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Admission Requirements

Entry to undergraduate 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.

If you are applying to Trinity as a non-EU resident, then please see our direct admissions guide

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.

See Minimum CAO Points

Trinity College Dublin reserves the right to make the final decision in all matters pertaining to the admissions process.

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 recognised 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 2022 must have a date of birth before 15 January 2006.

English Language Requirements

All applicants must present an English language qualification. Accepted/Permitted English language qualifications are:

  1. Irish Leaving Certificate: a grade 6 or better in Ordinary level English.
    Candidates presenting the Irish Leaving Certificate are expected to complete English as part of their examination programme.

  2. GCSE: 
    a grade C or grade 5 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 International Option of the French Baccalaureate (OIB) may satisfy the English language requirement by achieving a minimum of 13 in English language and literature (where the co-efficient is ≥ 16), or 15 otherwise. All students taking other streams of the French Baccalaureate must present an English Language qualification such as TOEFL, IELTS etc.

  5. International Baccalaureate:
    English A: 4 at Higher or Standard Level

    English B or Ab initio: 4 at Higher Level  or 6 at Standard Level (4 at either Level if presenting IB through English).

  6. US High School:
    A grade C in English taken in final year. This applies to students who have completed their full second level education at a US High School.

  7. TOEFL:

    8. Internet based 90 (with a written score of 21).

  8. University of Cambridge:
    9. 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
    • Advanced Certificate, Grade C or better

  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 (academic version) 7 (no individual band below 7)
    • IELTS Indicator will also be accepted for 2022 entry

  10. Pearson Test of English (Academic) - PTE Academic:
    a minimum score of 63 (with no section score below 59 in the Communicative Skills section).

  11. Duolingo DET:

    12. Minimum overall score of 120/160 with no section score below 105.
    For Dental courses and for Clinical Speech and Language Studies: overall score of 130/160 with no section score below 130.

  12. Trinity PMPP: An award certificate with a minimum II.1 overall score from Trinity's Centre for English Language Learning and Teaching's PMPP

    For Dental courses and Clinical speech and language studies: An award certificate with a 1st class overall score from Trinity's Centre for English Language Learning and Teaching's PMPP

  13. QQI/FETAC: Pass in Communications module (5N0690).

Additional Notes

  1. For all proficiency tests, the results must be issued within two years prior to the start of your course

Course Specific Requirements

Honors Subjects

Course Code Name Specific Subjects Required Available Places in 2021
    Higher level Leaving Certificate or Advanced GCE (A-Level) grades)  
TR002 Music none none 15
TR003 History none none 39
TR004 Law none none 97
TR005 Philosophy none none 20
TR006 Psychology none none 47
TR007 Clinical speech and language studies see note 4 see note 4 34
TR009 Music education see note 5 see note 5 12
TR015 Philosophy, political science, economics & sociology see note 1 see note 1 34
TR016 Deaf studies see note 16 see note 16 20
TR018 Law and French H3 in French C in French 15
TR019 Law and German H3 in German C in German 15
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 23
TR022 Early and modern Irish H4 in Irish C in Irish 15
TR023 English studies H4 in English H4 in English 45
TR024 European studies see note 8 see note 8 45
TR025 Drama and theatre studies see note 10 see note 10 17
TR028 Ancient and medieval history and culture none none 16
TR031 Mathematics H3 in Mathematics C in Mathematics 48
TR032 Engineering H4 in Mathematics C in Mathematics 209
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 45
TR038‡ Engineering with management H4 in Mathematics C in Mathematics 29
TR039 Computer science, linguistics  and a language see note 18 see note 18 20
TR040 Middle Eastern and European Languages and Culture H4 in language other than English or Irish C in language other than English or Irish 20
TR041 Religion none none 8
TR042 Film none none 15
TR043 History of Art and Architecture none none 13
TR051 Medicine see notes 3A and 3B see notes 3A and 3B 115
TR052 Dental science see note 17 see note 17 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 11 see note 11 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 &2 246
TR061 Chemical Sciences see note 1&2 see notes 1&2 80
TR062 Geography and Geoscience see notes 1&2 see notes 1&2 54
TR063 Physical Sciences see notes 1&2 see notes 1&2 70
TR064 Environmental science and engineering See  note 20 See note 20 20
TR072 Pharmacy see notes 1 & 9 see notes 1 & 9 78
TR080 Global Business see note 1 see note 1 40
TR081 Business, economic and social studies see note 1 see note 1 244
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 16
TR086 Business studies and German H3 in German & see note 1 C in German & see note 1 18
TR087 Business studies and Russian H4 in a language excluding English & see note 1 C in a language excluding English & see note 1 8
TR089 Business studies and Polish H4 in a language excluding English & see note 1 C in a language excluding English & see note 1 6
TR090 Business studies and Spanish H3 in Spanish & see note 1 C in Spanish & see note 1 11
TR091 General nursing See note 15 See note 15 126
TR093 General nursing Adelaide School of Nursing See notes 12 & 13 See notes 12 & 13 33
TR095 Mental health nursing See note 12 See note 12 59
TR097 Intellectual disability nursing See note 12 See note 12 32
TR911 Children's and general integrated nursing See note 12 See note 12 26
TR913 Midwifery See note 12 See note 12 47

Specific subjects required for other EU countries: See the information for the Irish Leaving Certificate and compare it with the equivalent grades for your country in the Entry requirements criteria for EU/EFTA Applicants at: http://www2.cao.ie/downloads/documents/Guidelines-EU-EFTA.pdf


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/6 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, computer 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.
  1. 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/6 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 February 2022. Applicants must register for the test at: https://hpat-ireland.acer.org/ by 20 January 2022. 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 (2020) AS (2021), A-Levels (2022)

  1. A mathematics requirement of grade 6 on the ordinary or higher Leaving Certificate paper or grade C/5 at GCSE level. A grade 4 at higher level in one of English or a language other than English and a grade O2/H6 in one of mathematics, applied mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry, agricultural science OR a H4 in one of mathematics, applied mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, physics/chemistry, agricultural science and a grade O2/H6 in English or a language other than English.  If you are presenting Advanced GCE (A-levels), a grade C at A-level is required in one of English or a language other than English and a grade B/6 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/6 at GCSE level in one of English or a language other than English.

  2. This is a restricted entry course; therefore, applications must be submitted to the CAO by 1 February of the proposed year of entry. .. An on-line entrance  test will be held on 19 March 2022 (tbc). Some applicants will be called for interviewin early  April when the final selections will be made.

  3. 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.

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

  5. 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. 

  6. 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, agricultural science and computer science (grade C at A Level). Physics/Chemistry may not be presented with Chemistry or Physics to satisfy requirements. 

  7. 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.

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

  9. 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/5 in mathematics and in one of biology, physics, chemistry at GCSE level. Mature applicants should follow the instructions in the CAO Handbook (available at www.cao.ie).

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 basis 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.

  1. 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 organization, nominates suitable applicants each year to the Adelaide School of Nursing. 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/QQI points/mature students' written assessment scores.

  2. 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).

  3. A higher level grade 4 or an ordinary level grade 2 in mathematics or grade C at A Level or grade A/8 at GCSE level.

  4. 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 Language (A or B) and Grade C/5 in a language other than English at GCSE level.

  5. 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/6 at GCSE level.
  1. A higher level grade 4 in mathematics (Grade C at A Level). Also, a grade 3 at higher level in French, Irish or Spanish. (Grade C at A Level in French or Spanish or Grade B in Irish at A Level.
  1. The languages 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 two 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 Modern Irish. A Level Applicants: To be eligible for French or Modern Irish applicants must present a Grade C at A Level in French or Modern Irish. To study German, Italian, Russian or Spanish a Grade C at A Level in a language other than English is required.



Joint Honours/Modern Language

Students select two subjects from the list below.

Important Notes:

1. A student may not study two languages at beginner's level. Students applying for any combination of Language and Modern Language must have a H4 in one of the two languages.

2. French and Modern Irish are NOT available at beginner’s level. A H4 is required to be eligible for either of these languages

Subject Name Specific Subjects Required    
  Leaving Certificate Advanced GCE (A-Level) grades Available Places in 2021
AH Ancient history and archaeology none none 25
BU Business see note 1 see note 1  
CC Classical Civilisation none none 31
CL Classical Languages H4 in Greek, Latin or a language other than English C in Greek, Latin or a language other than English 10
CS Computer science

see note 2

 

see note 2

  
50
DR Drama studies see note 3 see note 3 24
EC Economics see note 1 see note 1 46
EN English literature H4 in English C in English 101
FS Film none none 30
GG Geography ‡ none none 45
HS History none none 46
AR History of art and architecture none none 43
LW Law none none 45
LS Linguistics H6/O2 in a language other than English or Irish Grade D at A level/Grade A/8 at GCSE level in a language other than English or Irish 20
ME Middle Eastern, Jewish and Islamic Civilisations none none 10
MT Mathematics H3 in mathematics B in mathematics 30
ML Modern Languages See note 4 See note 4 275
MU Music none none 20
PH Philosophy none none 43
RE Religion none none 22
SC Sociology none none 59
SO Social Policy none none 28
PS History and political science none none 24
         

Specific subjects required for other EU countries: See the information 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/6 at GCSE level.

  2. A higher level grade 4 or ordinary level grade 2 in mathematics. Grade C at A level or grade A/8 at GCSE level in mathematics.

  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 languages 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 language other than English is required.

Joint Honours/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 2022
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. 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. This applies where only three higher level Leaving Certificate grades are being presented.

 

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 Link Modules

These 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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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 entry and/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:
      • 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  re Mathematics
Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches and Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation are both acceptable. However, for courses with a Higher Level Mathematics requirement we strongly recommend Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches at HL as this is likely to be a mandatory requirement for those particular courses. Maths Studies only satisfies minimum entry requirements

English Language Competence
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

566

36

496

30

420

27

389

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 5 in six distinct recognised subjects including English, mathematics and another language.

English Language Competence
The minimum acceptable level of English is 6 in 1st Language, or in 1st or 2nd Foreign language (i.e. L1, L2 or L3) 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 6 or better. To satisfy a requirement of a grade H3 at higher Leaving Certificate  level students presenting EB must present the subject at grade 7 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.

*Advanced subjects will not be counted where there is already a result in the same subject. E.g. Advanced English and English.   Where there are only 5 distinct 3,4 or 5 hour subjects the best 2 hour subject will be counted.



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

50 but less than 60

H5/O5

56

20

Bonus points for maths: 25 additional points will be awarded for a grade 6 or better on 3, 4 or 5 hour mathematics.

US High School Qualifications

Due to the ongoing challenges facing students seeking to sit standardized tests and the continued impact of COVID-19, Trinity admissions office will consider alternative evidence from students applying for entry in 2022/23. In lieu of standardised tests, the admissions office will consider criteria including: GPA, academic transcripts, two references, a personal statement for your application.

We will also consider other academic criteria such as Advanced Placement courses (APs), college and honors level classes with strong grades where relevant to the programme / major for which you are applying. You may submit any SAT/ACT test scores you have been able to take if you also wish them to be considered.

SAT Reasoning Test

 A minimum score of 1250 on any two of the Critical Reading, Math and Writing sections and no score less than 500.


Or

ACT

 A minimum composite score of 27. Some courses may admit with a composite score of 28
  1. SAT College Board number 2494

  2. ACT Reporting number 5230

High School Diploma

Minimum Entry Requirement:

English, Mathematics and a second language, as well as three further subjects. Some courses will have specific subjects requirements e.g. mathematics for Engineering. See course lists for details. A cumulative GPA of 3.2 or better (B+ average) unweighted.

QQI Qualifications

Students with the relevant and appropriate QQI-FET (formerly known as FETAC) Level 5/6 awards and modules, with a minimum of distinctions in five modules, may be admitted on a competitive basis to the courses listed below in Trinity College Dublin:
Students must apply to the Central Applications Office (CAO). Detailed information about the application process and important dates is available on the CAO website. 

2022 Progression Pathways to Trinity


QQI-FETScoring 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 -FET 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

Full details of the entry requirements can be found here.
All students admitted to courses in the School of Nursing and Midwifery Studies will be required to undergo Garda Vetting.

QQI-FET Entry Routes

Details of the courses with QQI-FET Entry Routes are listed below. Click on the links below to get further information about the courses.

CAO Course Code

Course name

Minimum Points

QQI/FETAC
Quota in 2021

TR002

Music

390

1

TR003

History

n/a

2

TR004

Law

390*

5

TR005

Philosophy

n/a

1

TR006

Psychology

390*

1

TR015

Philosophy, Political Science, Economics and Sociology

 

n/a

 

1

TR016

Deaf Studies

374

3

TR018

Law and French

n/a

1

TR019

Law and German

n/a

1

TR021

Classics, Ancient History and Archaeology

 

390

 

1

TR022

Early and Modern Irish

n/a

1

TR023

English Studies

379

2

TR024

European Studies

n/a

2

TR025

Drama and Theatre Studies

390*

1

TR028

Ancient and Medieval History and Culture

        n/a

2

TR040

Middle Eastern and European Languages and Culture

 

n/a

 

1

TR041

Religion

n/a

1

TR042

Film

374

1

TR060

Biological and Biomedical Sciences

390*

12

TR061

Chemical Sciences

390

5

TR062

Geography and Geoscience

358

5

TR063

Physical Sciences

390

5

TR080

Global Business

390*

1

TR081

BESS

390

12

TR085

Business Studies and French

n/a

1

TR086

Business Studies and German

n/a

1

TR087

Business Studies and Russian

n/a

1

TR089

Business Studies and Polish

n/a

1

TR090

Business Studies and Spanish

n/a

1

TR091

General Nursing (Meath & St. James’s)

390*

2

TR093

General Nursing (Adelaide)

390*

2

TR095

Mental Health Nursing

390*

4

TR097

Intellectual Disability Nursing

390*

4

TR913

Midwifery

390*

3

 

 

 

 

 

QQI Entry Routes to Joints Honors/Modern Language

 

 

 

Subject

 

Minimum Points

QQI/FETAC
Quota in 2020

 

Ancient History and Archaeology

n/a

2
  Business 390* 1

 

Classical Civilisation

n/ax

2

 

Classical Languages

n/a

2

 

Drama Studies

390*

1

 

Economics

n/a

2

 

English Literature

390

2

 

Film

390*

1

 

Geography

n/a

3

 

History

390

3

 

History of Art and Architecture

n/a

2
  Law 390* 1

 

Middle Eastern, Jewish & Islamic Civilisations

n/a

 

 

2

 

Modern Language (French, German, Irish, Italian, Russian, Spanish)

 

n/a

 

12

 

Music

n/a

1

 

Philosophy

n/a

2
  Political Science 390* 2

 

Religion

n/a

1

 

Sociology

390

4

 

 

University Matriculation Examination

 

Important Notice: The deadline to apply for the Matriculation Exam 2023  is 1 March 2023. . Please note that we cannot accept late applications.


You can submit your application, and find the application fee details, at the link below.

To view the University Matriculation Examination form, please click here.

The subjects of the matriculation examination are Biblical Studies and Geology. Students may take one or both of these subjects, but you should note that the range of university matriculation examination subjects available is not sufficient for the fulfilment of all matriculation requirements. The matriculation examination is an optional subject examination and is not mandatory for admission.


Results obtained in the university matriculation examination may be combined with Leaving Certificate results and use in the calculation of CAO points but only when both examinations are taken in the same year.

The closing date for application for the examination is 1 March each year.

Tel: +353 1 896 4500

Email: academic.registry@tcd.ie

Past Papers for Biblical Studies

2019

2018

2017

2015

2014

2013

2012

 

Recommended reading for Biblical Studies

Past Papers for Geology

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

Recommended reading for Geology Matriculation examination

Geology syllabus

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.