Study in Ireland | 4+ exams for a promising future!

Study in Ireland | Why do you need to appear for exams?

Ireland has emerged as a highly sought-after destination for international students. Its picturesque landscapes and profound historical legacy offer a unique study experience. However, prospective students should note that specific eligibility criteria, particularly concerning language proficiency, must be fulfilled. The State mandates subject aptitude and language proficiency tests, primarily for graduate-level courses.

By dedicatedly preparing for these exams, you can increase the odds of getting into your desired university in Ireland. Therefore, you must prepare as early as possible for a successful academic journey.

5 exams to study in Ireland

If studying in Ireland has been your dream, you should consider the language requirements and the needed scores for your subject. The scores reflect your understanding and fluency of the language and your chosen subject. Also, the scores are essential for getting a scholarship, eligibility for admission to universities, and the visa application process.

Below we have mentioned a list of exams to study in Ireland for Indian Students. The list includes exams based on specific study programs and English language proficiency tests.

1. GMAT

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a popular examination among students pursuing a master’s in Management. The score on GMAT allows you to apply to international colleges and universities. This examination comprises four sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Assessment, and Integrated Reasoning.

The final score, ranging from 200 to 800, is calculated considering only the Quantitative Reasoning and Verbal Reasoning sections. GMAT is an essential requirement if you want to pursue a master-level study in Management at any Irish institute.

2. HPAT

HPAT is an acronym for Health Professions Admission Test. This exam is administered by ACER (Australian Council for Educational Research) and is conducted to get into any program associated with medicine.

It is a two-and-a-half-hour examination, except at the University of Limerick. Here, the candidates applying to MSc Occupational Therapy and MSc Speech and Language Therapy have to sit for a one-hour written English component.

3. OET

Applicants looking to enrol in healthcare-related programs must take the OET (Occupational English Test). This exam showcases that the candidate possesses the required English communication skills for the profession. It is generally taken for careers in the following fields –

• Pharmacy
• Radiography
• Nursing
• Optometry
• Speech Pathology
• Dentistry
• Veterinary Science
• Physiotherapy

4. GAMSAT

GAMSAT (Graduate Medical School Admission Test) is another test administered by ACER. This test is usually given to get into any graduate-entry medicine and veterinary medicine in the following schools in Ireland –

1. University of Limerick
2. RCSI University of Medicine & Health Sciences
3. University College Dublin
4. University College Cork

According to study in Ireland consultants, GAMSAT is slightly more holistic as compared to HPAT. It comprises three sections: Written Communication, Reasoning in Biological and Physical Sciences, and Reasoning in Humanities and Social Sciences. It can be expensive for many students wanting to study overseas.

4. English language tests

English is the primary language in Ireland, and every student is required to take an English language proficiency test. Here are some of the famous language tests that you can take to study in Ireland –

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): It is a very well-known exam among students planning to study in international educational institutes. The test comprises four sections emphasizing on four core abilities – Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.

You’ll be given a band score for each section and also an overall band score. The scores are determined on a scale of 1 to 9. You may obtain whole bands ( 5.0, 6.0, 7.0) or half bands (5.5, 6.5, 7.5) in each section of the test.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): It evaluates the capability of overseas students to use and understand North American English. ETS (Educational Testing Service) creates and administers this language proficiency test.

They prepare questions, administer the exam, and deliver the test results to all examinees. In most Irish colleges, the minimum TOEFL score mandatory is 90 (Internet-based) or 570 (paper-based).

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): PTE might not be as popular as IELTS and TOEFL. But, it is a lot more convenient compared to the two. This is because it is computer-based and delivers results to applicants in less than 24 hours after the test. The PTE exam comprises three sections: Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening.

• GCE O-Level English Language (General Certificate of Education): The GCE O-level English language is another exam that the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) students can take after completing their A-level studies.

Students from different educational boards might also take these examinations. But, it is suggested you go for more recognized exams like TOEFL or IELTS.

Top universities in Ireland

Following is a list of the top-ranking universities to study in Ireland that international students can apply to:

1. National University of Ireland, Galway
2. Maynooth University
3. University College Dublin
4. Trinity College Dublin
5. University College Cork

Most of these Irish universities demand a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 with no band lower than 6.0.

Key takeaways

• When planning to immigrate and study in Ireland, you must have a good knowledge of the examinations mandatory for admission.
• The exams mentioned above help assess your English language proficiency, knowledge related to the chosen subject or field, and academic aptitude.
• Students who want to enroll in healthcare-related programs can take the OET exam.
• IELTS and TOEFL   are popular  English language proficiency tests among international students.
• GAMSAT is slightly more holistic as compared to HPAT.
• PTE is a more convenient language test as it is completely computer-based and delivers results in just 24 hours.

Do you need help choosing the right exam to study in Ireland? Reach out to us or drop a comment below, our counselors would be happy to assist you!

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FAQs

Q1. Can international students study in Ireland without IELTS?

Answer- The IELTS test isn’t compulsory for students looking to study in Ireland. You may find colleges and universities accepting students without an IELTS score.

Q2. What is the eligibility to study in Ireland?

Answer- If you are an overseas student who wants to study in Ireland, you must score at least 60% on the qualifying exam and be at least 18 years old to apply for an undergraduate program.

Q3. Is it possible to study at any Irish university with 50% marks?

Answer- International students with 50% marks can get admission into Ireland’s Diploma and Foundation courses.