Intakes in Ireland for international students

Check out the popular intakes in Ireland for Nepalese students

Studying in Ireland is a popular choice for students from around the world, including those who come to study in Ireland from Nepal. They are drawn to Ireland for its high-quality education in a friendly and lively environment. Ireland's education system is respected worldwide, and its universities and colleges offer a wide variety of courses in different subjects.

In Ireland, the academic year is divided into two main parts: one starting in September (Fall) and the other in February (Spring) . Each part has its own advantages, and students can choose the one that suits them best. This way, Ireland welcomes students from all over the world, giving them the chance to follow their academic dreams and get a great education. Explore the popular intakes in Ireland .

Intakes in Ireland for international students

In Ireland, you'll find various intakes, each tailored to the level of education and the institution's program. Here's an overview of the typical intakes:

Autumn intake in Ireland:

This serves as the primary intake for many undergraduate and postgraduate programs and usually commences in September or October, varying by institution and program.

Spring intake in Ireland:

For certain postgraduate courses, some institutions provide a second intake starting in January or February. This intake is typically smaller in scale compared to the autumn intake.

It's crucial to be aware that the exact intakes and application deadlines can differ based on the institution and program. Therefore, students should regularly visit the official websites of the institutions they're considering to verify intake dates and application criteria. Furthermore, international students should consider that visa processing times can influence their eligibility to begin their studies in specific intakes.

Which intake to opt for?

The choice of intake in Ireland for international students depends on various factors, including your program of interest, personal preferences, and circumstances. Here's a general overview to help you decide:

  1. Autumn intake (September/October): This is the primary intake for most undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

    • Pros:

      • Larger selection of courses and programs

      • Easier to secure accommodations

      • Opportunity to experience the Irish culture during a more active time of the year

    • Cons:

      • Higher competition for admission

      • Potentially larger class sizes

  2. Spring intake (January/February): Typically for postgraduate programs, although some institutions offer a limited number of undergraduate courses

    • Pros:

      • Smaller applicant pool, which may increase your chances of admission.

      • Opportunity to start studies without a long wait

    • Cons:

      • Limited program choices

      • May need to secure accommodations during a less popular time

Factors to Consider:

  • Program availability: Check if your desired program is available in both intakes or specific to one.

  • Application deadlines: Be aware of application deadlines, as they can vary among institutions and programs.

  • Visa processing: Consider visa processing times for your home country, as obtaining a student visa may impact your ability to start your studies in a specific intake.

  • Personal preferences: Think about your personal preferences, such as when you'd like to start your studies and whether you're comfortable with a larger or smaller intake.

Ultimately, the choice of intake should align with your academic and personal goals. Be sure to thoroughly research the programs and institutions you're interested in and contact their admissions offices for guidance on intake selection.

If you want to know more about the intakes for Ireland , get in touch with our international education experts at IDP. They will help you choose the right intake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


Ques 1: How many intakes does Ireland have?

Ans: In Irish universities , there are two main intakes. The Autumn Intake kicks off in early September and runs through December, while the Spring Intake starts in late January and extends until May.

Ques 2: How many intakes are there in Ireland for Masters?

Ans: The timing of intakes for master's and bachelor's programs can differ based on the specific university and the chosen program.

Ques 3: What is the difference between September intake and January intake in Ireland?

The main difference between the September and January intakes in Ireland is the timing and program availability. September is the primary intake, offering a wide range of programs but with more competition. January is a secondary intake, mainly for postgraduate programs, with a smaller program selection and potentially higher admission chances.

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