Study Abroad, Exchange & Erasmus Incoming Student Handbook
Why choose DCU?
Dublin City University (DCU) stands among the world’s premier young universities, driven by a mission to transform lives and societies through education, research, and innovation.
Situated near Dublin City centre and Dublin International Airport, DCU provides students with an exceptional experience, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive support.
DCU welcomes international students to join this mission, offering study abroad opportunities for either a semester or a full year. Proud of its international community, DCU has always prioritised internationalisation as a core part of the university experience. Notably, DCU was the first Irish university to incorporate a mandatory study abroad component into certain programmes.
Currently, DCU boasts a diverse student body of over 1,900 students from 128 different nationalities annually.
Entrepreneurial, innovative, and creative, DCU is future-focused with a strong track record for careers advice, work experience and employability. Here are some key statistics about DCU:
Why Dublin?
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, the city of Dublin likely needs no introduction.
Founded by the Vikings over a thousand years ago, Dublin boasts a rich history and vibrant culture.
The city has nurtured great writers like James Joyce, fearless revolutionaries like Rosie Hackett, industrial pioneers like Arthur Guinness, and Nobel Prize-winning scientists like Ernest Walton. Today, Dublin is a dynamic city, renowned for its youthful population, technological innovation, and the “craic” of its legendary social scene. The skyline beautifully merges the old and new, from the spire of Christ Church Cathedral to the modern curves of the Aviva Stadium.
DCU is located at the lively heart of the city's north side, with three distinctive campuses in the bustling Glasnevin-Drumcondra area, all within easy reach of the city centre and major amenities. Dublin also serves as a gateway to the stunning mountains, coastline, and countryside surrounding the city. With numerous public transport options available, getting around Dublin is convenient. You can find all the necessary transport information at transportforireland.ie, dublinbus.ie, luas.ie, and buseireann.ie.
DCU Location
DCU is located a short distance from Dublin city centre and Dublin Airport, accessible via public transport from Dublin city centre and both the M50 and M1 motorways.
There are six campuses - three academic - DCU Glasnevin, DCU St Patrick's and DCU All Hallows. The other three campuses are our innovation campus, DCU Alpha, and the DCU Sports Campus, both located in Glasnevin, and DCU Morton Stadium, the national athletics facility in Santry, Dublin 9.
How to get to DCU
From Dublin Airport
Taxi: The easiest way to get to DCU from the airport is by taxi. The taxi ride should take approximately 15 minutes and should cost no more than €25. You are entitled to ask the taxi driver for a receipt, if you need one.
Car: If you are driving to DCU from the airport, follow the M1 motorway, direction ‘city centre’, turn right at Whitehall Church onto Collins Avenue. DCU is 500 metres up this road on the left-hand side.
Bus Services
At the time of going to press DCU is best serviced by the following routes:
4, 9, 11, 13, 16 to and from city centre;
44- to and from DCU to Enniskerry;
N4 – to and from Blanchardstown to Point Village;
33 – to and from Balbriggan via Swords Road;
41, 41B and 41C – to and from Swords via Swords Road.
Timetables and further information available in www.dublinbus.ie.
Facilities
As an international visiting student at DCU, you receive the same treatment as a degree-seeking student enrolled at the university. You have access to all DCU facilities, including:
O’Reilly Library on the Glasnevin Campus
Cregan Library on the St. Patrick’s Campus
Woodlock Hall Library on the All Hallows Campus.
Students enjoy access to a wide range of services and facilities, including individual study areas, borrowing print books, Wi-Fi, photocopying, scanning, and printing services, as well as access to PCs and laptops. Additional amenities include group study rooms, online library guides, workshops, and classes. Expert assistance is readily available via online chat services and from library desk staff across all three sites, ensuring students can easily locate materials and maximise their library experience.
The student health service is nurse led and provides medical care to registered students of DCU. There are two student health centres in DCU, one on the Glasnevin campus and one on the St Patrick’s campus.
Students are encouraged to contact the health centre that is most convenient for them. Appointments are scheduled based on availability, and during peak periods, students may be offered appointments at the other campus or for the following day. It is unnecessary to email both health centres for the same appointment.
The appointments include:
GPs and Nurses Service.
Urgent and/or routine appointments.
Contraception/Family Planning advice.
Sports injury referrals.
D-Doc is an out-of-hours emergency service run by local GPs. The D-Doc centres are open from 6pm to 8am Monday to Friday and 24 hours on Saturday, Sunday, and Bank Holidays.
To contact them call 1850 22 44 77
Students should note that there is a fee for this service. There is a fee of at least 65.00euro (June 2024)
The campus pharmacy (Pharmhealth) is based at the centre of DCU Glasnevin Campus. Open all year round, the pharmacy has gained a reputation as an efficient, friendly, and approachable pharmacy.
The campus pharmacy also offers an online doctor service see:
www.pharmhealth.com/online-doctor-service
DCU Chaplaincy is a place of care and sanctuary for everyone on campus and for the wider community.
We aim to reflect and encourage the diversity of beliefs, traditions and cultures within the University - and to bring these cultures together in a spirit of creativity, mutual enlightenment and fun.
DCU Chaplaincy includes four Chaplains and three support personnel, working across three Campuses and three key faith spaces: Inter Faith Centre (Glasnevin Campus), Our Lady Seat of Wisdom Chapel (St Patrick’s Campus) and All Hallows Chapel (All Hallows Campus).
Working across three campuses, DCU Chaplaincy provides daily religious services as well as private spaces for spiritual observation and ablution. They host celebrations for all faiths and facilitate a range of events that build community outside of faith traditions - from free student lunches to get-togethers for international students. They provide pastoral care and confidential support to students and staff. DCU is home to Ireland's first Inter Faith Centre, which remains the countries only dedicated Inter Faith facility at third level.
The Careers Service is DCU’s central hub for employability. Through learning and development initiatives, it empowers students to shape their futures to become successful in their chosen career paths. It provides opportunities to connect students with the agile nature of the world of work; and be a leading player in the talent development and employer engagement for our local, national, and global communities.
Students can engage with the careers services to build career skills through their online resources, career conversations podcasts, career preparation short courses and careers skills sessions. The service also offers one-to-one consultations with DCU expert Careers Advisors, through Careers Clinics and Appointments
Students can visit MyCareer, where a wide range of opportunities, from seasonal work and summer internships to graduate-level roles are advertised.
Please be aware that the Careers Service does not offer support for students seeking part-time work or internships during their exchange at DCU.
Student Advice Centre and Learning Centre
The DCU Student Advice and Learning Skills Centre, is a unit of Student Support & Development, supporting students in their transition to university and throughout their student journey towards graduation.
These services are provided to the entire student population across all campuses and online. It aims to support students to reach their academic and personal potential through individual advice, guidance and development opportunities.
They also offer online one-to-one life skills coaching and group programmes such as 'Pathways to Success', helping students identify goals and frameworks to help them reach their full potential.
Student Advice and Learning Centre (SAL) are located on both DCU Glasnevin Campus and DCU St Patrick’s Campus
Contact Details:
Glasnevin Campus SAL
Henry Grattan Building - Ground floor - CG00
T+ 353 1 700 7165
St. Patrick's Campus SAL
C Block - Ground floor - C101
T: +353 1 700 9018
Disability and Learning Support Service
The aim of the Disability & Learning Support Service is to provide a student-centered multi-disciplinary service that empowers and enables students to reach their full potential in an inclusive learning environment.
They are committed to a university-wide approach in the promotion of equality of access and opportunities.
International students are encouraged to contact the Disability & Learning Support Service team in the months prior to arriving at DCU. This ensures they receive information about available supports tailored to their needs.
DCU provides a variety of reasonable accommodations for students registered with the Disability & Learning Support Service, adhering to current legislation and best practices. It is important to note that supports provided at DCU may differ from those at your home university.
Evidence of your disability is also necessary to register with the Disability & Learning Support Service – details regarding the types of evidence accepted can be found HERE. Please ensure that any non-English documentation is translated by a professional translator into English.
Erasmus+ students are advised to apply for funded supports from their home country and/or home university before arriving at DCU.
Erasmus+ Grant – Provides additional funding for students with a disability to assist them in their Erasmus+ programme, see here
Erasmus Student Network (ESN)– which links students on Erasmus programmes, see here
Other relevant resources:
AHEAD – information for students with disabilities considering travelling abroad to study, see here
Visit DEVELOP to find Digital Resources on Loop for College, Life and Career
Contact details:
Glasnevin Campus
Disability & Learning Support Service
Room CG28
Henry Grattan Building
Telephone: (01) 7005927
Email: disability.service@dcu.ie
St. Patrick's Campus and All Hallows Campus
Disability Officer
Room A102
St. Patrick's Campus
Telephone: (01)700 9212
Email: disability.service@dcu.ie
Counselling and Personal Development services
The Counselling and Personal Development Service is a professional, confidential, and free service, which is available to all registered undergraduate and postgraduate DCU students.
The service offers one-to-one (individual) counselling and specialised guidance on various personal, academic, familial, social, psychological and mental health concerns that may impact a student's academic performance, fostering a non-judgmental and supportive environment. Immediate crisis support is also available. Additionally, the service also provides on-line resources on wellbeing, resilience, and mental health, including bibliotherapy for self-help reading on psychological health. Ther are also mindfulness sessions, wellbeing workshops for stress reduction during lunchtime, and a student empowerment program that includes facilitated forums on bereavement and online cognitive behavioural therapy tools.
If you wish to enquire about a counselling appointment, please contact our colleagues at the email addresses below using your DCU student email address.
For The Glasnevin Campus, please email counselling@dcu.ie
For The St Patrick's Campus, please email spd.counselling@dcu.ie
Please note that The DCU Counselling and Personal Development Service operates from Monday to Friday between 9.00am and 5.00pm.
For afterhours support services, please refer to our website here.
During opening hours (0930 - 1700 Monday to Friday) the Student Health Centre can be reached on:
Glasnevin Campus 01 700 5143
St Patrick's Campus 01 700 9215
If your emergency is on a DCU campus you should call security 01 700 5999
DCU Security are available 24/7 for emergencies on campus.
Ambulance Service
If you require emergency ambulance service, please phone 999/112.
SafeZone App
SafeZone is a free app designed to emergency support to all DCU students.
By activating the app on their smartphones and selecting from three alert options (Emergency, First Aid, or Help), users can quickly notify the University Security team. activation, the user’s location is immediately sent to security personnel enabling them to coordinate and provide the necessary help, promptly and efficiently.
The app ensures user privacy, as location information is only shared when an alert is activated, within designated zones.
Additionally, SafeZone includes a "check-in" feature for individuals working alone or outside regular hours, such as in research laboratories. This feature sends their location and ID directly to campus security, ensuring their safety.
In critical incidents or emergencies, Emergency Response teams can utilise SafeZone to issue updates and information to users. Moreover, during overseas critical incidents, the app allows DCU's campus emergency response team to check in with registered users, ascertain their locations, and collaborate with local emergency services as needed.
For more detailed information on SafeZone, click here.
Award winning Gym and Sports Facilities
The award-winning sports complex has everything you need to achieve your fitness goals, from the fully equipped gym to our 25m swimming pool with spa facilities. If you prefer fitness classes, they offer over 40 classes per week with everything from Metcon to Spin and Pilates.
The Sports Complex arena hosts many large events in basketball, badminton, volleyball, and dance. They also have a climbing wall, a squash court, and a racquetball/handball court. Several DCU sports clubs train in our facilities ranging from swimming, badminton, basketball, soccer to boxing and rock climbing. The campus also has eight outdoor astro soccer pitches.
Only our Study Abroad programme students have access to DCU Sports complex facilities included in their tuition fees. Please note that students coming to DCU on Erasmus/Exchange will have to pay for access to these facilities. You will find the most up to date fees here.
Opened in 2002, the Helix is an award-winning purpose-built conference venue on our DCU Glasnevin Campus. The Helix hosts a range of different events from plays to concerts and TV shows. Most recently The Helix has been awarded Ireland’s best purpose-built venue. Offering nine different room options from 12 people in the boardroom to 1,200 people for a plenary session in the Mahony hall.
Stay tuned in The Helix website to see what events are on.
DCU International Academy
DCU International Academy comprises of an educational training centre for language and university pathway programmes, translation services and an IELTS exam centre.
With over 30 years of experience, our Language School has welcomed students from over 105 different countries assisting them to advance their educational and personal goals.
All our English courses include General English, Business English, Exam Preparation, Bespoke Adult Group Programmes and Junior Summer Programmes.
Upon completing your studies at DCU, you become part of our Alumni network, a unique and enduring university community with approximately 90,000 graduates worldwide. This network spans every corner of the globe, offering our graduates numerous opportunities to engage with the university both domestically and internationally through our International Chapters.
Our mission is to cultivate a lifelong relationship with our graduates, beginning with meaningful engagement during their student experience and continuing as they advance in their professional careers. We offer a variety of engagement activities designed to support our Alumni at every stage of their professional journey and beyond. This diverse array of activities ensures that all graduates have the opportunity to stay connected and engaged with their alma mater.
This association is a valuable social and professional network for graduates supported by online groups on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.
Where to eat on Campus?
There are a number of restaurants/cafés in various parts of the campus:
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Main Campus Restaurant;
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Zest Bar (Sports Club);
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Zero One (Library);
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ER Restaurant (School of Nursing);
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DCUBS Café (DCU Business School);
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Invent Café (Invent Building);
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On-campus convenience store Londis.
DCU offers car parking to students using a virtual parking system in all campuses.
There are three free car parking areas and two paid parking areas. DCU Campus Residence also offers paid parking for students.
Information on how to access the car parking and parking permits can be found here.
In keeping with the University's Climate Action Roadmap, we encourage students and staff to consider public transport options when travelling to DCU when possible. Further information about commuting to DCU can be found here, including information about public transport routes and cycling.
What can I study at DCU?
International visiting students at DCU can apply to study for one semester or a full academic year across DCU’s five Faculties which will correspond to their study stream:
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
- Faculty of Engineering and Computing
- Faculty of Science and Health
- DCU Business School
- DCU Institute of Education
International visiting students may choose courses up to a maximum of 30 ECTS credits (equivalent to 18 US credits) in a single semester. There are five programme streams. Each one is linked in one of our faculties.
Students choose the stream closest to their major/specialisation at home.
Each programme stream offers a list of available modules to choose from and a list of electives from other faculties - you will not be able to enrol in modules outside of your admitted programme stream.
| Humanities and Social Sciences | DCU Business School |
|
Applied Languages, Intercultural Studies, Law, Government, English, Poetry, Theology, Philosophy, Music, and Communications
In addition – electives from Business, Science and Health. |
International Marketing, Digital Marketing, Finance, Economics, New Product Development, Innovation, Business Systems and HRM
In addition – electives from Humanities and Social Sciences, Science and Health. |
| Engineering and Computing | Science and Health |
|
Mechanical, Manufacturing, Electronic Engineering, and Computing
In addition – electives from Science and Health, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Business. |
Biotechnology, Environmental Science, Health Science, Chemical Science, Mathematical Science, and Physics
In addition – electives from Engineering and Computing, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Business. |
| Institute of Education | |
|
Education Studies, Early Childhood Education, Education Policy, and Practice. In addition – electives from Humanities and Social Sciences |
|
The maximum number of credits permitted per semester is 30 ECTS.
Several restrictions apply, and students are advised to research their choices carefully before making their selection (and completing the Learning Agreement for Erasmus+ students).
Students are not allowed to study post-grad modules.
Students should also ensure that credits for their chosen modules will be accepted by their home institution.
The module catalogue for the new academic year will only be made available to nominated students after they have applied. They can use the catalogue from the previous year as a guide. Module offerings are stable.
We cannot guarantee students will get all their module choices.
How can I apply to study at DCU?
General Requirements
Admission requirements for international incoming students at DCU are the following:
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Hold a valid Passport or EU national identity cards if applicable;
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Students must be registered at a University outside Ireland;
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Students should have completed at least one year of university study;
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Non-native English speakers should submit evidence of their proficiency in the English language.
Erasmus+ and Exchange students: nomination & application process
Participating in an Erasmus or student exchange program with another university offers an excellent opportunity to broaden your international experience and immerse yourself in student life in a different country.
To study at Dublin City University (DCU) as an Erasmus or Exchange student, your home university must have an Erasmus+ Bilateral Agreement with DCU, and you must first be nominated by your home university.
Once nominations are closed, nominated students will receive an email in April or October containing a link to the online application form. Students will be required to submit the following documents with their application:
- Copy of Passport
- Copy of Transcript (the most recent version)
During the application process, students will also be asked to disclose if they have any specific learning difficulties. If so, this information will be shared with our Disability & Learning Support Service to ensure appropriate support is available from the moment you arrive at DCU.
Application Deadlines
- Semester 1 and full-year students: end of May of each year
- Semester 2 students: end of October of each year
For any questions, please contact the International Mobility Team at incoming.mobility@dcu.ie
If you are interested in a short-term mobility program without a pre-existing bilateral agreement, please reach out to study.abroad@dcu.ie.
Once your application has been completed and processed by the International Mobility Team, you will receive a second email with an offer of a place in the Erasmus/Exchange program at DCU. This email will include further information about accommodation, modules, and other Erasmus-related matters. Please note that due to the high volume of applications, this process can take several weeks.
Module choices for the upcoming academic year will be shared with students in June. You will then need to complete an online module registration form.
For all communications regarding the incoming Erasmus/Exchange program, please email incoming.mobility@dcu.ie.
Erasmus+ and Exchange students do not pay tuition fees.
If there are any issues with your application, you will be contacted via email. Please ensure that you use your home university student email address for all communications during this period.
Study Abroad programme: application process
Our Study Abroad programme is a fee-paying programme which offers a unique opportunity for students to join the vibrant academic community.
For more information about the fees, please contact us at study.abroad@dcu.ie.
How to apply to DCU Study Abroad Programme
- Direct Entry to DCU
- Apply through a Third-Party Provider: DCU has longstanding partnerships with various third-party international education organisations around the world. You can contact them directly for application procedures.
- Apply through Partner University: Check with your home university study abroad office to see if a linkage agreement exists between them and DCU.
If you are applying as a Direct Enrolment student, please refer to the Online Application form link which is published in our DCU Study Abroad Programme website or contact us at study.abroad@dcu.ie so you can receive it.
If you are applying through a Third-Party Provider or a Partner University, please contact them for further information before applying through our online application form. Then, you will receive by email the Online Application form link.
Once you complete the application form and the International Mobility Team has processed the application, you will be sent a letter of acceptance or refusal. The letter also mentions further information regarding accommodation, modules and other Study Abroad matters. Please note, this can sometimes take several weeks due to the high volume of applications we receive.
You will need to reply to the email, either accepting or rejecting the offer.
You will also be contacted by email if there are any issues with your application.
Application Deadlines
- Semester 1 and full-year students: end of May of each year
- Semester 2 students: end of October of each year
Tuition fee payment
As a Study Abroad programme student, you are required to pay tuition fees to DCU. Fees includes the student levy, capitation fee and development fee.
Direct Enrolment student or when the Partner University is not covering the tuition fee):
If you are studying at DCU for a single semester student (only one semester), fees must be paid in full before the start of the programme.
If you are coming for the Full Academic Year, you can avail of 60/40 option:
- 60% of the tuition fees are paid on Registration on 31st August of each year;
- 40% of the tuition fees are paid by 31st December of each year.
The payment deadlines for all Study Abroad students are as follows:
- 31st August of each year - for students studying during Semester 1 / Fall;
- 31st December of each year - for students studying during Semester 2 / Spring.
Applying through a Third-Party Provider or when a Partner University covers the tuition fee:
In this case, please speak with your Provider or Home university regarding processing the tuition fee payment.
DCU accepts bank transfers or can accept debit/credit card online payments. Please see below the payment methods available to Study Abroad students.
Fee Payment Method Options
If you are making the payment from a European Union bank account, please initiate a bank transfer to the IBAN provided on the web page above and always ensure you use your student ID number on remittance as payment reference.
Letters of acceptance
After you submit your application, you will receive communication from our team confirming your application. You will then receive your acceptance letter (or refusal letter) from DCU after the application deadline.
You should keep the letter of acceptance with you as you can use it for your visa application and/or entering Dublin’s airport.
Before I arrive
Accommodation (campus/off-campus)
Please note that Dublin is currently facing a housing shortage for students and the general population. Unfortunately, DCU is unable to provide accommodation for all incoming students. Incoming students are expected to find accommodation independently.
On-Campus Accommodation:
Incoming students can apply to join the waitlist for on-campus accommodation at www.dcuaccommodation.ie. NB: There is no application fee for international students. Please note the closing date of applications for on campus accommodation.
The room allocation is based on a lottery. As a room is not guaranteed, students are advised to explore off-campus accommodation facilities to ensure accommodation for the duration of your stay.
Our on-campus accommodation has a team focused on student engagement and events programme to keep you connected with other students and looking after your well-being while you stay with us.
Our Reception and Term-Time teams are on-hand via email and phone for anything you need during your stay. If you prefer, you can also pop down to our Reception during opening hours for a chat.
For further information, please visit DCU accommodation website: https://www.dcuaccommodation.ie/
Off Campus Accommodation:
The following websites will assist in finding suitable accommodation.
Resources in DCU: Accommodation Guidelines for DCU International Students
StudentPad, is the official DCUSU off-campus accommodation listings. The DCUSU provides this platform to help all Dublin City University students find suitable accommodation. Please note you cannot access this site until you have submitted your application to DCU. Once you have received your DCU ID, you can use this to access this site.
Student residences close to DCU:
- Gateway Student Village
- Shanowen Square
- Shanowen Hall
- Schoolhouse Court
- Uninest Student Residences
- Aspen
Please note that these residences are not affiliated with DCU.
It is useful to familiarise yourself with DCU's location before starting your search. When searching for a room, filters that identify areas close to the University include:
- Dublin 5: Artane, Killester, Raheny, Donnycarney
- Dublin 7: Phibsboro
- Dublin 9: Beaumont, Santry, Drumcondra
- Dublin 11: Glasnevin, Finglas
General housing listings in Dublin and elsewhere:
Because of the high demand for housing, there might be rental scams. Before paying for a room, check Threshold's advice on how to spot a scam. Information from the Competition & Consumer Protection Commission.
Visa/Immigration
Please check if you need to apply for an entry visa before you come to Ireland to study. You can apply for a study visa up to 3 months before your date of travel to Ireland.
Not all international students require an entry visa for Ireland. Please check this link to see if you are a visa required national: https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/moving-country/visas-for-ireland/visa-requirements-for-entering-ireland/
If you require a visa to study in Ireland, the first step for your Irish entry visa application is to check the requirements of the closest Irish Embassy and then fill out the visa application AVATS form.
Registering permission for the first time: If you are from a country outside the European Economic Area, the UK, or Switzerland, and come to Ireland to study for more than 90 days, you must register your immigration permission with your local immigration office.
Booking the registration appointment: please call Freephone 1800 800 630.
You cannot register with the Immigration Office (INIS) until after you have commenced your academic programme in DCU as you will not be in possession of your DCU student ID card as a registered student of DCU.
Always cancel an appointment if you cannot attend for any reason.
You will be required to have your student ID card and a letter from DCU Registry confirming your registration. This letter must be dated within five days of your appointment with the immigration office.
Should you have any difficulty obtaining an appointment, please contact immigrationsupport@justice.ie.
Our DCU Student Support & Development team is at your disposal in case of any questions regarding visas.
Health insurance
EU Medical Cover
As an EU student, you are eligible to avail of free or reduced healthcare costs when travelling within Europe. In order to access, bring a European Health Card with you, which you can obtain from your local health authority in your home country. The European Health Card entitles you to public health care for medical treatment. More information can be found here.
Private Health Insurance
If you are a non-EU student, you are required to have private health insurance. This insurance can either be from your home country (ensure it is translated into English) or purchased online from an Irish provider.
The main providers of cover in Ireland are:
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Laya Healthcare: www.layahealthcare.ie
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Irish Life: www.irishlife.ie
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Study and Protect: studyandprotect.com
More information can be found here.
Dublin city cost of living
Navigating Dublin City may require a well-organised financial plan to make the most of your studies.
Below is a sample budget tailored to Dublin and we recommend you research the latest trends online.
Travel Card within Dublin
Young Adult Leap Card (Under 24): https://www.leapcard.ie
A TFI Leap Card is a prepaid travel card that is the easiest way to pay your fare on public transport around Ireland.
You can preorder your Leap card and have it sent to our office, and you can collect when you arrive in Ireland during our office hours: Monday - Friday 9am-1pm and 2-5pm:
Placement Unit
CAG101 Henry Grattan Building
DCU Glasnevin Campus
Dublin 9
D09 Y074
Ireland
For students aged 24+, you can order your student leap card online and collect it from our student union office, on either on Glasnevin or St. Patrick's campus: https://leapcard.ie/en/NavigationPages/CardPurchase.aspx
Orientation week calendar
Orientation week for new International Students will include online and in-person activities to welcome new international students to DCU, and to provide valuable information regarding the University and the academic study stream.
Orientation will take place on campus the week prior to the start of teaching each Semester. This is mandatory for all students. A link will be sent the week prior to the orientation, to the email address provided during application, with the finalised agenda.
If you are unable to attend the activities during this week, please contact incoming.mobility@dcu.ie or study.abroad@dcu.ie, depending on your mobility programme.
Campus Tours will be offered the week prior to the start of lectures on two campuses. This information will be emailed to you prior to your start in DCU.
Planning my studies
Planning your studies and understanding academic systems such as DCU grading, credit system, module choices and DCU assessment types are key to academic success.
Academic adjustment
Attendance at lectures at DCU is generally not monitored, it is the responsibility of the student to attend lectures and avoid missing classes. There is a culture of ‘class attendance’ in Ireland, please remember that you may need to take part in class projects with your colleagues. If, however, you miss a substantial number of classes for personal or health reasons, you should talk to the lecturer, and they will advise you how to avoid difficulties with the particular module.
Classes can vary in format, and they typically are:
- Lectures or Seminars: formal presentation conducted by your lecturer;
- Tutorials: smaller classes that facilitate discussions on lecture content and assignments;
- Workshops: practical learning with group discussions;
- Labs: practical laboratory work.
Credits
DCU uses the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). The student workload at DCU is determined based on the number of credits you take, rather than number of modules. Credit values for modules will vary between 5, 7.5 or 10 ECTS values depending on the workload required.
In one semester, students are expected to take 20-30 ECTS to be a full-time registered student for visa and immigration purposes. In some circumstances, you can take a lower load of ECTS if agreed between your home university and DCU.
All international students can take a maximum of 30 ECTS per semester, 60 ECTS per year.
Please ensure you confirm with your home university the number of credits you need to enrol in at DCU to receive full transfer credit for your term abroad.
Academic Assessment
In terms of assessments, DCU modules utilise three assessment methods:
- Written examinations at the end of each semester;
- 100% Continuous assessment which may be in form of oral or written presentations, class participation, laboratory work, in-class quizzes, or project-based assessments.
- Certain modules incorporate a combination of both continuous assessment and examinations.
Regardless of the assessment type, if you fail a module you need to resit the examination in July/August in DCU (see Academic Calendar).
All students will receive individual grades for the modules they have chosen.
The grading system for the honours bachelor's degree at DCU is as follows:
| First Class Honours | 70% - 100% |
| Second Class Honours, grade one | 60% - 69% |
| Second Class Honours, grade two | 50% - 59% |
| Third Class Honours | 40% - 49% |
| Fail | 0% - 39% |
Academic Calendar
When applying to study at DCU, please ensure that your academic calendar aligns with DCU’s calendar.
Please find below information on DCU Academic Calendars in our website: Academic Calendars
Every Academic year has two main parts: Semester 1 and Semester 2.
- Semester 1 starts in early September and ends in early December. Students have classes during this time, and then exams just before the Christmas break.
- Semester 2 begins in early January and finishes up in early April. Again, students have classes during this time, and exams will be done by the beginning of May.
In each semester, for some programmes, DCU has a “reading week” which is a period where students have a break from regular classes and coursework to focus on independent study and catch up on readings or assignments. It provides an opportunity for students to consolidate their learning, engage with course materials in-depth, and prepare for upcoming assessments or exams.
The University remains open during the reading week, so students can use the libraries and/or study spaces.
After each semester, you can find your transcript of results with the modules you were enrolled in and the credits (ECTS) you earn. If you only study during Semester 1, you will receive your transcript in February of the next civil year. If you study during Semester 2 or for the full academic year, you will receive your transcript in June.
We would also stress to be mindful of Ireland’s bank holidays calendar each year.
Class Timetable
Please note that the timetable will not be available until the week prior to lectures.
In case you have class timetable conflicts, you will be able to change your modules after the start of the Semester.
Further instructions will be shared with you in advance.
During my studies
Arriving in Dublin
Students should arrive in Dublin the week prior to the start of semester, Orientation will take place on the DCU Glasnevin campus. Upon arrival, you can collect your DCU student ID card from the Registry Office (please ensure you bring official photographic ID).
From this point forward, please only use your DCU email address and include your student ID number in all correspondence with DCU staff members.
Login credentials and MFA authentication
Once you receive your DCU email address and login details, you can login to your student accounts.
We require students to download the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device to login to your student accounts. Please refer to the instructions on how to download it and access your accounts in our Student Multifactor Authentication (MFA) webpage.
MFA provides additional security to your DCU student account, ensuring that it cannot be accessed without your knowledge. MFA requires a second mode of authentication via the Microsoft Authenticator app.
Once enrolled in MFA, you can log in using your DCU email address and password through Gmail, then confirm your identity using the MFA app on your smartphone.
Loop
Loop is DCU’s digital learning environment, providing students access to course content, materials, and a platform to connect with teachers and fellow learners. Through Loop, you can access notes, participate in discussion forums, engage in interactive assignments, and submit assessments.
It is crucial for students to frequently log in to Loop, submit all required assignments, and consult the class materials regularly.
Your enrolled modules will be visible in Loop. If you do not see a particular module, please contact us at incoming.mobility@dcu.ie if you are an Erasmus or Exchange student, or at study.abroad@dcu.ie if you are a Study Abroad student.
DCU’s International Mobility team also manages a dedicated Loop page for Erasmus, Exchange, and Study Abroad students, where we publish essential information regarding your studies and share details about social events for international students.
Learning Agreements
If you are an Erasmus or Exchange, please ensure the contact information on your Learning Agreement for DCU is correct:
- Name: Vikki Doyle, International Mobility Team,
- Email address: incoming.mobility@dcu.ie
- Contact telephone number 00353 1 7005251
We will not approve Learning Agreements with any other contact information.
Prior to sending us your Learning Agreement, please make sure your home university has agreed with your choices. If you are submitting your Learning Agreement to us by email (incoming.mobility@dcu.ie), please ensure that both you and your home university have signed the document.
If you would like to create your Learning Agreement online, please speak with your home university and if they are in agreement, please go to https://learning- agreement.eu/
If you are a Study Abroad student, please ensure the contact information for DCU is correct:
- Name: Catarina Ramalho, International Mobility Team
- Email address: study.abroad@dcu.ie
- Contact telephone number 00353 1 7005251
For all students, we will not be signing Learning Agreements prior to the month of arrival.
If you require any documents signed or stamped you can email them to incoming.mobility@dcu.ie or study.abroad@dcu.ie respectively or please come meet our team at DCU Placement Unit office in the Henry Grattan building, Glasnevin Campus. We will be happy to assist you and sign/stamp your documentation.
If you are emailing documents, please allow several days for documents to be processed.
How to request a registration/attendance letter?
Once you have arrived in DCU, you can request letters of support as proof of your registration at DCU Registry in person in DCU Glasnevin or DCU St. Patricks campus or online through Registry contact form.
These letters can be useful if you intend to open a bank account in Ireland, request a PPS number (Personal Public Service Number) or attend your Irish Residence Permit appointment.
When requesting a letter to the Registry, please ensure that you include the reason for the letter and the information that you require included. You also need to ensure that you include your DCU student number and email address.
Orientation week
The Orientation week for international students is an important part of your academic stay at DCU. This will take place in the week prior to the commencement of the academic semester, and you will find full details on our webpage.
We would encourage our International Students to attend all orientation sessions that take place during orientation week.
Orientation will include presentations by our colleagues in the following Support Departments:
- Student Support & Development;
- Registry and International Student Support;
- Information System Services (ISS);
- DCU Libraries;
- Erasmus Student Network (ESN).
During Orientation week, we will arrange an in-person meeting for you with your Academic Coordinator. Information will be sent to you in due course.
During the second week of the semester, you will be invited to join us at a welcome event for new international students at DCU.
DCU Students’ Union (DCUSU)
All DCU students are automatically members of the DCU Students’ Union (DCUSU). DCUSU supports you throughout your time at DCU by providing opportunities, driving change, organising great events on campus, and offering support to all students.
DCU Clubs and Socs: With over 140 clubs and societies across campuses, DCU caters to all interests, hobbies, and passions. Whether you want to develop existing skills or try something completely new, joining a club or society at DCU is one of the best decisions you can make.
DCUSU also regularly organises events on campus. For more information, visit their website: DCU Student Life.
Erasmus Students Network (ESN)
ESN DCU or the Erasmus Student Network DCU is a student organisation which is part of the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) and aims to help integrate international students into DCU and to help prepare DCU students for life abroad on mobility. ESN DCU is based on the motto “students helping students”. ESN DCU organise activities and trips for international students every week throughout the year.
How to join ESN:
Students first need to be an ESN DCU Member and pay the €4 membership fee here: https://dcuclubsandsocs.ie/society/erasmus
How to buy an ESN card:
After becoming a member of ESN DCU, students need to fill out the following form to buy an ESN card: https://forms.gle/2xkzw7WBPiYZA5AC9
You can reach ESN DCU via email on if you have any further questions: erasmusstudentnetworkdcu@gmail.com
Student Welfare – Student grievance
Should you encounter difficulties during your academic studies at DCU, you are advised to follow the official Student Complaint Policy to deal with this in an appropriate manner. Please see the below link for further information on the Students Complaints & Grievance Procedure:
The Student Complaint Policy provides a comprehensive method for the resolution of grievances. Issues raised under it will be processed in accordance with the principles of full consultation during the process and in accordance with the general principles of natural justice and fair procedures.
This procedure must be followed when submitting a complaint about any aspect of academic processes and procedures, administrative or student support services provided by the university but does not cover the following categories:
- Complaints related to personal harassment or bullying, involving a member of DCU staff;
- Appeals of grades for examinations or assessments;
- Complaints about the Students’ Union;
- Appeals against decisions taken by the Disciplinary Committee;
- Complaints related to Campus Companies.
For more information, please read through the full procedures prior to submitting a grievance.
https://www.dcu.ie/students/student-complaint-policy
https://www.dcu.ie/students/student-grievance-procedures
End of your studies
Transcripts / Digitary CORE
How do I get an official transcript of my results?
All students will receive their final results in a E-Transcript through Digitary CORE. This is automatically issued within 2 weeks of the publication of your results by the Registry and can be accessed through the link here: https://core.digitary.net/r/user/shibboleth
The transcripts on Digitary CORE are valid and tamper proof document in digital format which students can access and share with third parties, such as your home institution.
Students who are doing Semester 1 and Semester 2 modules do not receive a transcript through Digitary CORE until they have completed the full year.
What happens if I fail a module?
If you have failed or deferred modules during the Academic year at DCU, these modules should be taken at the next available opportunity as defined in the reassessment requirement in the module descriptors - this may be during the resit period which is usually held in July/August each year.
Students should also pay close attention to the programme regulations outlining the specific regulations pertaining to their programme.
Do I need to register, and do I need to pay for my resit?
- If you have failed modules you will need to register for your resits and pay the resit fee;
- If all your modules are deferred, you will automatically be registered for your resits and you will not be required to pay the resit fee;
- If you have some deferred modules and have some failed modules you will be required to register for your resits and pay the resit fee;
- The resit fee needs to be paid if you have failed exams or/and CA;
- The resit registration fee is €150 irrespective of the number of resits to be taken;
- Dates for registration for resits will be confirmed after the promulgation of the semester 2 results (see Academic Calendar), you will be given plenty of time to register and pay.
More information regarding the Resit Examinations & Continuous Assessments can be found here.
Submit a student testimonial!
As part of our commitment to enhancing the international student experience in DCU, at the end of your studies we will kindly request your participation in our Call for Testimonials!
Your valuable insights will play a pivotal role in encouraging others to explore the world and make informed decisions about their plans to study abroad.
What to Include in Your Testimonial:
- Highlights and Challenges: Describe the most memorable moments and any challenges you faced during your time abroad.
- Tips and Recommendations: Offer advice for students considering a study abroad experience and highlight any resources that were particularly helpful for you.
- A Photo of your time abroad (optional).
We will ask your permission to share your testimonial and photo in our promotional materials and DCU's website.
Where to find us
Address:
International Mobility Team,
Placement Unit
CAG101, Henry Grattan Building,
Glasnevin Campus, Dublin City University
Dublin 9,
D09 Y074,
Contacts:
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Incoming Erasmus+/Exchange: incoming.mobility@dcu.ie
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Outgoing Erasmus+/Exchange: outgoing.mobility@dcu.ie
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Study Abroad: study.abroad@dcu.ie
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Staff Mobility & Agreement Queries: international.mobility@dcu.ie
Website:
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DCU Institutional website: www.dcu.ie
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DCU International Mobility webpage: www.dcu.ie/placement