Student vetting FAQs
Common questions
How do I know if my course needs vetting?
Check the list of courses with vetting requirements.
Why do I need to be vetted?
At UL, students who work with children and/or vulnerable adults during their course (for example on placement, internships, or projects) must be vetted.
This is required by Irish law and UL’s own policies to make sure everyone is safe and protected.
You can find the full Student Vetting Policy on the UL Policy Hub.
Does UL have an official vetting policy?
Yes, UL has a Student Vetting Policy available on the UL Policy Hub.
How does the vetting process work?
The steps of the vetting process are explained on our student vetting webpage.
Who organises student vetting at UL?
The UL Complaints, Discipline & Vetting (CDV) Unit manages all student vetting through the National Vetting Bureau (NVB).
I’ve been vetted elsewhere, do I need to be vetted again at UL?
Yes, vetting is not transferrable between organisations, so you’ll need to go through UL’s vetting process.
Can I arrange vetting myself?
No. All vetting must go through the UL CDV Unit.
How long does the vetting process take?
It usually takes 3-6 weeks. If you’re an international student or have lived outside Ireland for more than 6 months since turning 16, it can take 6-8 weeks, so apply early!
Where can I get the vetting forms?
All forms and guides are on the UL Student Vetting webpage.
Help! I’m stuck filling out the online vetting form.
You can use the NVB eVetting User Guide to help you.
I made a mistake on the form, what do I do?
Stop completing the form and contact the CDV Unit to have your form reissued.
I can’t remember all my previous addresses.
That’s okay—include as much information as you can (area, town, country).
Do I need to physically sign any forms?
Yes, the NVB1 Vetting Invitation form must have your original handwritten signature (no typed signatures).
How do I upload documents for the Photographic Identity Form?
Take clear photos or scans of your ID and proof of address, save them to your computer/phone, and upload them to the form.
Where do I hand in my completed vetting forms?
Submit your forms in person during Orientation or at the CDV Unit (Room A1084). Bring your original documents with you.
Can I send the forms by email or post?
No. You must submit them in person so your identity can be verified.
Do I need to declare old or minor offences?
Yes, you must declare all convictions, no matter how minor or how long ago.
What counts as a criminal record?
A criminal record includes any convictions (even traffic offences) or any pending charges inside or outside of Ireland.
I can’t remember the exact date of a conviction.
Just give your best estimate of the month and year.
What do I need for my placement?
Your Course Director will give you the necessary confirmation forms before placement. Forms can be found on the UL Student Vetting website.
How long does vetting last?
Vetting lasts for your entire course (usually four years for undergrad, two years for postgrad). You might be re-vetted if you take a break from your studies or if required during your course.
Information for international students
Do international students need to be vetted?
Yes. You also need to provide Police Clearance Certificates from every country where you lived for six + months since turning 16.
What about non-EU international students?
In addition to vetting and police certificates, non-EU students must submit a Sworn Affidavit signed by a Solicitor/Commissioner of Oaths once in Ireland.
Can I start vetting before I arrive in Ireland?
Yes. You can post your documents to the CDV Unit and do an online ID check (Skype/Teams). But you’ll still need to validate your ID in person after you arrive.
I’m an EU student and have lived outside Ireland—what do I do?
You must get a Police Clearance Certificate from each country you lived in for more than six months.
What is a Police Clearance Certificate?
It’s an official document from the police confirming if you have any criminal records in that country.
How do I get a Police Clearance Certificate?
This website has helpful links.
Or contact the embassy of the country you lived in.
My police documents are not in English—what now?
You need to get them translated by a professional translator and submit both the original and the translation.
I can’t get a Police Clearance Certificate—what should I do?
Contact the CDV Unit. You may need to provide proof (e.g., from the authorities) or submit a Sworn Affidavit if you can’t get a certificate.
I was travelling with no fixed address—what do I do?
Contact the CDV Unit. You may be able to provide a Sworn Affidavit to cover this period.
