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Dublin International Foundation College

Dublin

https://www.difc.ie/
  • Overview
  • Ranking
  • Intakes
  • Courses
  • Cost to Study
  • Scholarships
  • Admissions
  • Placements
  • Gallery
  • FAQs

Overview

Dublin International Foundation College (DIFC) was established in 1999 to offer foundation program courses for international students. These courses support students in progressing to partner universities in Ireland and the UK.
 

In 2004, DIFC was selected by NCUK as its exclusive delivery centre in Ireland, making it the only Irish institution affiliated with the Northern Consortium of UK Universities (NCUK). Through this partnership, students have access to a wide range of academic pathways in the UK and Ireland.
 

Students who complete the NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) or Master’s Preparation program at DIFC and meet the required standards are guaranteed a place at a university in their chosen field of study. Over the past ten years, DIFC has helped more than 1,200 students secure admission to Postgraduate and Undergraduate courses at partner universities.
 

With access to over 400 courses across a network of more than 90 universities, students can choose from a diverse range of study options. Among these institutions, more than nine are ranked within the world’s top 100 universities. For those looking to study in Ireland or UK, if their preferred university isn’t part of the list, DIFC provides dedicated admissions and placement support to guide them through the application process.

Intakes

Dublin International Foundation College intakes are offered twice in year. Students can apply for their chosen program according to their availability.

All courses are available in September and January, giving students the flexibility to study according to their convenience.

Top Courses to study at Dublin International Foundation College

Dublin International Foundation College courses include a variety of options, including both Pre-Master’s Programs and International Foundation pathways.
 

The NCUK Pre-Master’s Program is structured to help students progress into a suitable Master’s degree at a partner university. It includes two main parts: a core academic section and a subject-specific module related to the student’s area of interest.
 

The International Foundation Year prepares international students for entry into the first year of an Undergraduate Degree. Spanning 7 to 9 months, the course blends subject-based learning with English language training, study techniques, and an introduction to academic and cultural life.

Pre-Masters Program

€ 12000

Annual Fee

10 Months

Duration

Pre-Masters Program

€ 10000

Annual Fee

7 Months

Duration

International Foundation Programme - Health Science ( Medicine )

€ 18800

Annual Fee

9 Months

Duration

International Foundation Programme - Health Science ( Medicine )

€ 18800

Annual Fee

7 Months

Duration

International Foundation Programme -Technology & Engineering

€ 16600

Annual Fee

9 Months

Duration

International Foundation Programme -Technology & Engineering

€ 16600

Annual Fee

7 Months

Duration

Note: The listed courses are among the popular choices; however, universities may offer a wider range of programs. It is recommended to check the university’s official website for the complete list of available courses.

Cost to Study at Dublin International Foundation College

Dublin International Foundation College Tuition fees for international students differ based on the chosen program. The overall cost generally covers tuition, registration, exam fees, medical insurance, and course materials. Additional charges may apply for optional services such as airport transfers and accommodation arrangement.
 

Dublin International Foundation College fees can be paid by Direct Bank Transfer or by Flywire. 

Types of Expenses Annual Expenses in
Annual PG Tuition fee10 - 11 Lakhs
Annual UG Tuition Fee 14 - 17 Lakhs
Annual Accommodation & Food Expenses11 - 13 Lakhs

Note: The expenses mentioned are approximate and may vary. It is recommended to check the university’s official website for the most up-to-date fee structure.

Admission Requirement

Admission Requirements for Dublin International Foundation College depend on the applicant’s country of origin. Students must be at least 17 years old at the start of their course. In some special cases, those aged 16 may be considered, although their options for progression may be limited.
 

For English proficiency, NCUK recognizes various qualifications such as IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL iBT.
Indian students planning to study at the Dublin International Foundation College can find the requirements here.
 

Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum score of 50–55% from a recognized institution. Alternatively, candidates with a three-year diploma in a relevant field may also be considered.

✅ PTE: Minimum overall score of 41
✅ TOEFL iBT: Minimum overall score of 45
✅ IELTS: Overall score of 5.5, with no individual band below 5.0
 

Completion of Grade 12 with at least 50–55% from a recognized school or board is required.

✅ PTE: Minimum overall score of 41
✅ TOEFL iBT: Minimum overall score of 45
✅ IELTS: Overall score of 5.5, with no band lower than 5.0

Note: Admission requirements may vary, it is advisable to check the official university website for the most up-to-date and specific eligibility criteria.

Student Essential Services

Each student at Dublin International Foundation College receives academic and personal support throughout their studies, coordinated by the Student Services Manager and a dedicated support team.

Students at DIFC have access to sports facilities and eight active clubs through Griffith College Dublin. The on-campus Sports Centre is also available for regular use. Each month, DIFC arranges social events, including visits to popular Dublin attractions and seasonal activities like ice skating or the Street Performance Festival.

The Student Services Team offers continuous guidance throughout the academic year, with tailored support for international students. Each student is also assigned a tutor who conducts weekly sessions and one-on-one tutorials every few weeks.

DIFC provides students with support in finding suitable accommodation at one of its partner universities in Ireland.

FAQs

Dublin International Foundation College (DIFC) has partnerships with over 90 universities across the globe, including nine ranked among the world’s top 100. It offers full university placement counselling to international students pursuing degrees abroad.

The International Foundation Year (IFY) prepares students for first-year undergraduate study in Ireland or the UK. DIFC offers four academic pathways: Business & Management, Engineering & Technology, Science, and Health Science—each aligned with relevant degree options such as Business, Law, Engineering, Medicine, and more.

Students enrolled at DIFC are not allowed to take up part-time work during their foundation studies.

While both the International Foundation Year and A-Levels are accepted for university admissions, the IFY is completed in 7 to 9 months compared to the two years required for A-Levels. The IFY includes three academic modules relevant to the student’s chosen field, along with English for Academic Purposes.

Dublin is ranked 32nd globally as a student-friendly city in terms of diversity and overall experience. It is also recognized as the 7th best city in the world to visit, offering international students a lively and welcoming environment.

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