Institute of Technology Carlow

Founded in 1970 IT Carlow is located in the centre of Ireland’s South Leinster region (containing the counties of Carlow, Wicklow, Wexford, Kildare, Laois and Kilkenny), and on the periphery of the Mid East and South East Regions of Ireland (Figure 1). IT Carlow is the fourth largest Institute out of 14 Institutes of Technology (IoTs) in the country with approximately 7000 learners. Having acted as a catalyst for the generation of over 45,000 graduate’s to-date, IT Carlow’s current student diversity is reflected in its mix of traditional leaving certificate entrants, a growing European and international student body, an increasing proportion of mature students and learners from disadvantaged backgrounds, as well as a significant number of part-time learners (approximately 33% of the total IT Carlow WTE).

IT Carlow provides higher educational full-time taught programmes from level 6 – 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications, along with research programmes at level 9 & 10 and enterprise development opportunities, through its centres in Carlow and Wexford. The Institute also provides part-time programmes in Carlow, Wexford, Wicklow, Kilkenny, Kildare (the Curragh), Shannon, Dublin (An Cosan, Tallaght).  

English Language Requirement

Students must provide evidence of having reached the required standard in the English Language in reading, writing and communication. A minimum IELTS score of 5.5 to 6 or equivalent completion of studies.  Some programmes may require a higher standard e.g. computing. A certified statement of proficiency in English must be provided as a prerequisite to registration as a student of the Institute.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Students must demonstrate that they have reached a level of education in their country of origin that is the equivalent of a Secondary School Diploma (High School Diploma) with good grades in an appropriate language, mathematics and at least 4 other subjects. 

Students must also have an IELTS of 5.5 or equivalent.

Please note that some programmes, such as our Child Youth and Family Studies may also require the provision of References.  Other programmes, such as our Sports and Design programmes require the provision of a Portfolio. Students should check under the course details for special entry requirements.

Advanced Entry Requirements

IT Carlow welcomes applications from students who have completed studies at higher level at other institutions and who wish to transfer onto a degree programme at IT Carlow.

In order to gain non-first year entry an applicant must provide certified copies of their University examination results detailing all subjects’ studies during their University programme. High School transcripts are also to be provided in these cases.

The relevant Head of Department within the Institute of Technology, Carlow will assess all application material and if the previous study closely relates to the required course in the Institute, non-first-year entry will be granted.

An interview may be necessary to ensure the student is of an acceptable standard. Exemptions are at the total discretion of the Institute of Technology, Carlow.

Students must also have an IELTS of 5.5 or equivalent.

Taught Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Applicants should have an honours degree in a related subject

If English is not your first language, a minimum score 6.0 IELTS or equivalent is required for all postgraduate programmes

Certificate in Preparation for Higher Education (Foundation Programme) 

Entry Requirements

Applicants must also have an IELTS of 4.5 or equivalent

Applicants must provide High School/Secondary School transcripts in order to be assessed for entry to this programme

The Institute of Technology Carlow awards academic scholarships and gold & elite sports scholarships to students who have distinguished themselves, both academically and through their exceptional sporting ability. IT Carlow has also announced details of its High Performance Entry Scheme, a new departure for the Institute that will award up to 50 extra CAO points for students who excel outside the classroom in three key areas - Innovation/Entrepreneurship, Active Citizenship and Sport. For more information