DCU English Language Requirements for Non-Native Speakers of English
Applicants must provide evidence of competence in the English language. The minimum standards for entry to DCU are outlined below.
*Please note these webpages are currently being updated and will be finalised shortly. If you require any clarification on english language requirements, please contact the admissions team.
Undergraduate Applicants - Minimum English Standards
Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of equivalent competence in English Language, through their school leaving examination or in a recognised English language test. The minimum standards for entry to DCU are outlined below.
Applicants are assessed on the results of a single sitting only.
| EXAMINATION | Level Required |
|---|---|
| Irish Leaving Certificate English | O6/H7 |
| GCE A-Level English Language | Grade D |
| GSCE | Grade C |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic |
Composite score of 6.5 or above, with no less than 6.0 in any one component. *Scores must be achieved in one sitting. |
| TOEFL |
237 (computer-based) 580 (paper-based test) |
| TOEFL iBT |
Total Score of 92 Or Minimum score of 4.5 Overall Minimum overall score of 4.5, with no less than 4.5 in each section (Depending on Scoring system used at time the time test was taken). TOEFL Home Edition is not accepted. |
| Cambridge Certificate |
English language examinations administered by the University of Cambridge: 180 on Cambridge English scale, with no less than 169 in each skill and evidence of use of english presenting one of the acceptable examinations below. (Overall score of 180 will change to 176+ for entry 2027) Acceptable Examinations: Proficiency Certificate, Grade C (i.e. CEFR Level C1 or C2). |
| English Test for Academic and Professional Purposes (ETAPP) | Minimum grade C1 or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2) |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) | 63 with a minimum of 59 in all components. |
| Duolingo | Duolingo will be accepted with a minimum overall score of 120 and a score of at least 110 in each of the Individual Subscores - Speaking, Writing, Reading and Listening. Please ensure the verification link is provided when submitting this evidence and you share your results with DCU. |
| For Entry 2027 | |
| International English Language Competency Assessment (IELCA) Academic | Minimum score of 35 with a minimum of 33 in each band. |
| Language Cert (English for Speakers of other Languages - ESOL) | B2 Communicator High Pass with no less than 33 in each skill taken with no more than 3 months between components. |
| Language Cert Academic | 70 overall with 65 in each skill |
| Oxford English Test | Minimum score of 140 overall with a minimum score of 125 in each skill with no more than 3 months between sittings. |
| Trinity Integrated Skills in English (ISE) | Trinity ISE III with at least merit in each skill category. |
Additional Information
- Your English language certificate must be awarded within the two years prior to the start date of your DCU programme.
- English Language requirements for individual programmes may be higher than published here. Please refer to the programme page for further details.
- Scores on your English language proficiency test must be achieved in one sitting.
Alternative Requirements/Evidence of Competency
In exceptional circumstances, results in examinations other than those published may be accepted as proof of competence in English language. This may include non-native speakers of English who have completed their education through the medium of English in a country where English is the official language. Please include the details of any English language examinations and proof of successful completion when applying to DCU.
For further details about DCU English Language Requirements, please contact DCU Admissions.
Postgraduate Applicants - Minimum English Standards
Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of equivalent competence in English Language in a recognised English language test. The minimum standards for entry to DCU are outlined below.
Applicants are assessed on the results of a single sitting only.
Faculty of Science and health
In the case of all applications, evidence MUST be provided of competence in the English Language. The list below indicates the minimum standards in the English language, which should be met for entry to the postgraduate taught programmes in the Faculty of Science and Health.
| EXAMINATION | MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic |
Composite score of 6.5 or above, with no less than 6.0 in any one component. *Scores must be achieved in one sitting. |
| TOEFL |
237 (computer-based) 580 (paper-based test) |
| TOEFL iBT |
Overall score 92. Or Minimum score of 4.5 Overall with no less than 4.5 in each section (Depending on Scoring system used at time the time test was taken). TOEFL Home Edition is not accepted. |
| Cambridge Certificate |
English language examinations administered by the University of Cambridge: 180 on Cambridge English scale, with no less than 169 in each skill and evidence of use of english presenting one of the acceptable examinations below. (Overall score of 180 will change to 176+ for entry 2027) Acceptable Examinations: Proficiency Certificate, Grade C (i.e. CEFR Level C1 or C2). |
| English Test for Academic and Professional Purposes (ETAPP) | Minimum grade C1 or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2) |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) | 63 with a minimum of 59 in all components. |
| Duolingo | Duolingo will be accepted with a minimum overall score of 120 and a score of at least 110 in each of the Individual Subscores - Speaking, Writing, Reading and Listening. Please ensure the verification link is provided when submitting this evidence and you share your results with DCU. |
| For Entry 2027 | |
| International English Language Competency Assessment (IELCA) Academic | Minimum score of 35 with a minimum of 33 in each band. |
| Language Cert (English for Speakers of other Languages - ESOL) | B2 Communicator High Pass with no less than 33 in each skill taken with no more than 3 months between components. |
| Language Cert Academic | 70 overall with 65 in each skill. |
| Oxford English Test | Minimum score of 140 overall with a minimum score of 125 in each skill with no more than 3 months between sittings. |
| Trinity Integrated Skills in English (ISE) | Trinity ISE III with at least merit in each skill category. |
Additional Notes:
1. English language certificates must be awarded within two years prior to the start date of your DCU programme.
2. English Language requirements for individual programmes may be higher than published here. Please refer to the programme page for further details.
3. All scores on your English language proficiency test must be achieved in one sitting.
DCU Institute of Education
In the case of all applications, evidence MUST be provided of competence in the English Language. The list below indicates the minimum standards in the English language, which should be met for entry to the postgraduate taught programmes in the DCU Institute of Education.
| EXAMINATION | MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic |
Composite score of 6.5 or above, with no less than 6.0 in any one component. *Scores must be achieved in one sitting. |
| TOEFL |
237 (computer-based) 580 (paper-based test) |
| TOEFL iBT |
Total Score of 92 Or Minimum score of 4.5 Overall Minimum overall score of 4.5, with no less than 4.5 in each section (Depending on Scoring system used at time the time test was taken). TOEFL Home Edition is not accepted. |
| Cambridge Certificate |
English language examinations administered by the University of Cambridge: 180 on Cambridge English scale, with no less than 169 in each skill and evidence of use of english presenting one of the acceptable examinations below. (Overall score of 180 will change to 176+ for entry 2027) Acceptable Examinations: Proficiency Certificate, Grade C (i.e. CEFR Level C1 or C2). |
| English Test for Academic and Professional Purposes (ETAPP) | Minimum grade C1 or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2). |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) | 63 with a minimum of 59 in all components. |
| Duolingo | Duolingo will be accepted with a minimum overall score of 120 and a score of at least 110 in each of the Individual Subscores - Speaking, Writing, Reading and Listening. Please ensure the verification link is provided when submitting this evidence and you share your results with DCU. |
| For Entry 2027 | |
| International English Language Competency Assessment (IELCA) Academic | Minimum score of 35 with a minimum of 33 in each band. |
| Language Cert (English for Speakers of other Languages - ESOL) | B2 Communicator High Pass with no less than 33 in each skill taken with no more than 3 months between components. |
| Language Cert Academic | 70 overall with 65 in each skill |
| Oxford English Test | Minimum score of 140 overall with a minimum score of 125 in each skill with no more than 3 months between sittings. |
| Trinity Integrated Skills in English (ISE) | Trinity ISE III with at least merit in each skill category. |
Additional Notes:
1. English language certificates must be awarded within two years prior to the start date of your DCU programme.
2. English Language requirements for individual programmes may be higher than published here. Please refer to the programme page for further details.
3. All scores on your English language proficiency test must be achieved in one sitting.
Faculty of Humanities and Social Science
In the case of all applications, evidence MUST be provided of competence in the English Language. The list below indicates the minimum standards in the English language, which should be met for entry to the postgraduate taught programmes in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Science.
*Please note the School of Communications programmes will have different requirements as outlined below.
| EXAMINATION | MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic |
Composite score of 6.5 or above, with no less than 6.0 in any one component. *School of Communications: Overall score of 6.5 or above and 6.5 in writing and speaking. Other section scores at 6.0 or above. *Scores must be achieved in one sitting. |
| TOEFL |
237 (computer-based) *School of Communications: All section scores above 21
*School of Communications: All section scores above 55 |
| TOEFL iBT |
Total Score of 92 with a score of 21 or above in all sections. Or Minimum score of 4.5, with no less than 4.5 in each section (Depending on Scoring system used at time the time test was taken). *School of Communications: 5 in speaking and writing, 4.5 in all other scores. TOEFL Home Edition is not accepted. |
| Cambridge Certificate |
English language examinations administered by the University of Cambridge: 180 on Cambridge English scale, with no less than 169 in each skill and evidence of use of english presenting one of the acceptable examinations below. (Overall score of 180 will change to 176+ for entry 2027) *School of Communications: Minimum score of 176 in speaking and writing. 169 in listening and reading. Acceptable Examinations: Proficiency Certificate, Grade C (i.e. CEFR Level C1 or C2). |
| English Test for Academic and Professional Purposes (ETAPP) | Minimum grade C1 or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2). |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) |
63 with a minimum of 59 in all components. *School of Communications: Minimum score of 63 in speaking and writing, 59 in listening and reading. |
| Duolingo | Duolingo will be accepted with a minimum overall score of 120 and a score of at least 110 in each of the Individual Subscores - Speaking, Writing, Reading and Listening. Please ensure the verification link is provided when submitting this evidence and you share your results with DCU. |
| For Entry 2027 | |
| International English Language Competency Assessment (IELCA) Academic |
Minimum score of 35 with a minimum of 33 in each band. *School of communication: Minimum 35 in speaking and writing, 33 in all other skills. |
| Language Cert (English for Speakers of other Languages - ESOL) |
B2 Communicator High Pass with no less than 33 in each skill taken with no more than 3 months between components. *School of communication: Minimum 35 in speaking and writing, 33 in all other skills. |
| Language Cert Academic |
70 overall with 65 in each skill *School of communication: Minimum 70 in speaking and writing, 65 in all other skills. |
| Oxford English Test |
Minimum score of 140 overall with a minimum score of 125 in each skill with no more than 3 months between sittings. *School of communication: Minimum 130 in speaking and writing, 125 in all other skills. |
| Trinity Integrated Skills in English (ISE) |
Trinity ISE III with at least merit in each skill category. *School of communication: Minimum distinction in speaking & writing, merit in all other skills. |
Additional Notes:
1. English language certificates must be awarded within two years prior to the start date of your DCU programme.
2. English Language requirements for individual programmes may be higher than published here. Please refer to the programme page for further details.
3. For the MA in Translation Studies and the MA in Translation Technologies:
- Non-native speakers should have a degree in English or advanced English skills (e.g. IELTS 7.0 points, Cambridge Proficiency Pass or TOEFL 600/250 points, Duolingo minimum score of 130 and a score of at least 120 in each subscore). Applicants may be called for interview, and their levels of English tested.
4. All scores on your English language proficiency test must be achieved in one sitting.
DCU Business School
In the case of all applications, evidence MUST be provided of competence in the English Language. The list below indicates the minimum standards in the English language, which should be met for entry to the postgraduate taught programmes in DCU Business School.
| Postgraduate Business Courses | |
| Examination | Minimum entry requirements |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic |
Composite score of 6.5 or above, with no less than 6.5 in writing and speaking. 6.0 or above in other components. *Scores must be achieved in one sitting. |
| TOEFL | 237 (computer-based) - Scores above 21 in all sections 580 (paper-based test) - Scores above 55 in all sections |
| TOEFL iBT |
Total Score of 92 with a score of 21 or above in all sections. Or Minimum overall score of 4.5, with a score of 5 in writing and speaking, 4.5 in all other scores. TOEFL Home Edition is not accepted. |
| Cambridge Certificate |
English language examinations administered by the University of Cambridge: 180 on Cambridge English scale (with no less than 176 in speaking and writing, 169 in all other modules) and evidence of use of english presenting one of the acceptable examinations below. (Overall score required is changing to 176+ for entry 2027) Acceptable Examinations: Proficiency Certificate, Grade C (i.e. CEFR Level C1 or C2). |
| English Test for Academic and Professional Purposes (ETAPP) | Minimum grade C1 or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2). |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) | 63 with a minimum of 63 in speaking and writing and 59 in all other components. |
| Duolingo | Duolingo will be accepted with a minimum overall score of 120 and a score of at least 110 in each of the Individual Subscores - Speaking, Writing, Reading and Listening. Please ensure the verification link is provided when submitting this evidence and you share your results with DCU. |
| For Entry 2027 | |
| International English Language Competency Assessment (IELCA) Academic | Minimum score of 35 with a minimum of 35 in speaking and writing, 33 in all other bands. |
| Language Cert (English for Speakers of other Languages - ESOL) | B2 Communicator High Pass with no less than 35 in speaking and writing and 33 in all other skills, with no more than 3 months between components. |
| Language Cert Academic | 70 overall with 70 in speaking and writing, 65 in all other skills. |
| Oxford English Test | Minimum score of 140 overall with a minimum score of 130 in speaking and writing, 125 in all other skills, with no more than 3 months between examinations. |
| Trinity Integrated Skills in English (ISE) | Trinity ISE III with a distinction in speaking & wriring and at least merit in other skills. |
Additional Notes:
1. English language certificate must be awarded within two years prior to the start date of your DCU programme.
2. Students with a composite IELTS 6.5 score or equivalent need a score of at least IELTS 6.5 in writing and speaking.
3. English Language requirements for individual programmes may be higher than published here. Please refer to the programme page for further details.
4. All scores on your English language proficiency test must be achieved in one sitting.
In the case of all applications, evidence MUST be provided of competence in the English Language. The list below indicates the minimum standards in the English language, which should be met for entry to the postgraduate taught programmes in the Faculty of Engineering and Computing.
| EXAMINATION | MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic |
Composite score of 6.5 or above, with no less than 6.0 in any one component. *Scores must be achieved in one sitting. |
| TOEFL | 237 (computer-based) 580 (paper-based test) |
| TOEFL iBT |
Total Score of 92 Or Minimum score of 4.5, with no less than 4.5 in each section (Depending on Scoring system used at time the time test was taken). TOEFL Home Edition is not accepted. |
| Cambridge Certificate |
English language examinations administered by the University of Cambridge: 180 on Cambridge English scale, with no less than 169 in each skill and evidence of use of english presenting one of the acceptable examinations below. (Overall score of 180 will change to 176+ for entry 2027) Acceptable Examinations: Proficiency Certificate, Grade C (i.e. CEFR Level C1 or C2). |
| English Test for Academic and Professional Purposes (ETAPP) | Minimum grade C1 or better (CEFR Level C1 or C2). |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) | 63 with a minimum of 59 in all components. |
| Duolingo | Duolingo will be accepted with a minimum overall score of 120 and a score of at least 110 in each of the Individual Subscores - Speaking, Writing, Reading and Listening. Please ensure the verification link is provided when submitting this evidence and you share your results with DCU. |
| For Entry 2027 | |
| International English Language Competency Assessment (IELCA) Academic | Minimum score of 35 with a minimum of 33 in each band. |
| Language Cert (English for Speakers of other Languages - ESOL) | B2 Communicator High Pass with no less than 33 in each skill taken with no more than 3 months between components. |
| Language Cert Academic | 70 overall with 65 in each skill |
| Oxford English Test | Minimum score of 140 overall with a minimum score of 125 in each skill with no more than 3 months between sittings. |
| Trinity Integrated Skills in English (ISE) | Trinity ISE III with at least merit in each skill category. |
Additional Notes:
1. English language certificates must be awarded within two years prior to the start date of your DCU programme.
2. English Language requirements for individual programmes may be higher than published here. Please refer to the programme page for further details.
3. All scores on your English language proficiency test must be achieved in one sitting.
Postgraduate Taught Programmes Note: In exceptional circumstances, results in examinations other than those published may be accepted as proof of competence in English language for postgraduate taught programmes.
This may include:
- Non-native speakers of English who in the past two years have completed their school education through the medium of English in a country where English is the official language. For example, applicants who have successfully achieved a 06/H7 in Leaving Certificate English, a Grade D in A Level English or an examination deemed as an equivalent by DCU.
- Applicants who have completed their undergraduate degree in the past two years, in a country where English is the official language.
- Applicants who have recently lived in a country where English is the official language for at least four years and been employed in a professional role that required a high level of written and verbal communication. Applicants will be required to provide specific documentation to evidence this e.g. residency documentation, employer statement.
Research Programmes Note: Faculty of Engineering & Computing and Faculty of Science & Health
In exceptional circumstances, results in examinations other than those published may be accepted as proof of competence in English language for research programmes in the Faculties noted above.
For further details about DCU English Language Requirements, please contact DCU Admissions.
Foundation Applicants
DCU International Academy (DCUIA), based in Dublin City University, offers English Language Courses which may be of interest to international applicants. For further information, please refer to their website at www.english.dcu.ie