Introduction
Founded in 1854 (originally as the Catholic University of Ireland), University College Dublin (UCD) is Ireland’s largest university and one of the world’s leading institutions for research and education. Located on a spacious Belfield campus just south of Dublin’s city centre, UCD blends historic charm with modern facilities. It is recognized for its academic excellence, sustainability leadership, and career-focused education.
To learn more about University College Dublin, book a free consultation with LCI Group today!
Key Statistics
- International Student Population: Over 9,500 students
- Student‑Staff Ratio: Approximate 16:1
- Acceptance Rate: 20%
Accreditation and Affiliations
- Publicly funded and recognized by the Irish Government; part of the National University of Ireland
- Member of major academic networks: EUA, IUA, Universitas 21, EUt+
- Triple‑accredited Smurfit Graduate Business School (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA)
- Holds Bronze Athena SWAN award for gender equality in STEM
Academic Information
Programs Offered
- Offers over 600 undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across fields including Arts, Engineering, Science, Business, Law, Medicine, Veterinary Science, and Humanities
- Specialized strengths in Nursing, Veterinary Science, Petroleum Engineering, and English Language & Literature (all ranked in global top 50)
- Business degrees offered through Quinn School and Smurfit Graduate Business School, with international-level recognition
Tuition Fees
- Undergraduate International Students: Typically around €20,000/year depending on program
- Postgraduate International Students: Range from €13,000 to €27,500/year depending on programme (e.g., engineering ≈ €14k; architecture or MBA up to €27.5k)
Admission Requirements
- Undergraduate: Strong academic record (e.g., CBSE ~85%+ equivalent); high CAO points for competitive programs like medicine
- Postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree; IELTS 6.5+ or equivalent English proficiency
Rankings and Recognition
- QS World University Rankings 2026: 118
- THE World University Rankings 2025: 201–250
Campus Facilities
- 133-hectare Belfield campus with modern libraries, labs, sports centre, theaters, and student hubs
- Smurfit Business School campus in Blackrock offers specialist business facilities
- On-campus facilities: Student Learning Development, Global Room, counseling, Cuimhnich Sports Centre, Trinity Hall residences, clubs & societies
Support Services
International Student Support
- Trinity Global Room and International Student Experience team assist with accommodation, visas, orientation, peer mentoring, and cultural integration
- Student Learning Development offers workshops, writing support, and academic guidance
Career Services
- Career Development Centre provides CV/interview workshops, job fairs, employer networking, and career coaching
- ~93% graduate placement rate supported by 800+ industry partners
Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Global Excellence Scholarships: 50% or 100% tuition awards for outstanding non‑EU students (must apply after securing an offer)
- International Student Scholarships: Automatic partial tuition consideration based on offer status—no separate application required
- Additional awards: Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships, Brian Mullins Ambassador Award, Universitas 21 Alumni Scholarship, HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Scholarship, and Smurfit MBA‑specific scholarship
Study at University College Dublin
UCD offers a world-class, research-intensive educational experience in progressive Dublin surroundings. With global rankings, triple-accredited business programs, modern infrastructure, expansive student life, and exceptional support, UCD nurtures international talent toward sustainable academic and professional success.
To study at University College Dublin, book a free consultation with LCI Group today and begin your application for upcoming intakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
For undergraduate degrees, especially in Medicine or Engineering, admission is highly competitive (~33.5% acceptance rate and high CAO points required).
Approximately 5,800 international students, which is around 30% of total enrollment, from over 120 countries.
UCD offers Global Excellence Scholarships (50%–100% tuition) and automatic International Student Scholarships, plus additional branded awards and scholarships for specific countries or programs.
Top subject rankings include Veterinary Science (33), Nursing (44), English Language & Literature (41). The Smurfit Business School is internationally ranked and holds triple accreditation.
Extensive services include pre-arrival guidance, visa and accommodation help, peer mentoring, academic workshops, health/counseling services, and a supportive campus community via the Global Room and Student Learning Development.