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Do I need to give IELTS or TOEFL for admission in Ireland?

04 Sept 2026 · Answered by Shairal Pathak · 1 min read
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Yes, if your first language is not English, but IELTS or TOEFL are not your only options. Irish universities also accept PTE Academic, Duolingo, and Cambridge exams. Typical minimums are IELTS 6.0 to 6.5 for undergraduate, 6.5 to 7.0 for postgraduate, or you may qualify for a full waiver.

Shairal Pathak
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You generally need to prove English proficiency for Irish university admission if your first language is not English, but you are not locked into IELTS or TOEFL specifically. Irish institutions and immigration authorities recognise several alternative tests, so you have real flexibility in how you meet this requirement.

Accepted Tests And Typical Score Requirements

TestTypical Minimum Score
IELTS Academic (undergraduate)6.0 to 6.5
IELTS Academic (postgraduate)6.5 to 7.0 or higher
TOEFL iBT80 to 92 or higher
Duolingo English Test110 to 120 or higher

When You Can Waive The Requirement

  • You completed your secondary school or a prior degree fully taught and examined in English, usually proven with a Medium of Instruction letter from your previous institution.
  • You hold citizenship of a majority English-speaking country.
  • PTE Academic and Cambridge CAE or CPE are also accepted at most higher education institutions, so compare fees and test dates before committing to one.

My Advice

Request your Medium of Instruction letter from your previous college as early as possible, since it can save you weeks of test preparation if your Irish university accepts it in place of IELTS or TOEFL.

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