Bachelor of Arts in Music Entry requirements
Key information
Minimum grades
Applicants are required to hold at the time of enrolment the established Leaving Certificate (or an approved equivalent) with a minimum of six subjects which must include: Two H5 (Higher level) grades and Four O6 (Ordinary level) grades or four H7 (Higher Level) grades. Subjects must include Mathematics, Irish or another language, and English
Note: Grade F6 in Foundation Mathematics also satisfies the minimum entry requirements. Foundation Maths is not reckonable for scoring purposes.
Additional considerations
Auditions will take place in April 2027.
A later audition date will be set for those who select the programme using the CAO change of mind function.
Applicants must pass an interview/audition. The audition takes the form of a 10-minute solo performance and a 10-minute interview.
Applicants are encouraged to choose to perform pieces that best represent their musical abilities and interests. Applicants will also be asked to speak about their musical interests and how the BA Music will serve their musical development
BA Music Audition Process for Entry
All applicants who apply through the CAO will be called for audition that will be conducted by either submitting online or a face-to-face process.
In-person applicants will play/sing two pieces of your own choosing in any style or genre.
Online applicants will be invited to submit a video recording of their performance of two songs and attend a remote interview.
After your audition, the Admissions Department of the University will contact you to let you know the outcome.
Audition Points Framework
Applicants can be awarded a maximum of 200 audition points.
Key areas to be assessed at BA Music audition:
Proficiency on Instrument
Through the performance of two contrasting pieces at audition, applicants will demonstrate a technical command of their chosen instrument/s.
Select pieces that you feel comfortable with and are within your technical abilities.
The panel will listen for fundamental musical elements such as playing in tune and in time.
Musicality
The panel will asses how you use musical expression through dynamics, use of timbre or expression through the voice or your instrument.
Performance Quality
The panel will asses the impact of the performance, your confidence on stage, presence and choice of pieces to demonstrate diversity.
Creativity and Motivation
The panel will assess how your employ creative or unique approaches to the material you perform.
Do you use any melodic or rhythmic improvisation?
Can you arrange a composed piece in a new or novel way.
Have you composed your own song or piece especially for the audition?
What are your creative goals and ideals?
All students must undergo a Garda Vetting process.
Mature Students
We welcome applications from mature students. Mature applicants must apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO) by 1 February.
Application information for mature student applicants
QQI Entry
Certain QQI Awards are acceptable in fulfilling admission requirements for this programme. Go to the UL Admissions QQI page for a full list of modules.
Alternative Entry Pathway
Students who do not enter directly through the CAO may wish to consider the Certificate in Music and Dance (NFQ Level 6). Successful completion of this one-year programme may provide a pathway to Year 2 of Irish World Academy BA programmes, subject to academic achievement, performance standards and available places.
