About Dublin City University
Dublin City University (DCU) is a university located in Dublin, Ireland. It was established in 1975 as the National Institute for Higher Education, Dublin, and became a university in 1989. DCU has a strong focus on research and is known for its interdisciplinary approach to education.
DCU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across its five faculties: DCU Business School, Faculty of Engineering and Computing, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, and DCU Institute of Education. The university also has a number of research centers and institutes, including the National Centre for Plasma Science and Technology, the Water Institute, and the Institute for International Conflict Resolution and Reconstruction.
DCU has a diverse student population, with students from over 110 countries. The university has a strong commitment to social justice and inclusion, and has been recognized for its efforts to promote diversity and equality on campus.
The main campus of DCU is located in Glasnevin, a suburb of Dublin, and is easily accessible by public transport. The campus features modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, sports complex, and student accommodation.
Advantage Dublin City University (or DCU)
There are many advantages to studying at Dublin City University (DCU) in Ireland. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Academic excellence: DCU is consistently ranked among the top universities in Ireland and is known for its academic excellence, particularly in the areas of business, engineering, and computer science.
- Research opportunities: DCU is a research-intensive university with a strong focus on interdisciplinary research. As a student at DCU, you will have many opportunities to engage in research projects and collaborate with faculty members who are experts in their fields.
- Industry connections: DCU has strong connections with industry, particularly in the areas of technology and business. Many of the university's programs are designed in collaboration with industry partners, which means that you will gain valuable insights and skills that are relevant to the job market.
- Innovative teaching methods: DCU is known for its innovative teaching methods, which include project-based learning, team-based learning, and flipped classrooms. These methods are designed to help students develop critical thinking skills and apply their knowledge to real-world problems.
- International community: DCU has a diverse student population, with students from over 110 countries. This creates a vibrant and multicultural community, which is great for making new friends and learning about different cultures.
- Location: DCU is located in Dublin, which is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich cultural heritage. Dublin is home to many multinational companies, making it a great place to live and work after graduation.
- Support services: DCU offers a range of support services to help students succeed academically and personally. These include academic support, career guidance, mental health services, and disability support.
Dublin City University scholarships
Dublin City University (DCU) offers a range of scholarships and financial aid programs for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. Here are some of the scholarships available:
- DCU International Student Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to international students based on academic merit. The scholarship amount ranges from €2,000 to €5,000 per year and is renewable for up to four years.
- DCU International Non-EU Study Abroad Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to non-EU students who are studying at DCU for one semester or one academic year. The scholarship amount is €1,000 per semester.
- DCU Sports Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional sporting ability. The scholarship amount varies depending on the level of sporting achievement.
- DCU Access Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to students from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds who have achieved academic excellence. The scholarship amount varies depending on the student's financial need.
- Irish Aid Fellowship Training Programme: This program is funded by the Irish government and provides scholarships for students from developing countries to study at DCU. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and a monthly allowance.
In addition to these scholarships, there are also external scholarship opportunities available for international students, such as the Fulbright Scholarship and the Chevening Scholarship. Students are encouraged to check with their local government or scholarship provider for information on external scholarship opportunities.
Dublin City University Application Process
The application process for Dublin City University (DCU) in Ireland varies depending on whether you are an undergraduate or postgraduate student, and whether you are an EU or non-EU student. Here is a general overview of the application process:
- Choose your program: Visit the DCU website to browse the range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs available. Choose the program that you are interested in and make sure that you meet the entry requirements.
- Prepare your documents: You will need to prepare a number of documents to support your application, including academic transcripts, a personal statement, and reference letters. Non-EU students may also need to provide evidence of English language proficiency.
- Submit your application: You can apply online via the DCU website or through the Central Applications Office (CAO) if you are an Irish/EU applicant. Non-EU applicants may also apply through the Education in Ireland website.
- Pay the application fee: There is a non-refundable application fee of €35 for undergraduate applications and €50 for postgraduate applications.
- Wait for a decision: Once you have submitted your application and supporting documents, you will need to wait for a decision. This can take several weeks or months depending on the program and the number of applications received.
- Accept your offer: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer letter from DCU. You will need to accept the offer and pay a deposit to secure your place.
- Apply for a visa: Non-EU students will need to apply for a student visa to study in Ireland. You will need to provide proof of acceptance from DCU, proof of financial support, and other supporting documents.
It is important to note that the application process may vary depending on the program and the applicant's individual circumstances. It is always a good idea to check the DCU website or contact the admissions office for more information.
Dublin City University English Language Requirments
For non-native English speakers, Dublin City University (DCU) requires proof of English language proficiency to ensure that you have the necessary language skills to succeed in your academic program. Here are the English language requirements for DCU:
- Undergraduate Programs: The minimum English language requirement for undergraduate programs is an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with no individual band score below 5.5. Some programs may have higher language requirements, so it is important to check the specific requirements for your chosen program.
- Postgraduate Programs: The minimum English language requirement for postgraduate programs is an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no individual band score below 6.0. Some programs may have higher language requirements, so it is important to check the specific requirements for your chosen program.
- Other English Language Tests: DCU also accepts other English language proficiency tests, such as TOEFL, Pearson Test of English (PTE), and Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE). The minimum scores required for these tests may vary, so it is important to check the specific requirements for your chosen program.
It is important to note that some programs may have higher English language requirements than the minimums listed above. Additionally, some applicants may be exempt from the English language requirements if they have completed a degree program in a country where English is the primary language of instruction. It is always a good idea to check the DCU website or contact the admissions office for more information on English language requirements.
English proficiency tests |
Minimum Scores |
IELTS (Academic) |
6.5 |
Internet-based TOEFL (iBT) |
237 |
Paper-based TOEFL |
580 |
Pearson (PTE Academic) |
63 |
Dublin City University Ireland Fees
The tuition fees for Dublin City University (DCU) in Ireland vary depending on the program of study and whether you are an EU or non-EU student. Here are the estimated annual tuition fees for the 2022/2023 academic year:
- Undergraduate Programs:
- EU Students: €3,000 - €3,500
- Non-EU Students: €13,500 - €16,000
- Postgraduate Programs:
- EU Students: €5,000 - €15,000 (depending on the program)
- Non-EU Students: €14,000 - €25,000 (depending on the program)
It is important to note that these are estimated tuition fees only, and the actual fees may vary depending on the program and other factors. In addition to tuition fees, students may also need to budget for accommodation, living expenses, textbooks, and other miscellaneous costs.
DCU offers a range of scholarships and financial aid programs to help offset the cost of tuition fees for eligible students. Non-EU students may also be eligible to work part-time while studying to help cover their living expenses.
It is always a good idea to check the DCU website or contact the admissions office for the most up-to-date information on tuition fees and other costs associated with studying at DCU.
Dublin City University Ireland Cost of Living
The cost of living for international students in Dublin City University (DCU) in Ireland can vary depending on factors such as accommodation, transportation, food, and personal expenses. Here is an estimated breakdown of the cost of living in Dublin for international students:
- Accommodation: The cost of accommodation can vary depending on the type and location of housing. On-campus accommodation at DCU ranges from €6,000 to €10,000 per academic year, while off-campus accommodation can cost around €400 to €800 per month.
- Transportation: The cost of transportation in Dublin can be around €50-€120 per month, depending on the distance and mode of transportation. DCU is well-connected to the city center by bus, and many students also choose to cycle or walk.
- Food: The cost of food can vary depending on your diet and eating habits. An average student food budget can be around €200-€300 per month.
- Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as clothing, entertainment, and other miscellaneous expenses can vary depending on individual needs and preferences. An estimated budget for personal expenses can be around €100-€200 per month.
In total, the estimated cost of living for an international student at DCU can be around €10,000-€15,000 per year. This estimate is based on modest living expenses and does not include tuition fees or other academic costs.
It is always a good idea to budget carefully and plan ahead to ensure that you can cover your expenses while studying in Dublin. DCU also offers a range of financial aid programs and scholarships to help students offset the cost of living expenses.
Dublin City University Highlights
University Type |
Public University |
Campus Setting |
Urban |
Establishment Year |
1975 |
No. of Campuses |
3 |
No. of Residence Halls |
3 |
International students |
2,337
71% in UG, 29% in PG courses |
Research Funding |
~35 million EUR |
Cost of Attendance |
~22,500 EUR |
Applications Accepted |
Online/Offline |
Work-Study |
Available |
Intake Type |
Semester wise |
Mode of Program |
Full time and online |
Dublin City University Average Tution fees And Other Expenses
Foreign students who wish to enrol at Dublin City University must be aware of the associated costs in order to budget appropriately and apply for scholarships when needed. The tuition costs for well-known programmes and other expenses related to studying in Ireland are covered below.
Tuition Fee for Dublin City University
Here are the details of the UG and PG fees for international students planning to study at any of the following faculties.
Programs |
UG (EUR) |
PG (EUR) |
Engineering |
15,000 |
17,000 |
Business |
14,000 |
16,000-19,000 |
Humanities |
15,000 |
15,000 |
Science |
15,000 |
15,000 |
Education |
12,600 |
13,700 |
Dublin City University Cost of Living
The cost of living here includes monthly expenses an international student would require to study at Dublin City University:
Expense |
Monthly Cost (EUR) |
Rent (On-campus) |
692-1216 |
Rent (Off-campus) |
850-1300 |
Food |
250 |
Travel |
132 |
Books and Materials |
75 |
Medical |
45 |
Miscellaneous |
178 |
Total |
Approximately 2,222 |