IELTS for an Irish study visa
The IELTS Ireland's immigration service needs for a study visa: Academic 5.0 for degree courses, 4.0 for foundation and preparatory English, and why your college's requirement comes first.
The band you need
| For | Test | Overall | Each skill |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree and other coursesIELTS for UKVI accepted at the same score. | IELTS Academic | 5.0 | Not stated |
| Foundation (NFQ level 5), second-level, or a preparatory English course | IELTS Academic | 4.0 | Not stated |
Checked 29 October 2026 against the sources below. Requirements change, and your university or employer may ask for more: confirm with them before you book.
A practice plan
- These are the visa minimums: your college sets its own requirement, usually higher, and you must meet it too. Check its admissions page first.
- Your certificate must be issued within two years of your course's start date.
- Aim for your college's score in full mock tests under real timing, not just the visa minimum.
Start here
Questions
What IELTS score do I need for an Irish study visa?
For a degree or other course that is not second-level, foundation or preparatory English, Irish immigration's minimum is IELTS Academic 5.0. Your college's own requirement may be higher, and you must meet that too.
Do I need IELTS for an English language course in Ireland?
You don't have to submit a test result with the application, but the visa officer may ask for other evidence of a basic level of English.
How old can my IELTS result be?
The certificate must have been issued within two years of your course's expected start date.
How much does IELTS cost in Bangladesh?
IDP Bangladesh lists IELTS on Computer (Academic or General Training) at BDT 31,100 and IELTS for UKVI at BDT 34,850, and a One Skill Retake at BDT 18,600. Check the current fee when you book.