How to Apply

Interested in applying to NCI as an international student? Read this page for advice and guidelines on applying, including key cut-off dates.

We're here to help you with your application

Research and choose your programme

You will find details on courses available to international students located here. In addition, you can visit our downloads section and read our international brochure. Make sure to thoroughly review the programmes you are interested in, understand the modules and decide on your first preference programme.

Check entry requirements

You should check entry requirements in three areas: 

1. Country requirement: We accept a wide range of qualifications from universities around the world. For guidance on our international requirements visit your country page.
2. Programme requirement: Entry requirements vary depending on the course and are detailed in our international brochure and on individual course pages.
3. English requirement: English language requirements are available on our English language requirements page.

Check deadlines

Applicants from some countries may have early deadlines due to a range of factors, most notably visa processing times. Please contact international@ncirl.ie or one of our approved agents for deadlines for your country.

Applications for September 2025 open on 15th November 2024.

It is important to remember that if you are applying close to a deadline, we usually only accept full and complete applications which demonstrate that you have met both the academic and English language requirements of the course. Also, you should ensure that you have researched the visa application timelines for your country (if applicable) to ensure that you have sufficient time to apply for your visa.

Submit an application

It is preferred if you submit your application through one of our trusted agents. You can find an agent near you by searching our country pages. If you wish to apply without an agent you can do so by using the "Apply Now" button on your chosen programme. Please note you can only be assessed for one programme at a time.

For all applications, we require the following:

1. Official transcripts of all study you have completed so far in both original language and English translation.
2. Official graduation certificate of recent study (if you have completed your study) in both original language and English translation.
3. English language certificate (if available – if not this can be uploaded at a later date) 
4. CV/Resume
5. Passport (if you are currently residing in Ireland we also require a copy of your immigration card)

For some programmes you will require the following: 

• A personal statement (required for all bachelor degree programmes, MSc in Fintech and the MSc in AI for Business)

Each application is reviewed individually by our admissions team and is come cases by the Course Director. You may be required to submit additional information to them.

Apply for scholarships

Each student is automatically assessed for a range of scholarships during the application assessment. Your initial scholarship will be stated in your offer letter should you receive one. For high performing students, we also offer a small number of larger scholarships. Students already in receipt of an existing scholarship and who have strong academic results, may choose to apply for one of our other scholarships. Details of all scholarships and bursaries can be found in our Fees and Funding section. 

Do you have questions about applying to NCI?

We have developed an International Student FAQ page with questions we receive from applicants about what courses you can study, how to apply, language requirements, and more. If you require further assistance, don't hesitate to get in touch with international@ncirl.ie.