Skip to main content

Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin

Trinity Menu Trinity Search

Study

You are here How to Apply > Admission Requirements > Undergraduate

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

Additional Admissions Information: 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.

 

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:

  1. 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."
    .
  2. GCSE: a grade C or better in English Language.

  3. European Baccalaureate:
    English: 6 in 1st Language, or in 1st or 2nd Foreign language.

  4. 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.

  5. International Baccalaureate:
    English A1, A2 or B: 5 at Higher Level (4 at either Level if presenting IB through English).

  6. US High School:
    a grade C in English taken in final year.

  7. TOEFL:
    • Internet based 90 (with a written score of 21).

  8. 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)

  9. 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)

  10. Pearson Test of English (Academic) - PTE Academic: a minimum score of 63 (with no section score below 59).
  11. QQI/FETAC: Pass in Communications module (5N0690).

Additional Notes

  1. Examination results for tests 7-11 above are only valid for 2 years.
  2. 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:

  1. A mathematics requirement of grade 4 on the ordinary or grade 6 on the higher Leaving Certificate paper or grade B at GCSE level.

  2. 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.

  3. 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: https://hpat-ireland.acer.org/ 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)

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. 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.

  7. One higher level grade 4 (Grade C at A Level) from the following subjects: physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry, agricultural science.

  8. 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. 

  9. 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. 

  10. 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.

  11. 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).

  12. 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.

  13. 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.

  14. One higher level grade 4 (Grade C at A Level) from the following subjects: physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry.

  15. 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.

  16. 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.

  17. 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).

  18. 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.

  19. 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

  20. 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.

  21. 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.

  22. 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

  1. A mathematics requirement of grade 4 on the ordinary or grade 6 on the higher Leaving Certificate paper or grade B at GCSE level.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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 languages.  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 languuage 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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. 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.
  4. 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 Program

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

  1. A pass means grade C or above on GCSE or Advanced Subsidiary GCE (AS) papers.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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
  5. 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


Grade

First 3 A Level subjects

4th A Level 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



     

     

    *Extended Project (EQP) is scored as an AS level and an A* is available in this

    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:

  1. their best 4 GCE Advanced level (A2) subjects from one academic year
    or
  2. 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.

Points Conversion Table

Cambridge Pre-U Grade

Main Subjects

4th Subject

 

 

 

Main Subject

Short Courses

D1

185

45

31

D2

181

44

30

D3

164

40

27

M1

147

36

24

M2

130

32

21

M3

113

28

18

 

 

 

 

P1

96

24

15

P2

79

20

12

P3

62

16

9

 

 

 

 

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

564

36

486

30

400

27

388

24

360

 Bonus points for maths: 25 additional points will be awarded for a grade 4 or better on higher level Mathematics ONLY

 

 

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:

Law

TR004 - Law

Science

TR060 - Biological & Biomedical Sciences

TR061 - Chemical Sciences

TR062 - Geography & Geoscience TR063 - Physical Sciences

Business

TR080 - Global Business

TR081 - Business, Economic and Social Studies (BESS)

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

TR004 Law                  

 5
TR061 Biological and Biomedical Sciences 12
TR061 Chemical Sciences 5
TR062 Geography and Geoscience 5
TR063 Physical Sciences 5
TR080 Global Business 1
TR081 Business, Economic and Social Studies (BESS)

12
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

Students can be admitted on a competitive basis to Year 1 of the Law programme with Distinctions (80% or better) in five modules (excluding 5N1356/6N1946/W20008/5N1433/6N1947) in one of the following QQI FET/FETAC qualifications. In addition students must have taken and passed 5N0690.

Level 5 Awards

 

Level 6 Awards

5M2181

Applied Social Studies

 

6M5013

Administration

5M2468

Business Administration

 

6M4985

Business

5M2102

Business Studies

 

6M3674

Community Development

5M2786

Community Care

 

6M2007

Early Childhood Care & Education

5M3050

Community Development

 

6M2263

Inclusive Education & Training

5M4468

Community Health Services

 

6M3115

Information, Advice and Advocacy

5M2154

Cultural & Heritage Studies

 

6M4587

Management

 

5M0828

eBusiness

 

6M2218

Social & Vocational Integration

5M3114

General Studies/Liberal Studies*

 

 

 

5M2111

International Trade

 

 

 

5M1464

Journalism

 

 

 

5M2073

Language & European Studies

 

 

 

5M3789

Legal Studies

 

 

 

5M2069

Marketing

 

 

 

5M5165

Trade Union Studies

 

 

 

5M4732

Youth Work

 

 

 

*5M3114 General Studies/Liberal Studies: This award must include 3 of the following modules: Applied Economics (5N1350); English Literature (5N3249); History (5N3250); Psychology (5N0754); Social Studies (5N1370).

TR060, TR061, TR062, TR063

CASLT/5M3807 Laboratory Techniques Or
CASFX/5M5267 Food Science 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.

TR080 Global Business

Students can be admitted on a competitive basis to Year 1 of the Global Business programme with Distinctions (80% or better) in five modules (excluding 5N1356/W20008/5N1433). In addition students must have taken and passed 5N0690
The award must include a distinction (80% or better) in 5N1833 Mathematics and must be one of the following QQI FET/FETAC Level 5 awards.

Level 5 Award

 

5M2102

Business Studies

5M2111

International Trade

5M2069

Marketing

 

 

 

 

 

 

TR081  Business, Economic and Social Studies (BESS)
Students can be admitted on a competitive basis to Year 1 of the BESS programme with Distinctions (80% or better) in five modules (excluding 5N1356/W20008/5N1433). In addition students must have taken and passed 5N0690.

The award must include a distinction (80% or better) in 5N1833 Mathematics and must be one of the following QQI FET/FETAC awards.


Level 5 Award

5M2102

Business Studies

5M3114

General Studies/Liberal Arts**

5M2111

International Trade

5M2069

Marketing

**In addition to a Distinction in Mathematics (5N1833) this award must also include 3 of the following modules Applied Economics (5N1350); English Literature (5N3249); History (5N3250); Psychology (5N0754); Social Studies (5N1370).

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 here.

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.

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 17th April 2019.

Tel: +353 1 896 4500

Email: academic.registry@tcd.ie

Past Papers for Biblical Studies

2017

2015

2014

2013

2012

Past Papers for Geology

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

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.