Established in 1854, University College Dublin has a long tradition of teaching and research excellence. An ambitious and innovative university, it ranks in the world’s top higher-education institutions. In more than 130 hectares of expansive parkland estate, and just a short hop from Dublin city center, the state-of-the-art campus has everything you need for a rewarding university experience.
University College Dublin English Language Standalone Program









About the Program
Program Advisor

At a Glance
Stay Healthy & Safe While You Study Abroad
Doi Kaho
When I'm in Tokyo, I'm surrounded by tall buildings and many people, but in Dublin it felt like time slowed and I could live comfortably.
University College Dublin SAF Alumni

About the University
University College Dublin
Established in 1854, University College Dublin has a long tradition of teaching and research excellence, and it ranks in the world’s top one percent of higher education institutions. The campus encompasses an expansive parkland estate, providing ample space for its facilities and students. The main campus is downtown, but public transportation makes it easy for you to explore Ireland’s capital and largest city and mingle with the locals in this vibrant, popular literary town.
Learn more at University College Dublin's official website.
Academics

University College Dublin's Academic Approach
UCD has over 180 years of teaching and research excellence. The university is ranked in the world’s top 1% of higher education institutions, offering a blend of English language learning support with cultural education. You will improve your English abilities while getting an in depth understanding of Irish culture and its people.
Courses
Classroom Hours
In 20 hours per week, your study four hours of English per day, Monday to Friday, two courses per day of two hours each.
- English for Academic Purposes components
- Academic Skills components
- Grammar and Vocabulary for Academic and Everyday Life seminars
- Information and Communication technology skills
- Induction to university life and systems
- Irish Culture and Society Workshops
If you attend 25 or more weeks of English language courses at UCD, you are required to take an IELTS exam at the end of the term at the UCD ALC IELTS Test Exam Centre (UCD will register you if appropriate).
*SAF program fee tuition rate is based upon enrollment in 20 hours of language instruction per week.
Language Levels
There are six levels, each running between 10 and 15 weeks.
Get To Know Our Application Process
From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.
Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor
Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.
Application Requirements
The requirements outlined in this section include the language proficiency scores you may need to demonstrate your language skills, a guide to the GPA range and other academic prerequisites required by your host university, and a list of documentation and other application materials you will need to finalize your application. You may need to supply additional information throughout the process, and you will be alerted through your emails and SAF Student Portal if this is the case for you.
Language Test Score Requirements
A language test when you arrive determines your skill level.
Program Dates
When studying abroad, you will want to consider the time of year and how long you are away. Most programs follow the host university's academic calendar.
The dates shown below are general estimates, and as you get closer to the start of the term, you will get more detailed information from SAF. If you have any questions, your Student Counsellor and Program Specialist are always here to support you and point you to the correct information.
Fall 2023 Language Standalone
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Fall 2023 Language Standalone + Winter 2024 Language Standalone
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Fall 2023 Language Standalone + Winter 2024 Language Standalone + Spring 2024 Language Standalone
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Spring 2024 Language Standalone + Summer 2024 Language Standalone
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Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
Spring 2024 Language Standalone + Summer 2024 Language Standalone + Fall 2024 Language Standalone
Program dates:
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
Spring 2024 Language Standalone + Summer 2024 Language Standalone + Fall 2024 Language Standalone + Winter 2024 Language Standalone
Program dates:
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
Housing Information

Homestay
During your time in Dublin, you become part of a homestay family, sharing in the day-to-day life of your English-speaking hosts.
*Housing is subject to availability. For specific questions regarding housing please contact SAF.
About Dublin

Why Dublin
Dublin, Ireland’s capital and largest city, is a culturally rich place to study. From its historic roots and ancient castle to modern buildings and attractions, it is a vibrant, popular literary town with a very friendly welcome. Google, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Dropbox have all made their European home, here, too.
The Student Experience

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Orientation
Advising and Support
The process of studying abroad could quickly feel overwhelming, but we have been doing this for decades and do everything we can to support you through it.
Many SAF staff are alumni and have walked this path. They have real-life experience to draw on as they advise and support you through every step of our comprehensive services. They’re in your corner, taking care of all the details and explaining what you need to do next.
Take the first step in your study abroad journey by scheduling a consultation with your closest Student Counselor. You can discuss your for-credit academic courses and language programs and explore internships, research programs, and study tours. When you know what you want to do, we guide you through the pre-program steps, help you arrange your visa and transport, and finalize your accommodation or digital experience.
Get To Know Our Application Process
From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.
Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor
Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.
Commonly Asked Questions About Studying Abroad
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Why Travel With SAF?
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