English Language Requirements for Non-Native Speakers of English | Registry

English language requirements for non-native speakers of English

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 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in DCU. 

 

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 matriculation examination or by achieving the minimum standard (there may be higher levels for matriculation and/or particular programmes in individual institutions) in a recognised English language test, as specified below (note applicants are assessed on the results of a single sitting only):

The list below indicates the minimum standards in the English language, which should be met for entry to undergraduate programmes in DCU. 

EXAMINATION Level Required
Irish Leaving Certificate English O6/H7
GCE A-Level English Language Grade D
GSCE  Grade C 
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. 

Scores on your English language proficiency test must be achieved in one sitting. 

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.

Post Graduate

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of equivalent competence in English Language in a recognised English language test, as specified below.

Please note: 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.

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