Applications FAQ

You can apply for two programmes in your application, but you’ll need to order them in terms of your preference. The University processes your application sequentially based on the order of your preference.

No. Your first preference programme will be considered by the Course Director first and if you’re unsuccessful in your application, your second preference will be considered.

However, there is an exception to this rule with the MSc in Occupational Therapy and the MSc in Speech & Language Therapy. If applying for both the MSc in Occupational Therapy and the MSc in Speech and Language Therapy, it is recommended that you submit two first preference applications.

As both programmes are highly competitive, only first preference applications will be considered for offer.

Once you have submitted your application online, you’ll automatically receive an email from the University of Limerick confirming that your application has been received.

Please check that you’ve given us the right email address. Likewise, is the email definitely working?

If you changed your email address or are still having problems, please Contact US  or phone +353-61-234377. 

Autumn Programmes

The closing date for receipt of completed application for the majority of programmes commencing in Autumn 2026 is 13 August. Some programmes have earlier deadlines. Please refer to the webpage of your programme of choice for details on deadlines. 

Important: The application deadline for non-EU visa-required countries is 1 July 2026 at 12pm (UTC+1). Applications received after this date will not be considered. To check your country requirements, please refer to the Immigration Service Delivery Visa and Non-Visa Required Countries document at irishimmigration.ie. 

Spring Programmes

The closing date for receipt of completed application forms for Spring Start programmes is 5 January 2027. Some programmes have earlier deadlines.  Non-EU applicants requiring a visa to travel and study in Ireland should note that the deadline date is earlier for these programmes.

This depends on the applications deadline for your programme  of interest. Generally, EU Students can submit their applications up until mid-August. While Non-EU students who require a visa to live and study in Ireland will need to apply before July . Please note that some programmes have earlier deadlines. 

Late applications will be considered after the closing date for certain programmes, provided that there are places available on the programme. However, programmes that have scheduled interviews may not accept late applications.

There is an application fee of €50 (online). The fee covers two programme choices made in one submission. Further submissions will require another application fee. 

Applications will be processed once the application fee has been received. The application fee is non-refundable.

Yes!

However, if you’re offered a place on the programme, the offer will be on the condition that you meet the entry requirements for the programme. You may not enrol on a programme unless all entry requirements have been met before the commencement of the programme. 

Applications are assessed based on the information supplied. Please make sure you submit all requested information with the application form before the deadline.

Applications will then be assessed based on (a) entry requirements for the programme and (b) where applicable, professional experience. Some programmes require interviews and skills tests too.

Learning can happen outside of a classroom across a wide range of activities and at various times throughout the lifetime of an individual. 

RPL is a process to evaluate skills and knowledge a person has gained in their sector  outside of formal education and training. This informal learning can then gain formal recognition in the context of higher education. 

RPL is an option for everyone, regardless of background, however, the applicant’s eligibility is assessed and determined by the course director. Eligibility criteria can include work experience, industry certifications, prior education, and relevant skills. 

Assessment criteria is on a case-by-case basis. Below is the review process for RPL at UL: 

Create: Candidate identifies prior learning and presents evidence for RPL 

Evaluate: Assess or evaluates the case and validates the evidence of prior learning 

Support: RPL Group and Departments offer support depending on what the candidate needs. 

The online application process includes a document upload facility that allows applicants to scan and upload evidence of qualifications/awards, transcripts to date and evidence of English language competency certificates.

All scanning should be of original documentation and the electronic files created from the scanning process should not be interfered with in any way. You will need to submit:

• Your final award certificate.
• Transcripts for each year of your programmes.
• A supporting statement.
• English language certificate if English is not your first language.
• Certified English translation of your award/transcripts, if applicable.
• Birth certificate or passport.

When you apply online, you must upload your documents and submit them with your application form.

Original documentation will be requested if you are offered a place on the programme. As such, all offers are conditional on receipt of your original certificates/awards. Please do not post in your original qualifications/awards unless we ask you to do so.

Two referees are required: one academic and one from your place of employment.

If you have been out of college/university for a long period of time and the lecturers/staff in that college/university do not know you, then two work-related references will suffice.

You can save your application form and re-visit it at any stage. To view your application form, login through the portal and you’ll see your previous application.

You cannot download a preview of the application form.  However, you can view a copy of the Application Screens

Entry requirements are noted under the <<Entry Requirments>> tab on the programme webpage. Some programmes require a degree in a cognate discipline. Other programmes accept applicants who hold a minimum 2.2 honours bachelor’s degree.  

If English isn’t your first language, please indicate the score you achieved if you have completed an English language proficiency test. The table below outlines the English Language Requirements.

Acceptable English Language qualifications include the following:

Results in examinations other than those listed above may also be accepted as meeting our English language requirements.

Further to this, offer holders who do not meet the English language requirements above, can if they wish study pre-sessional English language classes at the UL Language Centre which is located on the UL Campus. For more information on preparatory language classes, please email language.centre@ul.ie

Learning is lifelong. Students apply to graduate and professional studies at all life stages. You are welcome to apply at any stage. Support services are available to students who are returning to study after an extended period. We are here to support your curiosity. 

Yes, they may apply. Recognition of prior learning may be applied in this case, The decision to move forward with such an application lies with the Course Director. 

You can find details about how to apply for PhD programmes here: How to Apply | University of Limerick (ul.ie)

Find out more information about admissions appeals.