Pathway Programme for International Students

Learn more about Pathway Programme for International Students available at NCI.

Meet NCI Students

Information on NCI's Foundation Programme Partner 

Each year, many international students aspire to study in Ireland, but sometimes do not meet the direct entry requirements for their preferred Bachelor's or Master's degree.

This is often due to differences in education systems and qualifications between countries, or because some applicants may benefit from further academic, English language, or professional preparation.

However, not meeting the direct entry requirements does not mean your journey to NCI ends here.

National College of Ireland provides a variety of supportive pathways to help international students progress towards their chosen degree.

Available Pathways

Depending on your academic background, English language proficiency, and professional experience, you may be eligible to progress through one of the following pathways:

OnCampus Ireland International Foundation Programme (Bachelor's Degree Only)

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The OnCampus Ireland International Foundation Programme is NCI's approved foundation pathway for international students. It is delivered at the OnCampus Ireland Centre in Maynooth. After successfully completing the programme and meeting the required progression criteria, students can progress to an eligible Bachelor's degree at NCI.

The programme is designed for students who want to study a Bachelor's degree at NCI but need additional academic preparation.

It may be suitable if you:

  • Have completed secondary education but your qualification does not allow direct entry to Year
  • Need additional academic preparation before university.
  • Need to improve your academic English and study skills.

What will you develop?

  • Academic knowledge
  • Academic English
  • Research and study skills
  • Critical thinking and independent learning
  • Preparation for university life in Ireland

Key features:

  • Delivered by NCI's approved pathway provider, OnCampus Ireland
  • Progression to eligible NCI Bachelor's degrees
  • QQI Level 5 Certificate, comprising 120 FET credits (approximately 60 ECTS)

If you would like to see how the OnCampus Ireland International Foundation Programme or Pre-Master's Programme aligns with your academic background, the OnCampus pathway specialists are here to guide you.

You are welcome to book an appointment with the OnCampus team for personalised advice and support.

Have you already completed another Foundation Programme?

NCI accepts selected Foundation qualifications completed in Ireland and other countries.
Contact International@ncirl.ie to check whether your qualification may be recognised.

Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) (Master's Degree Only)

Your professional experience may provide an alternative route to Master's admission if you do not meet the standard academic entry requirements.

RPEL may be suitable if you:

  • Do not meet the standard academic entry requirements for your chosen Master's degree.
  • Have several years of relevant professional experience.
  • Have developed substantial knowledge and professional skills through your career.
  • Can demonstrate that your previous learning and experience are relevant to the Master's programme.

Each RPEL application is carefully assessed on an individual basis by the relevant NCI academic school.

Please note: If you are applying for a Master's degree, your CV is particularly important if you are considering the RPEL pathway.

Your CV should clearly explain your professional experience, including:

  • The roles and responsibilities you have held
  • The projects and work you have undertaken
  • The technical or professional skills you have developed
  • How your experience relates to the Master's degree you want to study
  • A well-prepared CV enables NCI to fully understand your professional experience and determine if the RPEL pathway is the right fit for you

Find out how to apply through Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) page.

OnCampus Ireland Pre-Master's Programme (Master's Degree Only)

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The OnCampus Ireland Pre-Master's Programme is tailored for international students who wish to pursue a Master's degree at NCI and would benefit from further academic preparation before starting postgraduate study.

It may be suitable if you:

  • Do not meet the standard academic entry requirements for your chosen Master's degree.
  • Need to strengthen your preparation for Master's-level study.
  • Need additional English language preparation.
  • Need to develop the academic and research skills required for postgraduate study.

What will you develop?

This programme equips you with the skills and knowledge needed for postgraduate study, including:

  • Academic and research skills
  • Critical thinking
  • Digital literacy
  • Advanced English for postgraduate study
  • Subject-specific knowledge
  • Independent learning
  • Employability skills
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Research and dissertation skills

Why Choose the OnCampus Ireland Pre-Master's Programme?

  • NCI-only approved Pre-Master's pathway
  • Delivered by a QQI-approved education provider
  • Designed specifically to prepare international students for postgraduate study in Ireland
  • Progression to eligible NCI Master's programmes after successfully meeting the required progression criteria
  • Progression scholarship to NCI up to €5,000
  • Preparation for academic success and life in Ireland

If you would like to see how the OnCampus Ireland International Foundation Programme or Pre-Master's Programme aligns with your academic background, the OnCampus pathway specialists are here to guide you.

You are welcome to book an appointment with the OnCampus team for personalised advice and support.

How does NCI International Pathways work?

You don't need to decide on your pathway before applying for the chosen programme. Our dedicated Admissions team will carefully review your qualifications and guide you on whether you:

  1. Meet the requirements for direct entry; or
  2. Could benefit from an alternative pathway to help you progress to your chosen NCI degree.

You can also explore the entry requirements specific to your country on the relevant NCI Country Page.

Further Information
If you would like to learn more about the Pathway Programme for International Students at NCI, please contact our International team who will be happy to assist.
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