Spring Intake in Ireland 2025-26: Application Deadlines

When Indian students think of studying abroad, Ireland is no longer an underdog, it’s now one of the fastest-growing choices. Infact, Indian enrolments jumped almost 50% in one year, and they now form the biggest share of international students in Ireland. 

And when you think about it, reasons are pretty clear – world-class universities, affordable living compared to many other countries, a friendly atmosphere, and great post-study work opportunities. 

Most students know about the main Autumn (Fall) intake which starts in September. But not everyone is aware of the Spring intake in Ireland, which usually begins in January or February. This intake is especially helpful for students who may have missed the Fall deadlines, need extra time to prepare their applications, or simply don’t want to wait an entire year to start their studies. Another plus? Spring intake often has fewer applicants, so the competition can be a bit less intense. 

If you’re looking to study in Ireland for the 2025-26 academic year, the Spring intake can be a smart choice. It gives you more time to prepare your documents and test scores and lets you begin your education sooner. 

What is the Spring Intake in Ireland? 

The Spring intake in Ireland refers to the admission cycle that usually begins in January or February. While the Fall (Autumn) intake in September is the primary and larger intake, the Spring intake offers students a second chance to start their studies without waiting an entire year. 

Compared to the Fall intake, the Spring intake generally has fewer courses and limited seats. This means you may not find every program available, but many popular ones in STEM, business, and IT are still open. On the bright side, since fewer students apply during Spring, the competition for admission can be slightly lower than in Fall. 

The Spring intake in Ireland universities is an excellent option for students who: 

• Missed the Fall intake deadlines. 
• Need extra time to prepare for English tests (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE) or gather documents. 
• Want to avoid the intense competition of the Fall intake. 
• Prefer starting their studies sooner instead of waiting until the next September. 

What are the Application Deadlines for Spring Intake 2025-26 in Ireland? 

The Spring intake in Ireland usually starts in January or February, and most universities accept applications a few months before that. While the exact deadlines differ by university and program, you can generally plan to apply between June and November 2025. 

General deadline: 

June – August 2025: Application Open 

Applications typically open around June/July 2025. Start your university and course research now. 

Here’s what to do: 

• Course Finalisation: Confirm that your desired postgraduate program is offered in the Spring Intake. 
• Standardised Tests: Book and take your English Language Proficiency tests (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc.). 
• Document Gathering: Prepare your Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and get your academic transcripts certified. 

September – November 2025: Primary Application Deadline 

Apply to all choices by early October to be competitive. Decisions roll in quickly due to the lower volume of applicants. 

Here’s what to do: 

• Submit Applications: Apply to your shortlisted universities online. 
• Receive Offers: Universities begin sending out admission offers (conditional or unconditional). 

October – November 2025: Final Application Deadline 

Some universities have a hard deadline for deposit payment by November 2025. These are crucial for the visa application. 

Here’s what to do: 

• Accept Offer: Accept the best offer and pay the tuition deposit to secure your seat (this is mandatory). 
• Final Documents: Collect your unconditional offer letter and the receipt for your paid tuition deposit. 

November 2025 – December 2025: Visa Application Window 

It is recommended to apply for your visa by early December. Visa processing can take 4–8 weeks; applying early is vital. 

Here’s what to do: 

• Proof of Funds: Prepare your financial documents to show sufficient funds for your studies and living expenses. 
• Visa Application: Apply for your Irish Student Visa (Stamp 2) through the official online portal (AVATS). 

January – February 2026: Classes Start 

Arrive a week or two early for orientation and settling in.  

Here’s what to do: 

• Final Arrangements: Book flights, arrange accommodation, and purchase mandatory health insurance. 

Important note: Since admissions operate on a “first-come, first-served” basis, highly sought-after courses at universities like UCD, Trinity College Dublin, and DCU are likely to close as soon as their seats are full, often well before the final published deadline. For the best chance of admission and securing a scholarship, submit your application by October 2025. 

We highly recommend getting assistance from one of our study abroad experts at Shuraa Education to make the application process fast and simple. 

How to Apply for Spring Intake in Ireland? 

To apply for the Spring Intake in Ireland as an international student, follow this step-by-step process: 

1. Research & Shortlist Universities and Courses 

Explore universities and programs that offer Spring intake. Consider factors like course content, location, fees, scholarships, and post-study work opportunities. Shortlist 3–5 options to focus your applications. 

2. Check Eligibility & Prepare Documents 

Review academic requirements for your chosen program (e.g., GPA, prerequisites). 

Prepare documents such as: 

• Academic transcripts and certificates 
• English test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE) 
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) 
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs) 
• CV/Resume 
• Passport 

3. Submit Online Application 

Most universities have online portals. Fill in your details carefully. Upload the required documents and pay the application fee. Double-check all information before submission. 

4. Receive Offer Letter 

Universities will send an admission decision: either an Unconditional Offer (you meet all criteria) or a Conditional Offer (you need to meet outstanding requirements, like final exam scores). 

5. Confirm Admission & Pay Tuition Deposit 

Once you accept the offer, pay the tuition deposit to secure your seat. The university will issue an official confirmation letter, which you’ll need for your visa application. 

6. Apply for a Student Visa 

Apply for an Irish Study Visa (Stamp 2) at the nearest Irish embassy/consulate. Provide necessary documents: admission letter, financial proof, passport, and medical insurance. 

7. Arrange Accommodation & Travel 

Apply for on-campus or off-campus housing. Book flights and plan your arrival in Ireland in time for orientation. 

Register with the local immigration office (Garda National Immigration Bureau – GNIB) within 90 days of arrival to receive your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card. 

And remember: Shuraa Education can assist you with every step of your Spring intake journe – from selecting the right course and preparing documents to visa guidance and travel arrangements. 

Popular Universities Offering Spring Intake in Ireland 

Here’s a list of popular universities in Ireland that offer the spring intake: 

Note: The estimated tuition fees are approximate and can vary based on the specific program and university. 

Plan Your Spring Intake in Ireland with Shuraa Education 

The Spring intake in Ireland is another great opportunity for students who want to start their studies earlier, avoid the heavy competition of the Fall intake, or need extra time to get their documents ready. Even though it’s smaller than the September intake, it still gives you access to top programs, good post-study work opportunities, and a friendly campus environment. 

The key to success is to start preparing early- choose your universities and courses, gather your documents, and plan your visa well in advance. Early preparation makes the whole process much smoother and less stressful. 

If you want a stress-free and guided experience, Shuraa Education can help you at every step. We can assist in selecting the right course and preparing your application, visa support and travel arrangements. With the right guidance, your dream of studying in Ireland can become much easier and more enjoyable.