Application Deadlines

Stay on track with your Master's application by monitoring university deadlines, scholarship opportunities, and important dates.

Application Windows Overview

Irish universities typically organize their Master's applications into several rounds or windows. Applying in earlier rounds generally provides advantages such as better program availability, scholarship opportunities, and more time for visa processing.

Round 1 (Early Application)

September - November

Benefits:

  • Priority consideration for competitive programs
  • Early scholarship consideration
  • More time to prepare for visa and accommodation
  • Higher acceptance rates for many programs

Round 2 (Main Application)

January - March

Benefits:

  • Standard application period for most programs
  • Some scholarship opportunities still available
  • Good balance of availability and preparation time
  • Most international students apply during this period

Round 3 (Late Application)

April - June

Benefits:

  • Limited to programs with available capacity
  • Reduced scholarship opportunities
  • Shorter time for visa processing and preparation
  • Some programs may already be closed

Important Note

These are general application windows. Each university and program may have specific deadlines that differ from these general periods. Always check the official university websites for the most up-to-date deadline information for your specific programs of interest.

University-Specific Deadlines

Below are the application deadlines for major Irish universities for the current academic year. These deadlines are subject to change, and some popular programs may close earlier once capacity is reached. We recommend checking university websites for the most current information.

Trinity College Dublin (TCD)

Visit Website
RoundDeadlineStatus
Round 1October 31Closed
Round 2March 31Open
Round 3June 30Upcoming
Note: Popular programs may close earlier once capacity is reached. International students are strongly advised to apply in Round 1 or early in Round 2.

University College Dublin (UCD)

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RoundDeadlineStatus
PriorityNovember 30Closed
StandardMay 31Open
LateJuly 31Upcoming
Note: UCD uses rolling admissions for many programs. Applications remain open until programs are filled. Business, Law, and Computer Science programs tend to fill quickly.

University College Cork (UCC)

Visit Website
RoundDeadlineStatus
EU StudentsJune 1Open
Non-EU StudentsApril 15Open
Specific ProgramsVariousCheck program page
Note: Some specific programs (particularly in Medicine, Dentistry, and Clinical Therapies) have earlier deadlines. Check individual program pages for details.

National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG)

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RoundDeadlineStatus
Round 1February 1Closed
Round 2May 1Open
Round 3July 1Upcoming
Note: For some programs with limited places, applications may close early. All applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

University of Limerick (UL)

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RoundDeadlineStatus
Non-EU StudentsApril 1Open
EU StudentsJune 1Open
Note: The University of Limerick has different deadlines for EU and non-EU applicants. Some specialist programs may have earlier deadlines.

Dublin City University (DCU)

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RoundDeadlineStatus
PriorityJanuary 31Closed
StandardApril 30Open
FinalJune 30Upcoming
Note: Business and STEM programs are highly competitive and often fill before final deadlines. Early application is strongly recommended.

Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin)

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RoundDeadlineStatus
InternationalMay 31Open
EUJune 30Open
Note: TU Dublin accepts applications until all places are filled. Popular programs in computing, engineering, and business may close early.

Maynooth University

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RoundDeadlineStatus
Non-EU StudentsMay 15Open
EU StudentsJune 30Open
Note: Taught Master's programs typically follow these deadlines, but research programs may have more flexibility. Check individual program pages.

Scholarship Deadlines

Scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of your studies in Ireland. However, most scholarship opportunities have application deadlines that are earlier than program admission deadlines. Missing these deadlines can mean missing out on potential funding opportunities.

Government Scholarships

ScholarshipDeadlineStatus
Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships

Covers tuition fees and living expenses (€10,000)

March 29Open
Science Foundation Ireland Scholarship

For STEM disciplines with research component

February 15Closed
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Degree

Full scholarship for Joint European programs

February 23Closed

University-Specific Scholarships

UniversityScholarshipDeadlineStatus
TCD
Global Excellence Scholarship

Up to €10,000 fee reduction

April 30Open
UCD
Global Graduate Scholarship

25% tuition fee reduction

May 31Open
NUIG
International Excellence Scholarship

50% tuition fee reduction

March 31Closed
DCU
International Student Scholarship

€2,000 - €5,000 fee reduction

April 30Open

Scholarship Application Tips:

  • Apply early as scholarship funding is often limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Carefully review eligibility criteria as some scholarships are restricted to specific countries, disciplines, or academic backgrounds.
  • Prepare a standout personal statement focusing on your academic achievements, leadership experiences, and future goals.
  • Some universities automatically consider you for scholarships when you apply to their programs, while others require separate applications.

Important Dates & Pre-Arrival Timeline

Beyond application and scholarship deadlines, there are several other important dates to keep in mind as you prepare for your studies in Ireland. The timeline below outlines key milestones in the process from application to arrival.

1

January-March

Submit applications for most programs

  • Research programs and universities
  • Prepare application materials
  • Apply for scholarships
2

April-May

Admission decisions and acceptance

  • Receive admission decisions
  • Accept offer and pay deposit
  • Start visa application if applicable
3

June-July

Pre-departure preparations

  • Secure accommodation
  • Complete visa process
  • Book flights
4

August-September

Arrival and orientation

  • Attend orientation week
  • Register with immigration (GNIB)
  • Begin classes

Key Dates to Remember

Here are the key application dates for the academic year:

  • September-NovemberFirst round applications for most universities
  • January-MarchSecond round applications (subject to availability)
  • April-JuneLate applications (limited programs)
  • FebruaryMain scholarship application deadlines
  • July-AugustPre-arrival procedures
  • SeptemberStart of academic year (most programs)
  • JanuaryStart of spring semester programs

Related Resources

View University Websites

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