • Two recent coloured passport-size photographs: the photographs should not be more than 6 months old

  • A valid passport

  • Evidence of English proficiency test.

  • Private Medical Insurance cover is required that should be valid in Ireland

If the candidate needs or plans to stay longer than 90 days they have to register themself after the arrival in Ireland.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I study in Ireland without IELTS?

Yes, you can study in Ireland without IELTS. Many universities accept TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, or PTE as alternatives to study in Ireland without IELTS. Students can check the university website to check English language requirements for specific programmes.  

2. Are English proficiency tests required for studying in Ireland?

English proficiency tests are required to study in Ireland though you need not necessarily write the IELTS because some universities here grant exemption from the IELTS.  You also get an exemption if you have finished your previous education from an institution where English was the medium of instruction.

3. Is IELTS required for ireland student visa?

IELTS is not a mandatory requirement, the candidate can also show the English proficiency test score of other tests like  PTE, TOEFL, CELA for the Ireland student visa.

4. Can I work in Ireland without IELTS?

For job purposes, IELTS is not the mandatory requirement in Ireland but attaining a good score in IELTS can increase the chance of succeeding in the application process.

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Correct Answer: during


Solution : The correct choice is the first option.

The sentence implies that red kites were viewed as vermin in Britain and Ireland, specifically during the 16th century. The use of during emphasises the temporal relationship, indicating that this negative perception was prevalent in that particular historical period.

The meanings of the other options are as follows:

  • Along means in the course of; over the length of.
  • While means at the same time as; during the time that.
  • Across means over the surface of; from one side to the other.

Therefore, the complete sentence is: "Red kites were considered vermin across Britain and Ireland during the 16th century."

Correct Answer: MLIDZB


Solution : Given:
ASIA is written as ZHRZ, and IRELAND is written as RIVOZMW.

Write the opposite pair of each letter of ASIA to obtain the required code –
A→Z; S→H; I→R; A→Z
Thus, ASIA is coded as ZHRZ.
And in, IRELAND is written as RIVOZMW –
I→R; R→I; E→V; L→O; A→Z; N→M; D→W
Thus, IRELAND is coded as RIVOZMW.
Similarly, follow the same pattern for NORWAY–
N→M; O→L; R→I; W→D; A→Z; Y→B

So, NORWAY is coded as MLIDZB. Hence, the second option is correct.

Correct Answer: controlled


Solution : The correct choice is the third option.

The phrase "and their numbers were rigorously controlled" indicates that deliberate measures were taken to manage or limit the population of red kites. The word controlled appropriately reflects the idea of active management or regulation, making it the most fitting choice.

The meanings of the other options are as follows:

  • Changed means altered or modified.
  • Choked means hindered or obstructed.
  • Loosened means made less tight or strict; relaxed.

Therefore, the right word to fill in the blank is controlled.

Correct Answer: killed


Solution : The correct choice is the second option.

The sentence indicates that 20 red kites were confirmed to have been killed in the UK as a result of the actions of shooting, poisoning, and trapping mentioned earlier in the passage. The term killed signifies a fatal outcome caused by these harmful actions.

The meanings of the other options are as follows:

  • Awakened means woken up from sleep or inactivity.
  • Subjected means exposed to a particular experience or treatment.
  • Rooted means fixed or established deeply.

Therefore, the complete sentence is: "In 2020 alone, 20 red kites were confirmed to have been killed this way in the UK."

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