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
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
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CAP)
Overall score of 180 with a minimum of 169 in all components.
Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE)
Overall score of 180 with a minimum of 169 in all components.
English Test for Academic and Professional Purposes (ETAPP)
C1
Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic)
63 (with a minimum of 59 in all components)
Duolingo
Duolingo will be accepted with a minimum score of 120 and a score of at least 110 in each subscore. Please ensure the verification link is provided when submitting this evidence and you share your results with DCU.
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.