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.
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 2024 must have a date of birth before 15 January 2008.
English Language Requirements
All applicants must present an English language qualification. Accepted/Permitted English language qualifications are:
- 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.
- GCSE:
a grade C or grade 5 or better in English Language.
- European Baccalaureate:
English: 6 in 1st Language, or in 1st or 2nd Foreign language.
- 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.
- International Baccalaureate:
English A: 4 at Higher or Standard LevelEnglish B or Ab initio: 4 at Higher Level or 6 at Standard Level (4 at either Level if presenting IB through English).
- 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.
- TOEFL:
- University of Cambridge:
- Proficiency Certificate, Grade C or better
- Advanced Certificate, Grade C or better
- 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
- Pearson Test of English (Academic) - PTE Academic:
a minimum score of 63 (with no section score below 59 in the Communicative Skills section). - Duolingo DET:
- 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
- QQI/FETAC: Pass in Communications module (5N0690).
Internet based 90 (with a written score of 21).
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.
Additional Notes
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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, agricultural science and computer science (grade C at A Level). Physics/Chemistry may not be presented with Chemistry or Physics to satisfy requirements.
- 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.
- 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/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.
-
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.
-
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/8 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 Language (A or B) and Grade C/5 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/6 at GCSE level.
- 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.
- 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 |
|
|
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 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:
- 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
- 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.
- 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. 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:
- 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 entry and/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:
- General studies, Media studies and P.E. 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
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:
- 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.
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 |
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- SAT College Board number 2494
- 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 |
TR002 |
390 |
1 |
|
TR003 |
n/a |
2 |
|
TR004 |
390* |
5 |
|
TR005 |
n/a |
1 |
|
TR006 |
390* |
1 |
|
TR015 |
n/a |
1 |
|
TR016 |
374 |
3 |
|
TR018 |
n/a |
1 |
|
TR019 |
n/a |
1 |
|
TR021 |
390 |
1 |
|
TR022 |
n/a |
1 |
|
TR023 |
379 |
2 |
|
TR024 |
n/a |
2 |
|
TR025 |
390* |
1 |
|
TR028 |
n/a |
2 |
|
TR040 |
n/a |
1 |
|
TR041 |
n/a |
1 |
|
TR042 |
374 |
1 |
|
TR060 |
390* |
12 |
|
TR061 |
390 |
5 |
|
TR062 |
358 |
5 |
|
TR063 |
390 |
5 |
|
TR080 |
390* |
1 |
|
TR081 |
390 |
12 |
|
TR085 |
n/a |
1 |
|
TR086 |
n/a |
1 |
|
TR087 |
n/a |
1 |
|
TR089 |
n/a |
1 |
|
TR090 |
n/a |
1 |
|
TR091 |
390* |
2 |
|
TR093 |
390* |
2 |
|
TR095 |
390* |
4 |
|
TR097 |
390* |
4 |
|
TR913 |
390* |
3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
QQI Entry Routes to Joints Honors/Modern Language |
|
|
|
Subject |
Minimum Points |
QQI/FETAC |
|
n/a |
2 |
|
Business | 390* | 1 | |
|
n/ax |
2 |
|
|
n/a |
2 |
|
|
390* |
1 |
|
|
n/a |
2 |
|
|
390 |
2 |
|
|
390* |
1 |
|
|
n/a |
3 |
|
|
390 |
3 |
|
|
n/a |
2 |
|
Law | 390* | 1 | |
|
n/a
|
2 |
|
|
Modern Language (French, German, Irish, Italian, Russian, Spanish) |
n/a |
12 |
|
n/a |
1 |
|
|
n/a |
2 |
|
Political Science | 390* | 2 | |
|
n/a |
1 |
|
|
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
Recommended reading for Biblical Studies
Past Papers for Geology
Recommended reading for Geology Matriculation examination
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.