What is a Language Waiver
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To be offered a place in Trinity you must:
- Present six subjects, three of which must be at grade C or above on higher Leaving Certificate papers or at least grade C in the University Matriculation examination
The six subjects above must include:
- A pass in English
- A pass in mathematics
- A pass in a language other than English
TCD Language Waiver
Students with specific learning difficulties and hearing disabilities may apply for a waiver of the modern language requirement during the second level school senior cycle.
In addition, students with dyscalculia may be eligible to request exemption from the matriculation requirement of a pass in mathematics, where mathematics does not form any part of their intended course.
This is a separate application to the DARE supplementary admissions process. To apply for a Language Waiver write to the Admissions Office in Trinity College by 1st July, and include a copy of your disability evidence.
If you have an exemption from studying Irish, and you have not been studying a modern foreign language in school, you need to apply to Trinity for a 'waiver' for the language part of matriculation. Watch this podcast for more information. An application form is available in the 'Download documents' section of this website.
NUI Language Waiver
The NUI Language Waiver is completely separate from the Trinity Language Waiver. Information on the NUI arrangements can be found on their website.
Even if you have an NUI waiver you still need to apply to the Admissions Office in Trinity.
- Students applying to NUI colleges who were born and had all their education in the Republic of Ireland must present Irish (at least Grade D at Ordinary Level) to matriculate to college.
- Students born outside of the Republic of Ireland or educated for a number of years in another country, may apply to the NUI for an exemption from the Irish language requirement.
- Students with specific learning difficulties (dyslexia) may also apply for exemption from Irish.