University College Dublin: Acceptance Rate, Courses, Fees, Rankings, Scholarship & More
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University College Dublin (UCD) is a top-tier institution known for its academic excellence, global reputation, and vibrant student life. Established in 1854, UCD has grown into one of Europe’s leading research-intensive universities, attracting students from over 130 countries. From its #171 QS World University Ranking (2025) to its state-of-the-art campus spanning 133 hectares, UCD offers an unmatched environment for academic and personal growth.
With a 20% acceptance rate, UCD is highly competitive, making it a dream destination for students aiming to excel in fields like Business, Medicine, Engineering, and Computer Science. Its commitment to fostering talent is evident in the wide range of scholarships and the 93% graduate placement rate, thanks to top recruiters like Google, Microsoft, and Deloitte. Whether you’re interested in pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies, UCD is the perfect blend of academic rigor, cultural diversity, and innovative learning.
University College Dublin Highlights 2025
| Feature | Details |
| Year of Establishment | 1854 |
| Campus Size | 133 hectares |
| QS World University Ranking (2025) | #171 |
| Campus Locations | Dublin, Ireland |
| Placement Rate | 93% (graduates employed within six months) |
| Top Recruiters | Google, Microsoft, Pfizer, KPMG, Deloitte |
| Popular Courses for International Students | Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Medicine, Arts |
| English Language Exam Required | IELTS (6.5+), TOEFL (88+), PTE (63+) |
| Acceptance Rate | ~20% (highly competitive) |
| Annual Tuition Fees for International Students | €19,000–€25,000 |
| Website | www.ucd.ie |
University College Dublin: Courses, Eligibility, and Fees 2025
UCD offers a diverse range of programs tailored to meet the demands of various industries. From STEM courses to liberal arts and business programs, University College Dublin courses provide students with top-notch education and practical experience. Whether you’re an undergraduate or postgraduate applicant, there’s a program for you. Below is an overview of UCD courses, eligibility criteria, and tuition fees for 2025:
| Course | 1st Year Tuition Fees (INR) | 1st Year Tuition Fees (AUD) | Duration | Eligibility & Exam Requirements |
| MBA/PGDM | INR 12 L – 33 L | AUD 22,000 – 60,000 | 12 months – 2 years | UG degree, Work Experience preferred; IELTS: 6.5-7, TOEFL: 90-100, PTE: 63-65 |
| M.Sc. | INR 12 L – 24 L | AUD 22,000 – 43,000 | 12 months – 2 years | UG degree in a related field; IELTS: 6.5-7, TOEFL: 90-100, PTE: 63-65 |
| M.A. | INR 10 L – 26 L | AUD 18,000 – 47,000 | 12 months – 2 years | UG degree; IELTS: 6.5-7.5, TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 63+, Duolingo: 120+ |
| B.Sc. | INR 20 L – 31 L | AUD 36,000 – 56,000 | 3 – 5 years | High school diploma; IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 63+, Duolingo: 120+ |
| BBA | INR 18 L – 24 L | AUD 33,000 – 43,000 | 3 – 4 years | High school diploma; IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 63+, Duolingo: 120+ |
| LL.M. | INR 18 L – 20 L | AUD 33,000 – 36,000 | 12 months – 2 years | Law degree; IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 63+, Duolingo: 120+ |
| B.A. | INR 18 L – 20 L | AUD 33,000 – 36,000 | 3 – 4 years | High school diploma; IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 63+, Duolingo: 120+ |
| B.E./B.Tech | INR 23 L – 26 L | AUD 42,000 – 47,000 | 3 – 4 years | High school diploma; IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 63+, Duolingo: 120+ |
| LL.B. | INR 18 L | AUD 33,000 | 4 years | High school diploma; IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 63+, Duolingo: 120+ |
| MBBS | INR 52 L | AUD 95,000 | 6 years | High school diploma; IELTS: 7+ |
| B.Com | INR 18 L – 19 L | AUD 33,000 – 35,000 | 3 – 4 years | High school diploma; IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 63+, Duolingo: 120+ |
| Ph.D. | INR 20 L | AUD 36,000 | 3 years | Master’s degree; IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 63+, Duolingo: 120+ |
University College Dublin Rankings 2025
The University College Dublin ranking showcases its academic reputation and global reach. Consistently listed among the top universities worldwide, UCD’s rankings reflect its excellence in research, teaching, and student satisfaction. Here’s a breakdown of UCD’s rankings in 2025:
| Ranking Body | Ranking/Category | Year | Additional Details |
| QS World University Rankings | 126th globally | 2025 | Improved from 171st in 2024; Top 9% of institutions ranked by QS. |
| Times Higher Education (THE) | Ranked 201–250 globally | 2023 | Recognized for academic excellence and global reputation. |
| U.S. News & World Report | 253rd globally; 2nd best university in Ireland | 2024 | Highlights UCD’s international reputation and impact. |
| QS Subject Ranking | 24th globally in Veterinary Science; 1st in Ireland | 2018 | Reflects UCD’s leadership in Veterinary Science education and research. |
| Financial Times | 22nd among leading European Business Schools (UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School) | 2022 | Demonstrates global excellence in business education. |
| UCD Smurfit School Programs | Five programs ranked in the global top 35: MSc in Supply Chain Management – 13th globally MSc in Marketing – 31st globally MSc in Management (CEMS) – 33rd globally MSc in Business Analytics – 33rd globally MSc in Finance – 35th globally | 2022 | NA |
University College Dublin Acceptance Rate 2025
The University College Dublin acceptance rate underscores its highly selective admission process, making it a sought-after institution for academically ambitious students. For 2025, the UCD acceptance rate stands at approximately 20%, highlighting the university’s competitive nature and emphasis on academic excellence. Undergraduate programs are open to a diverse global pool of applicants, while postgraduate courses often demand exceptional academic credentials and relevant experience. Programs in STEM, Business, and Law are especially selective, owing to their global reputation and rigorous curriculum. Below are some of the key details on UCD Acceptance Rate 2025:
| Criteria | Details |
| Acceptance Rate (2025) | ~20% |
| Application Type | Undergraduate, Postgraduate, MBA |
| Popular Programs | Business, Engineering, Law, Computer Science |
| Minimum Language Scores | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 63+ |
| International Student Ratio | 27% |
University College Dublin Admission Dates 2025
Planning your application process early is key to securing your place at University College Dublin (UCD). The university offers two major intakes annually—Autumn (September) and Spring (January)—to cater to a variety of academic schedules. Submitting your application ahead of deadlines not only increases your chances of acceptance but also improves your odds of securing University College Dublin accommodation and scholarships. The table below provides a detailed breakdown of the key dates for UCD undergraduate and postgraduate admissions, including application windows and academic session timelines:
| Admission Category | Application Start Date | Application End Date | Intakes | Session Start Date | Session End Date |
| Undergraduate (UG) | September 2024 | February 1, 2025 | Autumn | September 2025 | May 2026 |
| Postgraduate (PG) | October 2024 | March 31, 2025 | Autumn | September 2025 | August 2026 |
| Spring Intake (UG & PG) | February 2025 | June 15, 2025 | Spring | January 2026 | August 2026 |
| Research Programs | Rolling Admissions | Varies by Department | Varies | Varies | Varies |
University College Dublin UG Admission Criteria 2025
Gaining admission to University College Dublin undergraduate programs is a significant milestone for students globally. Known for its competitive yet achievable entry process, UCD values academic merit, extracurricular achievements, and language proficiency. UCD’s undergraduate courses span across fields like Business, Engineering, Arts, and Science, catering to a diverse student body. The university has streamlined admission requirements, making it easier for international students to navigate the process. Below is a detailed table outlining the eligibility criteria for UCD undergraduate admissions in 2025:
| Criteria | Details |
| Academic Requirements | High school diploma with strong academic performance; specific subjects may be required. |
| English Proficiency | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 63+, Duolingo: 120+ |
| Application Documents | Personal Statement, 1-2 Recommendation Letters, High School Transcripts |
| Program-Specific | SAT/ACT scores for select programs, portfolios for creative courses |
| Application Timeline | Rolling admissions; early applications are recommended for competitive programs |
University College Dublin PG Admission Criteria 2025
For those aiming to specialize in their chosen field, UCD offers a range of postgraduate programs designed to foster expertise and research capabilities. Whether you’re looking at an MSc in Data Analytics, an MBA, or a research-based MPhil, UCD has options for everyone.
Postgraduate admissions at UCD focus on academic rigor and professional accomplishments. Candidates with relevant work experience or exceptional undergraduate performance stand a better chance of admission. Here’s a breakdown of what you need for postgraduate admissions at UCD in 2025:
| Criteria | Details |
| Academic Requirements | Bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.1 grade or equivalent (specific GPA may vary by course). |
| English Proficiency | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 63+, Duolingo: 120+ |
| Professional Experience | Required for programs like MBA or MIM; optional for other courses |
| Supporting Documents | Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (2-3), Resume (for some programs) |
| Application Timeline | Rolling admissions with priority deadlines for scholarships and accommodation. |
University College Dublin Scholarships 2025
UCD is dedicated to supporting international students through various scholarships and financial aid options. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership skills, and extracurricular achievements, reducing the financial burden for deserving candidates. Below are the popular UCD scholarships in 2025:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits | How to Apply | Application Deadline |
| Global Excellence Award | High academic performance | Partial tuition fee waiver | Submit academic transcripts | April 2025 |
| Government of Ireland Scholarship | Exceptional academic achievements | Full tuition + €10,000 stipend | Apply via HEA portal | March 2025 |
| Smurfit Business School Scholarships | Admission to MBA or related program | Up to 50% tuition waiver | Automatic consideration | Rolling |
| UCD Global Scholarship | High grades in prior studies | Up to €5,000 | Submit application form | Varies by program |
University College Dublin Accommodation 2025
Finding the perfect housing solution is essential for a fulfilling academic experience. UCD offers a variety of accommodation options tailored to international students’ needs, from on-campus residences to purpose-built student housing (PBSA). With University College Dublin accommodation, students benefit from a safe, vibrant community just minutes away from classrooms. Here’s a snapshot of available accommodations options near UCD in 2025:
| Accommodation Type | Features | Price Range (Per Month) |
| On-Campus Residences | Shared and private rooms; fully furnished; close to campus. | €700 – €1,200 |
| Off-Campus Rentals | Apartments and shared houses in student-friendly areas. | €800 – €1,500 |
| PBSA | Managed housing with modern amenities like gyms and study lounges. | €900 – €1,400 |
| Private Rentals | Independent living spaces for those seeking privacy. | €1,000 – €1,800 |
Conclusion
University College Dublin (UCD) is not just a university—it’s a stepping stone to a world of opportunities. Offering diverse programs, global rankings, and world-class facilities, UCD stands as a beacon of excellence for students worldwide. Its competitive admission process, paired with comprehensive scholarship options and a thriving student community, ensures that every student has the tools they need to succeed.
With a wide range of courses, top-notch accommodation options, and a history of producing world leaders and innovators, UCD promises a transformative educational experience. Ready to take the next step? Explore your opportunities at University College Dublin and make your mark on the world!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University College Dublin a good university?
Yes, UCD is among the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide, renowned for its academic excellence and strong global reputation among employers, industries, and universities.
Where is UCD ranked in the world?
UCD is ranked 126th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, reflecting its academic prestige and research excellence.
Is it difficult to get into University College Dublin?
With an acceptance rate of 20%, UCD is considered one of the most competitive universities in Ireland, particularly for programs in STEM, Business, and Law.
How much does it cost to study at UCD?
Annual tuition fees at UCD range between €16,800 and €25,600 for undergraduate programs, depending on the course and level of study.
How many international students are at University College Dublin?
UCD hosts over 11,500 international students, making it the most international university in Ireland with a vibrant, globally diverse student community.
Is University College Dublin public or private?
UCD is a public research university founded in 1854 and is part of the National University of Ireland. It is widely recognized as one of Europe's leading research-intensive institutions.
