Foundation and Pathway Programs

Building strong foundations for academic success and creating clear pathways to your future career.

International Foundation Programmes in Ireland Summary for International Students

University / College Course Name Start Dates IELTS Requirement Tuition Fee (International Students) Progression to Degree
TU Dublin International Foundation Year Programme (TU697) Sept 2025, Jan 2026 Typically 1 band below direct entry (around IELTS 5.0) €12,500
  • Guaranteed progression to TU Dublin undergraduate programmes
  • Business, Science, Engineering, Social Science
TUS (Technological University of the Shannon) International Foundation Programme Sept intake (apply by 1st June) IELTS 5.0 (or equivalent) €11,000
  • Progression to TUS undergraduate programmes
  • Engineering, Science, Business, Social Sciences, Creative Arts
DCU (Dublin City University) International Foundation Year (DC555) Sept intake Designed for students below direct entry (Direct UG entry = IELTS 6.5 overall, 6.0 each band) Varies by stream (Business, Engineering, Science, Humanities). Plus NCUK fees.
  • Guaranteed progression to DCU undergraduate degrees in chosen stream
DKIT (Dundalk Institute of Technology) Certificate in Foundation Studies Sept – June or Jan – Aug (2 semesters) IELTS 4.5 (or equivalent) €7,545 (includes mandatory health insurance & sports fee)
  • Enables entry into Year 1 of selected Bachelor programmes at DKIT
  • Subject to achieving required grades