Eligibility and Application
A flexible admissions policy is in place, with two routes of entry; one based on mature years, life experience and academic aptitude and the second based upon matriculation (i.e. Leaving Certificate). The former route of entry tends to be the most common one with the average age of students in the region of 32 years. The admissions process may include an interview and a writing skills test may also form part of the assessment.
Students will require access to a laptop/PC, microphone, camera, and broadband to be able to participate fully in the programme.
Please note this is a direct entry programme. Applications are not via the CAO.
To qualify on the basis of mature years, you must be at least 23 years of age on the 1st January of the proposed year of entry. Suitability will be based on age, work and life experience that is relevant to the course, and academic aptitude. The assessment process may include an interview and a writing skills test.
To qualify on the basis of matriculation, you must be 21 on the 1st of January of the proposed year of entry.
UCD Minimum Entry Requirements (Matriculation) can be viewed here.
You may qualify for an exemption from the diploma (stage 1 of the degree) if you meet the following criteria:
- If you hold a HETAC ordinary degree or a national/higher certificate (level 6 qualification) or diploma in business (level 7 qualification or an equivalent business qualification), with a grade of merit or above
- Please view our curriculum (curriciulum tab) to see if what you have studied matches the modules on our diploma in business studies in order for you to gain an exemption
- When you are applying online, please tick the box stating you are interested in an exemption. You will need to complete the online Recognition of Prior Learning Form.
- In your supporting documentation, please upload your transcripts of results and lists of modules you have completed.
All exemption documentation must be submitted by 31st July of the year you intend to commence the programme.
Applicants whose previous education was not taught through the medium of English must meet the University's minimum English language requirements.
UCD Minimum English Language Requirements
Course Fees
| Fee 2025 / 2026 | Instalments | When |
|---|---|---|
|
€3,690 (EU Fee) pa |
Payable in two instalments |
September & January |
|
Note: The UCD Admissions website outlines criteria to determine your Fee Status (EU or non-EU). |
||
|
€7,790 (Non-EU fee) pa |
Payable in two instalments |
September & January |
A non-refundable deposit of €500 is paid upon offer of a place on the programme and this deposit is then deducted from the Semester One fees.
This yearly programme fee covers registration, study materials, textbooks, the setting and marking of assignments, tuition during block release sessions, and academic support. The fee does not include accommodation or meals during block release sessions. In all cases, fees paid are not refundable.
For Information on Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas Fees click here.
For more information on Undergraduate Bachelor Fees click here.
UCD Think Again Scholarship: The UCD Think Again Scholarship is a scholarship and development programme for women over the age of 23 from low-income backgrounds. It is available to women studying full-time or part-time, including those studying a Bachelor / Diploma of Business Studies. This scholarship is managed by UCD Access and Lifelong Learning, and further information is available on this webpage.
NOTE: Fees indicated on this page are correct at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to change programme tuition fees and other charges each year. This UCD Fees webpage is the official webpage where UCD fees are published. Any fees quoted on any other site are for guidance only.
How to submit an application
- Students must submit applications online at www.ucd.ie/apply
- An application cannot be processed until your application fee has been paid in full
- All applicants to the bbs must submit an online application under 'bssm dbs pt' (the DBS represents stage 1 of the BBS and entry is to the diploma initially)
- An interview may form part of the admissions process.
- This interview will take place in the UCD School of Business
- Formal offer of a place on the Diploma/Bachelor of Business Studies programme is made.
- This offer is made online
- You decide whether to accept the offer extended. Offer must be accepted online and a non-refundable deposit of €500 paid
- Once an offer is accepted and the deposit is paid, your place on the Diploma/Bachelor of Business Studies is secured
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