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5 things admissions officers at Trinity College Dublin look for in an application

By Lily Martin• Last updated: Feb 8, 2024
5 things admissions officers at Trinity College Dublin look for in an application
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Considering studying in Ireland? If so, it’s likely that Trinity College Dublin has caught your eye as one of the most popular destinations for international students.

With its vast array of courses, incredible facilities and stunning historical campus, the university has an impressive amount to offer. But with real competition for places, what is it that admissions officers are looking for in prospective students’ applications.

I caught up with Trinity College Dublin to find out what they’re on the lookout for in their applicants at the moment. Here’s the top five things to keep in mind.

1. English Language proficiency is essential

English Language testing forms an important part of the application process for international students. It’s important that the university knows that you will be comfortable and confident studying and being assessed in a different language.

Standardised English Language Proficiency Tests, either IELTS or TOEFL, and two academic letters of recognition are mandatory for both undergraduate and postgraduate applications at Trinity.

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2. Your personal statement is important

Your personal statement is an integral part of your application as it adds character to your academic qualifications. 

Trinity College Dublin assesses students’ motivation through the statement to make sure they have put in the required level of research to make an informed decision when applying.

Brushing up on your knowledge of the subject, on the things that interest and fascinate you about the course you’re applying for and the academics you’d most like to learn from are great places to start with this. 
Taking the time to make sure your personal statement is perfect is an important part of the process too.

3. Take into account additional assessment criteria

Some courses will require you to complete and excel in additional assessments, especially at postgraduate level.

At Trinity, this can include the GMAT, an online programming test for some MSc programmes and interviews either by video or phone. 

Preparing for these additional assessments are an integral part of your application, and are used to determine your suitability for the programme.

4. You must meet the minimum requirements for admission

Unfortunately this is one of the most important parts of applying at a competitive university or for an in-demand course. Meeting the specific requirements for the programme of your choice is an essential part of your application.

Working hard and securing those grades, to match your passion for your course, is an important stepping stone to studying at Trinity College Dublin.

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5. Undergraduate module grades are important for postgraduate applicants

Postgraduate applications are reviewed far more rigorously due to the competition for places. The standing of your undergraduate institution is taken into account when applying, using a range of rankings both domestically and internationally.

But performance in individual modules that are relevant to the programme you’re applying to are considered too. Your bachelor degree also needs to be equivalent to a 2:1 in Ireland.

Interested in studying abroad? Find out more about Dublin as a study abroad destination, and explore Trinity College Dublin’s courses on our website.

Related tags:
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international students abroad
applying to university
trinity college dublin personal statement
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