Dublin, Ireland

Direct Enrollment - Dublin City University

Study Abroad
Program Options:
Direct Enrollment
Length:
Fall, Spring, Academic Year

At a Glance

Housing:

Apartment

Credits:

15 per Semester

Language of Instruction:

English

Language Prerequisites:

None

Visa Required:

Maybe

About the Program

Dublin City University’s (DCU) main objective is to provide a lively educational and social environment, while encouraging a holistic approach to student development. You have the opportunity to live in campus housing and take advantage of a broad range of academic options.

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Take Classes Like a Local

Take advantage of a broad range of rigorous academic options.

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Build a Community

Live on-campus and participate in the vibrant social life.

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Explore the Neighborhoods

Walk along the River Liffey and meander through the city.

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Dublin Will Be Your Classroom

Take in an Irish play at The Abbey Theatre and explore Dublin Castle.

2025 Fall

Program Dates:

Late August - Late December

Application Deadline:

Program Advisor

Macey Schondel headshot

Macey Schondel

Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!

📱 800.995.2300 ✉️ study@IESabroad.org

About the Destination

a street in Temple Bar lined with green and orange flags

Why Dublin?

You won’t need the luck of the Irish to have an unforgettable study abroad experience in Dublin. By directly enrolling in a local university, you have the opportunity to become a part of Dublin’s large student community (more than half of the city is under 25 years old).

Learn More About Dublin

Get to Know Your New City

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Take a Day Trip

Explore and hike along the coast just a short train ride from the city.

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Catch a Live Performance

Venture to the theatre, or enjoy live music at your local pub.

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Taste the Local Food

Sink your teeth into the various fresh and delicious foods of Dublin.

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Visit the Book of Kells

See this lavishly illuminated manuscript in the Library of Trinity College.

The Student Experience

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Housing

A clean apartment kitchen and living space, with sleek counters, dark cabinets, and modern appliances.
  • Apartment

Apartment

You live in student apartments in a residence hall near campus with local and international students. The apartment suites are fully furnished and have fully equipped kitchens (no meals are included). You have your own bedroom and bathroom and share the unit with up to three roommates, which may be of mixed gender. Each unit offers an internet connection in all bedroom and common areas.

Academics

Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences. That is why we partnered with Dublin City University (DCU). 

You must meet the requisite minimum number of credits as stipulated for DCU. 

You also have to meet DCU’s specific requirements, including the requisite minimum GPA (3.0 on a 4.0 scale), relevant prerequisites for your study track, and junior or senior standing. You should select courses in your major or minor and be prepared to provide documentation of relevant prior coursework. 

Partner Institution

Students stand on Dublin City University's giant letter display. The letters are "DCU."
  • Dublin City University

Dublin City University

Founded in 1980, Dublin City University (DCU) has made its mark as a leader in Ireland’s educational system. It hosts approximately 10,000 students and boasts a number of research centers that collaborate with domestic and international universities. The Helix, a world-class performing arts center, is based on campus. 

Located in north Dublin, DCU occupies an expansive 85-acre campus with state-of-the-art facilities. Because it is served by several bus routes between north and south Dublin, the campus is very accessible.

Visit Website

Courses

DCU courses are generally worth 2.5 IES Abroad credits each, and you take at least 15 credits. Further information about course content and availability is provided on the University’s website.

Courses are available within the following departments:

  • DCU Business School (BSSAO)
  • Faculty of Engineering & Computing (ECSAO)
  • Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences (HMSAO)
  • Faculty of Science & Health (SHSAO)

Unfortunately, lab courses are not available to visiting students, including IES Abroad students. 

PRO-TIP

Apply for your passport today!

Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.

Learn More
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Field Trips

Even though your adventure starts in Dublin, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).

NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability. 

Program Cost

Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your current college or university to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your school's policies, and other factors.

Fall 2024

Tuition
$
14,128
Housing
$
5,160
Insurance
$
245
Total
$
19,533

Academic Year 2024

Tuition
$
25,415
Housing
$
11,425
Insurance
$
490
Total
$
37,330

Spring 2025

Tuition
$
14,559
Housing
$
5,315
Insurance
$
245
Total
$
20,119

2025 Fall

Tuition
-
Housing
-
Insurance
-
Total
Pending

Use Our Budget Worksheet to Calculate Your Costs

See the Worksheet
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

$7 Million in Scholarships & Aid

We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.

Learn More
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About the IES Abroad Dublin Center

The Center is where our highly trained local staff provide on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad. 

The IES Abroad Dublin Center is a fully renovated red-brick Victorian building that used to serve as a post office. Located just south of Dublin’s city Center, our building is walking distance from Dublin Castle, St. Stephen’s Green, and Trinity College Dublin. The Center is your study abroad hub.  

 

Orientation

Start at Home
Our Comprehensive Orientation & Re-Entry Experience (CORE™) begins at home with our virtual orientation to meet the IES Abroad Center staff, fellow students, and the city.
Arrive in Dublin
Orientation continues when you arrive onsite with activities focusing on adjusting to Dublin. Detailed information about other important topics is also covered.
Get to Know the City
Beyond orientation sessions, you will have opportunities to explore Dublin and Ireland before classes start to help you feel at home in your new environment.
Prepare to Learn
Feel prepared to begin classes with practical lessons, activities designed to help you learn your way around the area, and support from our dedicated student staff.
Settle In
Orientation continues throughout the semester with field trips allowing you to both further sample elements of Irish culture and get to know the other students.

Health & Safety

With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.

Support You Can Expect to Receive on Our Programs

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CISI International Health Insurance

In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.

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24/7 Emergency Support

Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.

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Mandatory Cell Phone Policy

Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.

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Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.

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TripTracker System

Allowing you to share independent travel plans.

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Crisis Drills

So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.

Program Dates

Academic Year 2023

Program Dates:

Early September - Mid May

Application Deadline:

Fall 2024

Program Dates:

August 28 - December 22

Application Deadline:

Academic Year 2024

Program Dates:

Mid September - Early May

Application Deadline:

Spring 2025

Program Dates:

January 07 - May 07

Application Deadline:

2025 Fall

Program Dates:

Late August - Late December

Application Deadline:

Requirements

  • Eligibility Requirements
  • Application Requirements
  • Passport & Visa Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

  • 18 years of age 
  • In good standing at your home school 
  • 3.0 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale 

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact a Previous Student

Student Ambassadors

No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.

Contact an Ambassador
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The Student Experience

How will study abroad redefine your world? We can’t wait to find out.

Apply Now
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