Admission Requirements
Entry to programmes at Trinity is competitive, and based on academic merit. The information below will give you guidelines on assessing whether your previous qualifications and experience will meet the admissions standards required for entry into your preferred course.
If you have any unanswered questions after reading through this information please don't hesitate to contact Trinity through our Contact Us page.
To qualify for admission to a degree course at the University you must meet the requirements outlined in further detail in the tabs below. For more information on what you must include in your application, please see our detailed guide on Making an Application.
Some of the information on this website will refer to admissions standards for the Irish Leaving Certificate. You should use the grade equivalences provided for the examination system you are taking to compare those Leaving Certificate standards to your grades.
The grade equivalences are guidelines only and for some examination systems it is not possible to provide exact comparison. Trinity Academic Registry will make final decision on all applications.
Alternative Paths to Trinity
There are many different ways to come to University and Trinity encourages applicants from all backgrounds and circumstances to apply. For more information on alternative paths to Trinity, such as:
Mature students
Advanced entry transfers
Applicants with a disability/language waivers
Access programmes
Check out our page on Alternative Paths to Trinity
How to Qualify for Admission to Trinity College Dublin
1) Meet the minimum matriculation requirements.
2) Meet the age requirement.
3) Meet English language requirements.
Students whose first language is not English, or who do not have a pass in English in their recognized school system, must display a high level of competence in the English language. Details on accepted English language qualifications are provided further down this page.
4) Satisfy course specific requirements
Some courses will have additional requirements for admission.
They will be detailed on the relevant course page at www.tcd.ie/courses as well as below.
5) Satisfy any additional requirements or restrictions as detailed in the sections below.
6) Meet competitive standards for admission to the course.
Please note that posted scores are minimum entrance requirements only and do not guarantee admission. Where places are competitive, a student must have excellent examination results to qualify for a place on their preferred course.
For applicants applying through the CAO you must meet the minimum "CAO Points" requirement for the course. Information on this is available at the bottom of this page.
Minimum matriculation requirements
The minimum matriculation requirements refer to the basic standard of application you must meet to be considered. Anything less than this will be unsuccessful outright - however meeting the matriculation requirements does not guarantee admission.
The standard matriculation requirements are pass grades in English, Mathematics, a language other than English, and a full set of valid subjects for your examination system.
Full details of the specific matriculation requirements for the country you're applying from are available on your country's admission page.
Age Requirement
Applicants seeking admission in 2019 must have a date of birth before 15 January 2003.
English Language Requirements
All applicants must present an English language qualification. Accepted/Permitted English language qualifications are:
- Irish Leaving Certificate: a grade D3 or better in Ordinary level English.
Candidates presenting the Irish Leaving Certificate are normaly expected to complete English as part of their examination programme."
.
- GCSE: a grade C or better in English Language.
- European Baccalaureate:
English: 6 in 1st Language, or in 1st or 2nd Foreign language.
- French Baccalaureate:
Students presenting the OIB or International Option of the French Baccalaureate may satisfy the English language requirement by achieving a minimum of 12 (where the coefficient is greater than 5) in English Language and Literature. In cases where the coefficient is less than 5, a minimum result of 14 will be required.
- International Baccalaureate:
English A1, A2 or B: 5 at Higher Level (4 at either Level if presenting IB through English).
- US High School:
a grade C in English taken in final year.
- TOEFL:
- Internet based 90 (with a written score of 21).
- Internet based 90 (with a written score of 21).
- University of Cambridge:
- 180+ on Cambridge English scale with no less than 175 in each skill and use of English i.e.
- Proficiency Certificate, Grade C or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2)
- Advanced Certificate, Grade C or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2)
- First Certificate, Grade A (CEFR Level C1)
- 180+ on Cambridge English scale with no less than 175 in each skill and use of English i.e.
- IELTS: (Academic version) 6.5 (no individual band below 6)
- For Dental courses: IELTS (academic version) 7 (no individual band below 7).
- For Clinical speech and language studies: IELTS (academci version) 7 (no individual band below 7)
- Pearson Test of English (Academic) - PTE Academic: a minimum score of 63 (with no section score below 59).
- QQI/FETAC: Pass in Communications module (5N0690).
Additional Notes
- Examination results for tests 7-11 above are only valid for 2 years.
- Students who do not meet the minimum English language requirement can apply for the International Foundation Programme before progressing on to selected courses.
Course Specific Requirements
Honors Subjects
| Course Code | Name | Specific Subjects Required | Available Places in 2018 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Higher level Leaving Certificate or | Advanced GCE (A-Level) grades) | |||
| TR002 | Music | see note 5 | see note 5 | 15 |
| TR003 | History | none | none | 39 |
| TR004 | Law | none | none | 90 |
| TR005 | Philosophy | none | none | 20 |
| TR006 | Psychology | none | none | 31 |
| TR007 | Clinical speech and language studies | see note 4 | see note 4 | 34 |
| TR009 | Music education | see note 5 | see note 5 | 10 |
| TR012 | History and political science | none | none | 24 |
| TR015 | Philosophy, political science, economics & sociology | see note 1 | see note 1 | 34 |
| TR016 | Deaf studies | see note 16 | see note 16 | 20 |
| TR017 | Law and business | see note 1 | see note 1 | 25 |
| TR018 | Law and French | H3 in French | C in French | 15 |
| TR019 | Law and German | H3 in German | C in German | 15 |
| TR020 | Law and political science | none | none | 20 |
| TR021 | Classics, Ancient History and Archaeology | H4 in Greek or Latin or a language other than English | C in Greek or Latin or a language other than English | 15 |
| TR022 | Early and modern Irish | H4 in Irish | C in Irish | 15 |
| TR023 | English studies | H4 in English | H4 in English | 40 |
| TR024 | European studies | see note 8 | see note 8 | 45 |
| TR025 | Drama and theatre studies | see note 12 | see note 12 | 17 |
| TR028 | Ancient and medieval history and culture | none | none | 16 |
| TR029 | Political science and geography | none | none | 15 |
| TR031 | Mathematics | H3 in Mathematics | C in Mathematics | 30 |
| TR032 | Engineering | H4 in Mathematics | C in Mathematics | 185 |
| TR033‡ | Computer science | H4 in Mathematics | C in Mathematics | 100 |
| TR034 | Management science & information systems studies | H4 in Mathematics | C in Mathematics | 27 |
| TR035‡ | Theoretical physics | H3 in Mathematics and H3 in Physics | B in Mathematics and B in Physics | 40 |
| TR038‡ | Engineering with management | H4 in Mathematics | C in Mathematics | 20 |
| TR039 | Computer science and language | see note 21 | see note 21 | 20 |
| TR040 | Religion | none | none | 22 |
| TR051 | Medicine | see notes 3A and 3B | see notes 3A and 3B | 121 |
| TR052 | Dental science | see note 3A | see note 3A | 32 |
| TR053 | Physiotherapy | see notes 1 & 6 | see notes 1 & 6 | 40 |
| TR054 | Occupational therapy | see note 7 | see note 7 | 40 |
| TR055 | Radiation therapy | see note 14 | see note 14 | 30 |
| TR056 | Human health and disease | see note 17 | see note 17 | 35 |
| TR060 | Biological and Biomedical Sciences | see note 1 & 2 | see notes 1 &2 | 235 |
| TR061 | Chemical Sciences | see note 1&2 | see notes 1&2 | 72 |
| TR062 | Geography and Geoscience | see notes 1&2 | see notes 1&2 | 54 |
| TR063 | Physical Sciences | see notes 1&2 | see notes 1&2 | 52 |
| TR072 | Pharmacy | see notes 1 & 9 | see notes 1 & 9 | 75 |
| TR080 | Global Business | see note 1 | see note 1 | 25 |
| TR081 | Business, economic and social studies | see note 1 | see note 1 | 236 |
| TR082 | Computer science and business | see note 18 | see note 18 | 30 |
| TR083 | Sociology and social policy | none | none | 28 |
| TR084 | Social studies (Social work) | none | none | 45 |
| TR085 | Business studies and French | H3 in French & see note 1 | C in French & see note 1 | 15 |
| TR086 | Business studies and German | H3 in German & see note 1 | C in German & see note 1 | 15 |
| TR087 | Business studies and Russian | H4 in a language excluding English & see note 1 | C in a language excluding English & see note 1 | 7 |
| TR089 | Business studies and Polish | H4 in a language excluding English & see note 1 | C in a language excluding English & see note 1 | 5 |
| TR090 | Business studies and Spanish | H3 in Spanish & see note 1 | C in Spanish & see note 1 | 10 |
| TR091 | General nursing | See note 15 | See note 15 | 109 |
| TR093 | General nursing Adelaide School of Nursing | See notes 15 & 16 | See notes 15 & 16 | 33 |
| TR095 | Mental health nursing | See note 15 | See note 15 | 59 |
| TR097 | Intellectual disability nursing | See note 15 | See note 15 | 32 |
| TR911 | Children's and general integrated nursing | See note 15 | See note 15 | 26 |
| TR913 | Midwifery | See note 15 | See note 15 | 44 |
Specific subjects required for other EU countries: See the information above for the Irish Leaving Certificate and compare it with the equivalent grades for your country
Courses are funded by the Irish Government under the National Development Plan.
‡ These courses are funded by the Irish government and the European Union under the European Social Fund (ESF).
Notes:
- A mathematics requirement of grade 4 on the ordinary or grade 6 on the higher Leaving Certificate paper or grade B at GCSE level.
- Two higher level grade 4s (Grade Cs at A Level) from the following subjects: physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry, mathematics, geology, geography, applied mathematics, agricultural science. Physics/chemistry may not be presented with physics or chemistry. Agricultural science may not be presented with biology. Applied mathematics may not be presented with mathematics.
- 3A) A higher level grade 3 and a higher level grade 4 (Grade B and C at A Level) in two of physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry, agricultural science. Physics/chemistry may not be presented with physics or chemistry. Agricultural science may not be presented with biology. If you do not have some qualification in physics, you must present mathematics at grade 4 on the ordinary Leaving Certificate paper, grade 6 on the higher Leaving Certificate paper or grade B at GCSE level.
3B) Applicants must achieve a minimum of 480 points and meet the minimum entry and course specific requirements in the same sitting* of the Leaving Certificate examination. In addition, all applicants will be required to sit the admissions test (HPAT - Ireland) which is scheduled for 23 February 2019. Applicants must register for the test at: www.hpat-ireland.acer.edu.au by 20 January 2019. Further details on the selection criteria are available at: www.tcd.ie/courses or from the Academic Registry: +353 1 896 4500. Applicants should note that application for Medicine must be made online at: www.cao.ie
*A Level applicants must satisfy minimum entry and course specific requirements within three consecutive years, e.g. GCSE (2017), AS (2018), A-Levels (2019)
- A mathematics requirement of grade 6 on the ordinary or higher Leaving Certificate paper or grade C at GCSE level. A grade 4 at higher level in one of English, French, German, Irish, Italian, Russian, Spanish and a grade 4 at higher level in one of mathematics, applied mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry, agricultural science. If you are presenting Advanced GCE (A-levels), a grade C at A-level is required in one of English, French, German, Irish, Italian, Russian, Spanish and a grade B at GCSE level in one of physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics; or a grade C at A-level in one of physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics and a grade B at GCSE level in one of English, French, German, Irish, Italian, Russian, Spanish.
- This is a restricted entry course; therefore, applications must be submitted to the CAO by 1 February of the proposed year of entry. You will be called for an entrance test on 30 March 2019. This will include a simple harmony paper, an ear test, a paper on general musical knowledge and background and an essay paper (TR009 only). Some applicants will be called for interview (and in the case of TR009 applicants, further tests) in late April/early May when the final selections will be made.
- Two higher level grade 4s (Grade Cs at A level) from the following subjects: physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry, mathematics, agricultural science. Physics/chemistry may not be presented with physics or chemistry. Agricultural science may not be presented with biology.
- One higher level grade 4 (Grade C at A Level) from the following subjects: physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry, agricultural science.
- Students entering this programme will study two languages from French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian and Spanish. Italian, Polish, Russian and Spanish are available from beginner level. No student may study more than one language as a beginner. Students accepted onto this programme, subject to the above regulations, will normally have at least a higher level grade 4 in the Leaving Certificate or equivalent, in two of French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish (H3 in the case of French and German, and H4 in the case of Spanish if non-beginner) (Grade C at A Level). Students who have only one language (other than English or Irish) may also be admitted, subject to the above regulations, if they achieve a higher level grade H3 in the language in the Leaving Certificate, or a Grade B at A Level.
- A higher level grade 4 in chemistry or physics/chemistry and a higher level grade 4 in one of physics, biology, mathematics geology,geography applied mathematics and agricultural science (grade C at A Level). Physics/Chemistry may not be presented with Chemistry or Physics to satisfy requirements.
- Two higher level grade 4s (Grade C at A Level) from the following subjects: biology, chemistry, physics, physics/chemistry, mathematics and applied mathematics. Physics/chemistry may not be presented with chemistry or physics. Mathematics may not be presented with applied mathematics.
- A higher level grade 4 in mathematics and a higher level grade 4 in one of physics, chemistry, physics/chemistry or biology. (Grade C at A Level).
- This is a restricted entry course; therefore, applications must be submitted to the CAO by 1 February of the proposed year of entry. If you indicate Drama studies or Drama and theatre studies as a choice of subject, you will be sent a questionnaire to complete in March. On the basis of the completed questionnaire some applicants will be called to attend a workshop and interview (during April/May) before final selections are made.
- Two higher level grade 4s (Grade C at A Level) from the following subjects: physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry, applied mathematics, mathematics. Leaving certificate applicants must present mathematics at ordinary level grade 2 or at higher level grade 4, while A-level applicants must present mathematics at Grade A at GCSE level or Grade C at A-level. Physics/chemistry may not be presented with chemistry or physics. Mathematics may not be presented with applied mathematics.
- One higher level grade 4 (Grade C at A Level) from the following subjects: physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry.
- A grade 6 on the ordinary or higher paper in mathematics and in one of biology, physics, chemistry, physics/chemistry or agricultural science; or a grade C in mathematics and on one of biology, physics, chemistry at GCSE level.
Applicants who have previously been unsuccessful (academic and/or placement) in any Nursing or Midwifery programme or have any issues which would affect their registration with An Bord Altranais will only be considered for re-entry to Nursing or Midwifery on a case-by-case appeal basis to the relevant Programme Board. Such applicants should make their case in writing to the Admissions Officer and include any relevant details of extenuating circumstances.
We can unfortunately not currently accept applications to Nursing or Midwifery programmes from students with Non-EU fee status.
- This is a restricted entry course; therefore, applications must be submitted to the CAO by 1 February of the proposed year of entry. The Adelaide Hospital Society, which is a voluntary charitable organisation, nominates suitable applicants each year to the Adelaide School of Nursing. In selecting applicants, the Society has regard to its particular obligation to applicants from the Protestant community and also to members of inter-church families.
Applicants will be sent an additional application form in mid-March, to be returned to the Adelaide Hospital Society. On the basis of the completed application form, a list of eligible applicants will be selected. Places on this course will then be allocated on the basis of Leaving Certificate points/mature students' written assessment scores.
- A higher level grade 4 in biology and a higher level grade 4 in one of physics, chemistry or physics/chemistry (Grade C at A level).
- A higher level grade 4 or an ordinary level grade 2 in mathematics or grade C at A Level or grade A at GCSE level.
- A higher level grade 4 in English and grade 6 at ordinary or higher level in a language other than English. Grade C at A level English Literature (A or B) or English Literature (A or B) and Grade C in a language other than English at GCSE level
- A higher level grade 3 and a higher level grade 4 (Grade B and C at A Level) in two of physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry. Physics/chemistry may not be presented with physics or chemistry. If you do not have some qualification in physics, you must present mathematics at grade 5 on the ordinary Leaving Certificate paper, grade 6 on the higher Leaving Certificate paper or Grade B at GCSE level.
- A higher level grade 4 in mathematics (Grade C at A Level). Also, a grade 3 at higher level in French, German or Irish. (Grade C at A Level in French or German or Grade B in Irish at A Level.
- Applicants must present at least one European language other than English or Irish. A minimum of a higher level grade 3 (Grade C at A Level) in one of French, German, Greek, Italian, Latin, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Arabic or Hebrew Studies. Where a student is presenting two languages they must attain at least the following grades; a higher level grade 4 if presenting Greek, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Arabic or Hebrew Studies; a higher level grade 3 if presenting French or German. A Level students must present a Grade B at A Level in one of the languages listed above or two Grade Cs at A Level where two languages are being presented.
Joint Honors/Modern Language
Students selection two subjects from the list below.
Students are not permitted to commence two new languages. Students wishing to combine two of: Classical Languages (Greek or Latin), Italian, Russian, Spanish within Joint Honors are required to present at least one of the chosen languages at grade H4 or better on a higher level Leaving Certificate paper or equivalent.
| Subject Name | Specific Subjects Required | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Certificate | Advanced GCE (A-Level) grades | Available Places in 2018 | ||
| AH | Ancient history and archaeology | none | none | 23 |
| CC | Classical Civilisation | none | none | 29 |
| CL | Classical Languages | H4 in Greek, Latin or a language other than English | C in Greek, Latin or a language other than English | 16 |
| DR | Drama studies | see note 3 | see note 3 | 24 |
| EC | Economics | see note 1 | see note 1 | 43 |
| EN | English literature | H4 in English | C in English | 91 |
| FS | Film studies | none | none | 30 |
| GG | Geography ‡ | none | none | 45 |
| HS | History | none | none | 44 |
| AR | History of art and architecture | none | none | 40 |
| ME | Middle Eastern, Jewish and Islamic Civilisations | none | none | 10 |
| ML | Modern Languages | See note 4 | See note 4 | 265 |
| MT | Mathematics | H3 in mathematics | B in mathematics | 25 |
| MU | Music | see note 2 | see note 2 | 20 |
| PH | Philosophy | none | none | 43 |
| RE | Religion | none | none | 22 |
| SC | Sociology | none | none | 59 |
Specific subjects required for other EU countries: See the information above for the Irish Leaving Certificate and compare it with the equivalent grades for your country
Notes
- A mathematics requirement of grade 4 on the ordinary or grade 6 on the higher Leaving Certificate paper or grade B at GCSE level.
- This is a restricted entry course, therefore, applications must be submitted to the CAO by 1 February of the proposed year of entry. You will be called for an entrance test on 30 March 2019. This will include a simple harmony paper, an ear test, a paper on general musical knowledge and background and an essay paper (TR009 only). Some applicants will be called for interview (and in the case of TR009, further tests) in late April/early May when the final selections will be made.
- This is a restricted entry course; therefore, applications must be submitted to the CAO by 1 February of the proposed year of entry. If you indicate Drama studies or Drama and theatre studies as a choice of subject, you will be sent a questionnaire to complete in March. On the basis of the completed questionnaire some applicants will be called to attend a workshop and interview (during April/May) before final selections are made.
- The lanuages available within Modern Language are French, German, Italian, Modern Irish, Russian and Spanish. German, italian, Russian and Spanish are available at beginners level but prior knowledge is required for French and Modern Irish. Students are not permitted to commence to langauges. Applicants wishing to study German, Italian, Russian or Spanish must present a H4 in a language other than English. To be eligible for French or Modern Irish applicants must present a H4 in French or Irish. A Level applicants: To be eligible for French or Modern Irish applicants must present a Grade C at A Level in French or Irish. To study German, Italian, Russian or Spanish a Grade C at A Level in a langauge other than English is required.
Joint Honors/Modern Language
Each possible combination of two subjects has a unique three-digit code. TR followed by the three-digit code of your chosen combination should be entered on the CAO application form e.g. TR262 English Literature and History.
The absence of a code in a grid position indicates that the corresponding combination of subjects is not permitted.
Ordinary Degrees and Diplomas
| Course Code | Name | Specific subjects required | Available places in 2018 |
|---|---|---|---|
| TR801 | Dental nursing (diploma) | See notes A & C | 25 |
| TR802 | Dental hygiene (diploma) | See notes B & C + Restricted entry | 8 |
| TR803 | Dental technology (ordinary degree) | See notes A & C + Restricted entry | 6 |
Notes
A. Applicants are required to present six subjects, including English, mathematics and one of physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry or agricultural science. Of the six subjects presented two must be of a standard of at least grade 4 on ordinary Leaving Certificate papers. The remaining four subjects must be presented to a standard of at least grade 6 on ordinary Leaving Certificate papers.
B. Applicants are required to present six subjects, including English, mathematics and one of physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry or agricultural science. Of the six subjects presented two must be of a standard of at least grade 4 on higher Leaving Certificate papers. The remaining four subjects must be presented to a standard of at least grade 6 on ordinary Leaving Certificate papers.
C. Applications may also be considered from mature applicants who do not satisfy the academic entry requirements but can demonstrate appropriate experience relevant to the course.
Applications for restricted entry courses must be submitted to the CAO by 1 February of the proposed year of entry.
Irish Leaving Certificate
The minimum matriculation requirements for students presenting the Irish Leaving Certificate are:
1) six subjects, three of which must be at grade 5 or above on higher Leaving Certificate papers or at least grade 5 in the University Matriculation examination
2) These six subjects must include:
A pass in English
AND
A pass in mathematics (or foundation-level mathematics (see note 2)) and a pass in a language other than English
OR
a pass in Latin and a pass in a subject other than a language
Additional Notes and Restrictions
- A pass means grade O6/H7 or above on ordinary or higher papers in the Leaving Certificate and grade 7 or above in the University Matriculation examination.
- Mathematics at foundation-level is acceptable for minimum entry requirements only, for all courses except nursing or midwifery courses. Irish at foundation-level is not acceptable for minimum entry requirements, course requirements or for scoring purposes.
- 3. Students may combine grades achieved in different sittings of their Leaving Certificate/Matriculation examinations for the purpose of satisfying minimum entry and/or course requirements, but not for the purposes of scoring. This is not permitted for Medicine.
- Combinations of Leaving Certificate subjects not permitted:
- Physics/Chemistry may not be presented with physics or chemistry
- Biology and agricultural science may not be presented as two of the six subjects required for minimum entry purposes, and they may not be presented together to satisfy course specific requirements. However, both may be used for scoring purposes.
- Art and music may not be offered as two of the three higher Leaving Certificate grades for minimum entry requirements but both may be used for scoring purposes.
Leaving Certificate scoring system
| Grade Level | Higher Level | Ordinary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 100 | 56 |
| 2 | 88 | 46 |
| 3 | 77 | 37 |
| 4 | 66 | 28 |
| 5 | 56 | 20 |
| 6 | 46 | 12 |
| 7 | 37 | n/a |
- Bonus points for higher level Mathematics
All students presenting H6 or above in higher level Mathematics will have 25 points added to their score for Mathematics. The bonus points will only be relevant where Mathematics is scored as one of a student's six best subjects for points purposes.
An applicant's six best results from one sitting of the Leaving Certificate will be counted for scoring purposes. Applicants may combine results from the Leaving Certificate and the Trinity Matriculation examination of the same year for scoring purposes.
Leaving Certificate Vocational Programm
e Link Modules are accepted for scoring purposes only and are awarded the following points: Distinction 66, Merit 46, Pass 28.
GCE A Levels
To be considered for admission to the University you must:
- Present six subjects at grade C or above on GCSE or Advanced Subsidiary GCE (AS) papers. Two of these subjects must be at grade C or above on Advanced GCE (A-Level) papers.
The six subjects above must include:
A pass in English
AND
A pass in mathematics and a pass in a language other than English
OR
a pass in Latin and a pass in a subject other than a language
Additional Notes and Restrictions
- A pass means grade C or above on GCSE or Advanced Subsidiary GCE (AS) papers.
- Students may combine grades achieved in different sittings of their Advanced GCE (A-Level) examinations for the purpose of satisfying minimum entryand/or course requirements, but not for the purposes of scoring. This is not permitted for Medicine.
- Acceptable subjects:
- Applied A-Level, Vocational Advanced Subsidiary, Vocational A-Level, National Vocational and Key Skills qualifications are not accepted for matriculation or scoring purposes.
- GCSE/Advanced GCE (A-Level) subjects set by recognised examination boards are, in principle, acceptable for consideration with the following exceptions:
- Physical education, General studies and Media studies are not acceptable.
- Applicants who require advice about subject eligibility should contact the Academic Registry.
- Combinations of A-Level subjects not permitted (for matriculation or scoring purposes, unless otherwise stated):
- Art may not be presented with History of art
- Biology may not be presented with Botany or Zoology
- English literature may not be presented with English language
- Environmental science may not be presented with Biology or Geography
- Science may not be presented with Chemistry, Physics or Biology
- Not more than one specialised endorsed programme in art may be presented
- Art and music may not be offered as the two Advanced GCE (A-Level) grades for minimum entry requirements but both may be used for scoring purposes.
Advanced GCE (A-Level) scoring system
| First three A Levels (A2) | Fourth A-Level (A2) or AS | ||
| A* | 185 | 45 | 31 |
| A | 156 | 38 | 26 |
| B | 131 | 32 | 22 |
| C | 106 | 26 | 18 |
| D | 84 | 20 | 14 |
| E | 63 | 15 | 11 |
- Bonus points for Mathematics:
All students presenting Grade E or above in one of A-Level Mathematics, Further Mathematics or Pure Mathematics will have 25 points added to their score for that subject. The bonus points will only be relevant where that subject is scored as one of a student’s four best subjects for points purposes.
An applicant's score will be calculated on the basis of either of the following:
- their best 4 GCE Advanced level (A2) subjects from one academic year
or - their best 3 GCE Advanced level (A2) subjects from one academic year plus one Advanced Subsidiary level (AS) in a different subject from the same or the preceding academic year only.
Students may not combine grades achieved in different sittings of their GCE Advanced level (A2) examinations for the purpose of scoring. However, examinations taken in January and June of the same year are counted as a single sitting.
Cambridge Pre-U
Principle subjects will be accepted as alternatives to A-Levels in meeting general entry requirements. The scoring scheme for Principle Subjects, and Short Courses results is set out below.
|
Main Subjects |
Main fourth |
Short |
|
|
D1 |
180 |
60 |
30 |
|
D2 |
180 |
60 |
30 |
|
D3 |
150 |
50 |
30 |
|
M1 |
140 |
50 |
25 |
|
M2 |
120 |
45 |
25 |
|
M3 |
105 |
40 |
25 |
|
P1 |
95 |
30 |
20 |
|
P2 |
75 |
20 |
15 |
|
P3 |
40 |
15 |
10 |
Note: Global perspectives is scored at 5 points less than all other subjects in each case.
International Baccalaureate
Minimum Entry Requirements
3 subjects at grade 5 at Higher Level and 3 subjects at grade 4 at Standard Level, to include English, mathematics and another language.
NB: If a course has a specific course requirement for mathematics students must present mathematics at Higher or Standard Level (whichever is required). Maths Studies only satisfies the minimum entry requirements.
English Language Competence
English A1, A2 or B: 5 at Higher Level (4 at Standard Level if presenting IB through English) or see full list of acceptable English Language qualifications above
Sample subject grades
This table shows what is required in terms of the IB to meet specific course requirements for entry to the various programmes.
Irish Leaving Certificate |
IB |
|
H6/02 |
6 at Standard Level, 4 at Higher Level |
|
H4 |
5 at Higher Level |
|
H3 |
6 at Higher Level |
Indicative Points Equivalence
As a guideline it is anticipated that points will be awarded as follows based on the overall IB score assuming sufficient recognised subjects are presented:
IB Score |
IPS |
|
45 |
600 |
|
42 |
560 |
|
36 |
480 |
|
30 |
400 |
|
27 |
360 |
|
24 |
320 |
Bonus points for maths: 25 additional points will be awarded for a grade 4 or better on higher level Mathematics ONLY
Note re 2019: A major review of IB scoring is ongoing and there may be significant changes in scoring and entry requirements for 2019. As soon as the review is complete this site will be updated.
European Baccalaureate
Minimum Entry Requirements
Overall 60%, including grade 6 in six distinct recognised subjects including English, mathematics and another language.
English Language Competence
6 in 1st Language, or in 1st or 2nd Foreign language or see full list of acceptable English Language qualifications above.
Specific course requirements
If a course has a requirement of a grade H4 at higher Leaving Certificate level, students presenting EB must present the subject at grade 7 or better. To satisfy a requirement of a grade H3 at higher Leaving Certificate level students presenting EB must present the subject at grade 8 or better.
Indicative Points Equivalence
Students are ranked on the basis of their six best distinct recognised subjects from one sitting of the EB Exam. Points for each 3, 4 &5hr subject=the points awarded to the higher level Leaving Certificate grade in the same percentage range. Points for each 2hr subject=the points awarded to the ordinary level Leaving Certificate grade in the same percentage range.
Percentage Range |
Grade |
Points > 3hour subjects |
Points 2 hour subjects |
|
90 to 100 |
H1/O1 |
100 |
56 |
|
80 but less than 90 |
H2/O2 |
88 |
46 |
|
70 but less than 80 |
H3/O3 |
77 |
37 |
|
60 but less than 70 |
H4/O4 |
66 |
28 |
Bonus points for maths: 25 additional points will be awarded for a grade 6 or better on3,4 or 5 hour mathematics.
US High School Qualifications
Please note that posted scores are minimum entrance requirements only and do not guarantee admission. Where places are competitive a student must have excellent examination results to qualify for a place on their preferred course. Please report scores directly to Trinity.
SAT College Board number 2494
ACT Reporting number 5230
|
SAT Reasoning Test |
A minimum score of 1290 on any two of the Critical Reading, Math and Writing sections and no score less than 500. |
|---|
Or
|
ACT |
A minimum composite score of 29. Some courses may admit with a composite score of 28 |
|---|
QQI Qualifications
Entry Routes to the first year of a Degree Programme in Trinity College Dublin from appropriate Quality and Qulaifications Ireland (QQI) (NCVA) Level 5 Qualifications
"Students with appropriate QQI (Level 5) qualifications and modules, with a minimum of distinctions in five modules, can be admitted on a competitive basis to the following Degree programmes at Trinity College Dublin:
Science
TR060 - Biological & Biomedical Sciences
TR061 - Chemical Sciences
TR062 - Geography & Geoscience TR063 - Physical Sciences
Nursing
TR091 & TR093 - General Nursing
TR095 - Mental Health Nursing
TR097 - Intellectual Nursing Midwifery
TR913 - Midwifery
Application: Application is made in the normal way via the Central Applications Office www.cao.ie
QQI Places
| Course | Places |
|---|---|
| TR061 Biological and Biomedical Sciences | 12 |
| TR061 Chemical Sciences | 5 |
| TR062 Geography and Geoscience | 5 |
| Physical Sciences | 5 |
| TR091 and TR093 - General Nursing | 4 |
| TR095 Mental Health Nursing | 4 |
| TR097 Intellectual Disability Nursing | 4 |
| TR913 Midwifery | 3 |
QQI Scoring Scheme
Modules that have a credit value of 1 receive the following points:
- Distinction 3 points
- Merit 2 points
- Pass 1 point
The scores for each of the best 8 modules taken at a single sitting are added up to give a total best 8 grade points tally. Only the best 8 modules will be counted. Places reserved for QQI applicants are then offered in order of merit based on ranking. Due to the competitive nature of the Nursing Programmes, scores will only be calculated when the appropriate award is presented in a single sitting, together with all the required modules and grades. Full details of the scoring scheme is available on the CAO website www.cao.ie
Entry Requirements
TR060, TR061, TR062, TR063
CASLT/5M3807 Laboratory Techniques Or
CASFX/5M5267 Food Sciencef Distinctions (i.e. 80% or greater) in a minimum of five modules in the Qualification which must include
C21039/5N1833 Mathematics
And three of the following modules:
C20006/5N2746 Biology OR C20041/5N0737 Microbiology
C20011/5N2747 Chemistry OR C20022/5N2748 Food Chemistry
C20048/5N1460 Physics
C20033/5N2751 Laboratory Skills
In addition students must have taken and passed G20001/5N0690 Communications.
Further information on the Science course may be found here.
TR091 & TR093 General Nursing
DCHSN/5M4349 Nursing Studies
DCHSX/5M4468 Community Health Services
DHSXX/5M4339 Health Care Support
Distinctions (80% or better) in a minimum of five modules in the Qualification which must include distinctions in the following modules:
D20001/5N0749 Anatomy & Physiology
D20012/5N4325 Nursing Theory & Practice
D20032/5N1279 Human Growth & Development OR C20006/5N2746 Biology
In addition students must have taken and passed G20001/5N0690 Communications.
All students admitted to courses in the School of Nursing and Midwifery Studies will be required to undergo Garda Vetting.
Further information on the General Nursing courses may be found at TR091 and TR093.
TR095 Mental Health Nursing
DCHSN/5M4349 Nursing Studies
DCHSX/5M4468 Community Health Services
DHSXX/5M4339 Health Care Support
Distinctions (80% or better) in a minimum of five modules in the Qualification which must include distinctions in the following modules:
D20001/5N0749 Anatomy & Physiology
D20012/5N4325 Nursing Theory & Practice
D20032/5N1279 Human Growth & Development OR C20006/5N2746 Biology
In addition students must have taken and passed G20001/5N0690 Communications.
All students admitted to courses in the School of Nursing and Midwifery Studies will be required to undergo Garda Vetting.
Further information on the Mental Health Nursing course may be found here.
TR097 Intellectual Disability Nursing
DCHSN/ 5M4349 Nursing Studies
DCHSX/5M4468 Community Health Services
DHSXX/5M4339 Health Care Support
Distinctions (80% or better) in a minimum of five modules in the Qualification which must include distinctions in the following modules:
D20001/5N0749 Anatomy & Physiology
D20012/5N4325 Nursing Theory & Practice
D20032/5N1279 Human Growth & Development OR C20006/5N2746 Biology
In addition students must have taken and passed G20001/5N0690 Communications.
All students admitted to courses in the School of Nursing and Midwifery Studies will be required to undergo Garda Vetting.
Further information on the Intellectual Disability Nursing course may be found here.
TR913 Midwifery
DCHSN/5M4349 Nursing Studies
DCHSX/5M4468 Community Health Services
DHSXX/ 5M4339 Health Care Support
Distinctions (80% or better) in a minimum of five modules in the Qualification which must include distinctions in the following modules:
D20001/5N0749 Anatomy & Physiology
D20012/5N4325 Nursing Theory & Practice
D20032/5N1279 Human Growth & Development OR C20006/5N0690 Biology
In addition students must have taken and passed G20001/5N0690 Communications.
All students admitted to courses in the School of Nursing and Midwifery Studies will be required to undergo Garda Vetting.
Further information on the Midwifery course may be found here.
Additional Admissions Information
(University Matriculation Examination and Minimum Past CAO Points)
Allocation of places
Trinity College Dublin treats equally all Leaving Certificate and A-Level students on the island of Ireland in light of their status under Article 2 of the Constitution of Ireland. Trinity College will allocate fixed points to A-Level grades for the purpose of determining a student’s ranking, allocating places in proportion with current demographic factors.
For all other applicants, in the first instance Trinity College Dublin allocates ranges of CAO points to A-Level grades (and other EU grading systems) in order that these applications can be compared with Leaving Certificate applications. Once this proportion is determined, places on the course in question are offered to applicants coming from each respective examination system group on the basis of ranking within that group.
Trinity College Dublin reserves the right to make the final decision in all matters pertaining to the admissions process.
University Matriculation Examination
Download the University Matriculation Application Form
A matriculation examination, graded in equivalent terms to grades used in higher Leaving Certificate examination papers, is held in Trinity College every year, usually in April. The subjects of the matriculation examination are Biblical Studies and Geology. You may take one or both of the subjects available, but you should note that the range of University matriculation examination subjects available is not sufficient for the fulfilment of all matriculation requirements.
This matriculation examination is an optional subject examination and is not mandatory for admission.
The closing date for application for the examination is 1 March each year. The Matriculation Examination is scheduled for 19th April 2019.
Tel: +353 1 896 4500
Email: academic.registry@tcd.ie
Past Papers for Biblical Studies
Past Papers for Geology
Recommended reading for Geology Matriculation examination
If you would like further information about the Geology matriculation examination you may contact:
Dr. Patrick N. Wyse Jackson
Department of Geology
Trinity College
Dublin 2
IRELAND
Tel: +353 1 8961477
E-mail: wysjcknp@tcd.ie
Minimum CAO Points
Minimum CAO Points for courses in previous years will are available for download below.
Please note that due to changes in the CAO points and Leaving Certificate grading system, these points will be useful as broad indications only and cannot be considered as direct equivalents.