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Trinity College Dublin

Why choose Trinity College Dublin?

It takes independent thinkers to succeed in today’s world - and it takes a pioneering, creative and agile country to produce them. That country is Ireland.

We recognise your ambition to have the best education – one that will set you out on the road to a great career. Ireland is globally connected, socially and economically progressive, deeply welcoming and steeped in rich heritage and culture. But equally important, our national culture of being pioneering, creative and agile will help you learn the crucial life skills of resilience, self-reliance and self-confidence.

Ireland is headquarters to all the world’s greatest tech and pharma companies. Our culture of creativity and problem-solving has made us stand out on the global stage, and the graduates we produce each year are highly sought after in diverse industries and in markets worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is Trinity College Dublin known for?

    Trinity College Dublin is one of Ireland's most prestigious and historic universities. Academically, the college is particularly acclaimed in the fields of Law, Literature, and Humanities.

  • Is Trinity College Dublin hard to get into?

    Admission to TCD is highly competitive, and based exclusively on academic merit. Students must meet the university's minimal matriculation qualifications in English, Mathematics and a second language. All applicants are required to submit the following:

    • Your transcripts
    • Proof of English proficiency (typically IELTS or TOEFL scores)
    • 2 letters of recommendation
    • A copy of your passport

    Undergraduate requirements:

    • Two academic references
    • Final high school exam results, or Predicted Scores provided by your school
    • A 500-word statement of purpose

    Postgraduate requirements:

    • Two academic references
    • Certified academic transcript(s)
    • Certified degree certificate(s)
    • Any other qualifications that may be required (such as GMAT for Business Master’s programmes).
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  • Is Trinity College Dublin public or private?

    While Trinity College was originally a public-private partnership, a change of law in 1997 made TCD -- like all Irish universities -- a public university.

  • How does Trinity College Dublin rank?

    Trinity College Dublin is the top-ranked university in Ireland. TCD ranks ranked #101 in the QS Global World Rankings 2021, and 155th using the Times Higher Education World University Ranking methodology.

Reviews

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Greg
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

MSc Digital Marketing Strategy

This is probably the best Master's course for Digital Marketing Strategy in the world and I'll tell you why.

In the business world, companies don't really care about your degree. They care about your work experience, and this course gives you the experience you need to get a job. You will do real client work with real client money, and you'll be driving real-world results. So when you go to apply for a job, you can say you already have experience. That is much better than reading textbooks and taking exams!

Also, digital marketing is constantly evolving, so you need to learn from people who are working in the field right now. All of TCD's professors are active in the field, and the guest lecturers will come from industry leaders like Hubspot, Google, LinkedIn etc.

If you want to work in tech, Dublin is probably the biggest tech scene in Europe right now. Many colleagues went to work at the big tech companies like Salesforce, Oracle, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google. Many others went to work in digital agencies around the world.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
You get out what you put into the course. If you sit back and do the bare minimum, you probably won't learn that much. But if you do extra studying on your free time, do good work for your clients, and use TCD's network to your advantage, you will get a ton from this course. I wouldn't be where I am without my experience at TCD. If I had to choose again, I'd still choose this course over an old-fashioned MS in Marketing. In my opinion, real-world experience is always better than reading textbooks and taking exams.
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Michelle
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great Business School

Trinity College Dublin is located right in the heart of a vibrant European capital city. Even better, the Business School is housed in a new, zero-carbon building on the centuries-old campus (TCD was founded in 1592!)
All of this is within 10 minutes walk of what’s become known as Dublin’s “Silicon Docks”, the European headquarters for Google, Facebook, LinkedIn and a whole host of other tech giants.
Really, this unique, very-old-meets-very-new combination makes TCD a fantastic place to study for a postgraduate business degree.

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Maureen
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A great place to do a PhD

A rich academic environment in the nicest country. I got to work with world-leading researchers on exciting questions. Like any PhD, it was a lot of hard work and required a 4 year time commitment. Irish PhD programs don't have as many requirements for coursework as their American counterparts, which can be really nice. Most science PhDs are expected to either secure their own funding though grants or to self-fund their work. TCD provides a great jumping point to other European institutions and to UK institutions as well.

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Liz
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Masters in Marketing from Trinity College Dublin

My year studying at Trinity College Dublin in the MSc for Marketing was the best decision I could have made in my learning career! I was taught by world class professionals, made friends for life and have brought experiences from the classroom into the real world where I am employed (less than 3 months after graduation) in a Digital Marketing role. I really found that the program was a positive addition to my resume as well as my academic career. I would recommend this program to anyone with a zest for adventure who is looking to improve themselves!

What was your funniest moment?
I really enjoyed getting to know the other students through the social events which our class officers coordinated. It was great to make international friends!
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Patrick
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

The best time of my life and (occasionally the most stressful)

Attending Trinity College was the highest privilege of my lifetime. I am proud every day that I went here. I was used to American college where everything stuck to schedules and never changed, plus you always knew when tests were. This is not the case here. But if you are adaptable, the staff is always willing to help you out. The disorganization was hard to get used to, but I still recommend going here regardless for the academics and prestige. If you are a hard worker and can self organize, then this is definitely the place for you. Going here and doing the digital marketing masters has opened up a lot of doors for me.

What would you improve about this program?
Try to make a schedule before the year and stick to it

Programs

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Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Samantha Tancredi

My name is Samantha Tancredi, and I am from Memphis, Tennessee, USA. I will be a final year (4th year) studying Law and Political Science, and I also received a Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from the Trinity Business School in 2019 after completing an additional course to my degree.

Why did you choose to study at Trinity College Dublin?

When I was applying to colleges as a high school student, I was looking for a scene that would challenge me personally and academically and also feed my curiosities. In this search, I happened upon information about a dual-degree program between Columbia University in New York City and Trinity College Dublin. After looking into all that the program entailed, I decided to apply to both the dual degree program as well as each school independently. Eventually, I received notice that I had been wait-listed from the dual-degree program, but I was accepted into Trinity. I evaluated my other college acceptances and visited the campuses before deciding that I wanted to explore the unknown; I had never been to Ireland, so choosing to study there was a risk I knew I would have to undertake. However, my desire to travel around Europe and study in a world-renowned university far outweighed the anxiety of the unknown; I felt secure in knowing that Dublin has a reputation for being a friendly, fun, and safe city, so I jumped into the deep end and put down my payment at Trinity.

I was also greatly compelled to accept the offer from Trinity based on the course I applied to—as an 18-year-old, I knew that I wanted to pursue a law degree and also had interest in politics. Thus, having the opportunity to dive right into the subject matter that I truly care about was a massive incentive. I never had to take elementary English courses, but instead was continuously offered ways I could enhance my degree through Certificate programs like the one I participated in or various Trinity Electives that were outside the direct subject matter of my degree. Hindsight has the potential to cause regret, but I can confidently say that moving to Ireland and attending Trinity has been the most rewarding experience, and the best decision I could have made for myself.

What was the application process like at Trinity College Dublin?

As it has been a few years since I went through it, the process may look a bit differently now. To apply to the Law and Political Science course, I had to send in the usual components of American college applications such as an ACT score, a high school transcript, and letters of recommendation. I also had to complete a series of essays that focused on why I had interest in the course and what I would contribute to the Trinity community if accepted. Trinity has a rolling admissions cycle, so I found out my result fairly quickly, and I was given several months to make my decision if needed, which was very helpful in weighing my decision against other acceptances.

What is the international student experience like at Trinity College Dublin?

One of the most noticeable aspects of the international student experience at TCD is that other international students tend to approach you – I found that upon walking onto campus I met other American, German, Canadian, Spanish, and Polish students who have an unspoken bond given the nuance of each individual experience. My closest friends who are non-Irish understand exactly what it is like to move to Ireland and to study in a foreign university. Trinity also does a lot to support its international students whether it is through events celebrating cultural holidays or hosting social hours for students to meet—there is always something to do. TCD offers a program called “Smart Start,” which is available to international students who want to arrive a week-or-so early to Dublin, move in, and explore campus and the city before everything kicks in. This is a great way to make Dublin feel more familiar and like home and enable you to really enjoy the Fresher’s Week activities. In my experience, it has not always been easy to be an international student on campus; there have been times where I have encountered anti-Americanism that was upsetting and unwarranted. Trinity has great systems in place to help students in situations similar to this including international officers, the TCD Student Union has an international officer, and a student counseling service.

The transition to Trinity as an international student is also made easier through a service called Student 2 Student, which is a mentorship program every first year is automatically placed in. Second, third, and fourth year students will volunteer their time to show their assigned group of first years around campus, answer questions throughout the year, and be a key source of contact throughout the Trinity experience. I still message my mentors for advice! Trinity really does a great job of supporting the international students and not making them feel like the “other.” As a last note, I want to say that being an international student at Trinity also means that I have been afforded great opportunities that I know I would otherwise never have—the most prominent of these includes my publication in the joint Law Review between Kings College London and Trinity College Dublin for my article titled “Constitutionalism in Nigeria” and my upcoming participation in a legal symposium in Brussels where I will present research in the area of Irish family law and how the Covid-19 pandemic impacted this field. Nowhere else could I have been offered such incredible opportunities to take advantage of, and they will forever mark my career toward future legal endeavors.

What is it like to live in Dublin as an international student?

This is great question! While I have so many answers to provide, the one that outweighs the rest is the ability to travel has been the greatest gift I have ever been given. Living in Dublin as an international student for me meant taking advantage of exploring a beautiful country with rich history and stunning landscapes. I have loved taking the train across the country and being able to see the niches of Ireland that are less known. Going to Trinity, I have many Irish friends who have opened their homes to me all across the country and really made me feel welcomed. In addition to seeing Ireland, living in Dublin provides students with easy access to the EU. Since moving to Ireland for college I have gotten to see Poland, Austria, the Czech Republic, England, Germany, France, Italy, Portugal, and Scotland. To fly to the continent is wildly inexpensive and so much fun.

When I moved to Dublin, one of the drawbacks I recognized was that I would be missing out on the traditional American college experience, which I am; however, that is replaced by spending a week in Rome with my best friends. It’s hard to beat!

Once the adjustment period to moving to Dublin is complete, it is really easy to live there and enjoy all that the city, and by extension country of Ireland, has to offer. I really encourage all students considering Trinity to do it—since leaving the US, I have learned far more about it than I could have imagined. I have been able to unplug from my previous everyday norms and expand my horizons. To me, that is the authentic international student experience—being challenged and embracing the new. You learn to roll with life as it comes, and you most certainly gain a stronger form of independence and confidence.

What is the cost of living like in Dublin?

In all honesty, Dublin can be an expensive place to live; given the current housing crisis, trying to find affordable accommodation is the greatest battle living in the city. However, it can be done! Outside of student accommodation options, Trinity offers accommodation officers to assist in searches and especially help international students where needed. The cost of living otherwise is as expensive as you make it— for example, of course, if you go to pubs in the city center, the prices will be greater than elsewhere. While it is fun to splurge on a night out, there are also fun, affordable things to do in the city. Many museums or famous sites will offer student discounts, and societies at Trinity will do the same, organizing events or trips for students at a largely discounted price to the usual.

There are also so many fun, free things to do like exploring the parks or walking along the river. To travel around Ireland is made less expensive through purchasing a student Leap Card which enables students to “tap-on” to the LUAS (essentially the tram system in Dublin), the DART (a train that runs along the coast), the Irish Rail, or the bus lines. However, if a student is in the city center, Dublin is a very accessible city to walk in. Living in Trinity Halls in my first year, I was able to save money through simply walking the 40 minutes to and from campus. When it is not raining, it’s an easy walk! Trinity also has on-campus dining options, but most students tend to cook for themselves, which can also help in saving money.

The last thing I would comment on is the tuition prices – for me, studying at Trinity is significantly less costly than doing so in the US. While not every international student has the same experience, for me I have found that my tuition is very affordable compared to the other colleges I was accepted into. The Trinity College Dublin Student Union (TCDSU) has petitioned the college to maintain affordability especially for international students as the Covid-19 pandemic removed on-campus learning opportunities. Having the support of the SU certainly helps keep the College aware of the student experience and the true cost of living.

What have been some of your favorite activities outside of the classroom?

I absolutely love to travel as I have previously discussed, and once the pandemic clears, I will be booking as many flights as I can! I also love to hike and be outside—Trinity has a Hiking Society, but I also love heading out with friends on spontaneous trips. My friends and I are also coffee-fiends, so we have been to an embarrassing amount of coffee shops in Dublin, which is always a lot of fun to explore. I love spending any and all of my free time with my friends – we have picnics in Phoenix Park, explore the countryside, go to a cool pub or club in town, or make dinner together and hang out at home. On campus, I have also been really involved in extracurricular activities that have shaped my Trinity experience. For one, I serve as my class’s representative on the Student Union, so I attend meetings and organize fun social events for my course mates, which I have loved. In pursuing my law degree, I have been involved with Law Society, enabling me to participate in Moot Court, Commercial Negotiation competitions, and the Trinity Women in Law program.

In the 2020-21 academic year I served as the Editor in Chief of The Eagle, which is Trinity’s legal gazette; through this, I was able to engage with the whole student body and publish exceptional pieces, including an interview with Mary Robinson, the former President of Ireland. I also served as the Head Law mentor for the Student 2 Student mentoring program, and that was a great experience in getting to know younger students and providing advice where applicable. Trinity also has a great gym space, so for any students who enjoying working out, you will be good to go! Overall, both Trinity and Dublin alike provide an open opportunity for students to pursue passions and interests that they please—there is no limit to what you can do, and if you do not see something available that interests you, everyone will support you in starting your own thing. Outside of class, I try to keep busy, but everyone is different; finding the right balance is key to being able to get a lot out of the Trinity experience whilst also having the free time needed to do everything you want to do!

Staff Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with program leaders.

Damien O'Farrell

Job Title
Regional Manager North and South America
As the Regional Manager for North and South America. Damien manages the US based Trinity representatives who support students all across the US and the Americas with their applications.
Damien O'Farrell

What is the international student experience like at your university?

A warm Trinity welcome awaits all our students. We believe that a diverse campus adds to the Trinity experience for everyone, enhances their personal development and enriches the culture of the university.

Trinity is an open and inclusive university and we are proud to hold these values. Trinity is ranked 8th in the world for Internationalization with over 28% of students coming from outside Ireland. Trinity is a unique, walled campus located in the heart of one of the most popular and safest cities in the world.

Dublin is a vibrant, young and multicultural European capital, which ranks as the 37th best student city in the world (QS World’s Best Student Cities 2019). With over 170 clubs and societies, including many international groups, there’s something for everyone. At Trinity, involvement in student organizations is an integral part of your education.

What does your university look for in international student applications?

Entry to Irish universities is competitive. The range of studies on offer is vast and the standard set for postgraduate study is exceptionally high. This combination, together with the range of ancillary facilities in the immediate vicinity of the University, offers an almost unparalleled learning experience to all postgraduate students.

When should international students start the application process for your university?

Applications will open from Oct 1st each Fall.

How long does the application process take?

All applications for postgraduate research and taught programs should be made online by logging on to my.tcd.ie. Application process can vary per program.

What can help an international student's application stand out?

Postgraduate study in Trinity is academically challenging and as a result the University has high academic entry requirements. Applicants will need to hold: at least a 2.1 honors degree from an Irish university or equivalent result from a university in another country Some courses may require higher standards or require you to take further tests or attend an interview. Full support can be found here.

What is the academic experience like at TCD compared to other international universities? What surprises students most?

Our students receive a world-class education in a research-centered, collaborative environment and have the opportunity to work with global leaders in their field. Trinity is also the only Irish member of the prestigious League of 23 European Research Universities (LERU). Find out more here.

What is living in Dublin like for international students?

Everything the city has to offer is easily accessible to Trinity students from shops, restaurants and coffee shops to theatres, museums and clubs, ensuring that there is always something exciting for students to enjoy. If you want to take time out to relax in nature, the city’s parks (including Phoenix Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe), an easily accessible coastline, beaches and the Dublin Mountains are all close by. Trinity’s location is also advantageous when you are looking for a job. Dublin’s Innovation District, the ‘Silicon Docks’ is within walking distance, as is the International Financial Services Centre, and a large number of other businesses and organizations which have their Irish headquarters in Dublin. Dublin is also home to many global corporations across a range of sectors.

Any question we missed that you'd like to add to this interview?

Trinity is committed to preparing our students for the ever-changing challenges of the 21st century workplace. Trinity ranks in the Top 100 in the World for Graduate Employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2020).

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