Intakes in Ireland: Major Intakes, Minor Intakes & Application Process

Ireland has become one of the most popular destinations for students from abroad as it offers a range of renowned universities, excellent education, and job opportunities in fields such as technology, business, and medicine. However, information about intakes in Ireland can be important for you to know before you follow through on your Irish education journey. Each country has its own academic calendar, and it holds for Ireland. 

In this blog, we will go through how many intakes in Ireland you can expect as a student, the types of intakes in Ireland, what the majors intakes in Ireland are compared to the minor intakes, and finally, what the application process will be to graduate school in Ireland. 

Intakes in Ireland

Before applying to any Irish University, it is good that you are aware of the intake in Ireland for international students. The expression ‘intake’ is used to denote the duration during which universities accept applications for admission into different courses.

There are generally two main study intakes in Ireland: a major and a minor. Certain universities also have other intakes according to the type of course and level of study. So let’s break each one down.

How Many Intakes in Ireland Are There?

One of the common question that students asks is “How many intakes in Ireland for study?” The answer is — Ireland generally has two primary intakes in a year:

1. Fall Intake (September/October) – Major intake

    

2. Spring Intake (January/February) – Minor intake

Some institutions also offer a Summer intake (May/June) is available for select programs, such as diplomas, foundation courses, or some postgraduate studies.

All of these admission intakes in Ireland have their own significance, adhering to varied academic requirements, university timelines, and student choices.

Major Intakes in Ireland

In Ireland, the major intakes in ireland are in September and October, which they refer to as the Fall intake. This is the most popular time for Irish and international students to begin their academic programmes.

1. Fall Intake (September/October)

This intake is considered the primary intake in Ireland, as most universities and colleges open a wide range of programs across various disciplines during this period. Students enrolling in this intake get access to:

• Maximum number of courses and specialisations
  
• Higher availability of scholarships
  
• Larger peer network and events
  
• Better internship and part-time job opportunities

For students planning to apply for the major intakes in Ireland, it is advised to start preparing their applications at least 8–10 months in advance, ideally around November of the previous year.

Most top universities, such as Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and University of Galway, accept the majority of their admissions during this intake.

Minor Intakes in Ireland

Apart from the major intake, there is also a smaller window known as the minor intake or Spring intake (January/February).

2. Spring Intake (January/February)

This intake works for the applicants who have just missed the September admission round or need time for a financial plan, visa processing, and OT results. While this intake has fewer options than the Fall batch, there are still a few highly sought-after programs, particularly in the fields of Business, IT, and Engineering.

Those who are applying for this intake should start preparation from May / June in the previous year, so that there will be enough time to submit their documents and application form on time.

While it’s a minor intake, it can provide an easier option for students frustrated by the heavy competition and deadlines of fall sessions.

Other or Additional Intakes

Some universities/colleges might also have Summer intakes (May/June) for certain short-term programs, English language preparatory courses, or diploma certifications. These are not classified as the Major intake in Ireland; however, students who are looking to start their higher studies early or want to enhance their academic credentials may consider them.

Upcoming Intakes in Ireland

If you want to start your study abroad process soon, make sure you have the relevant information about upcoming intakes in Ireland. Some examples of soon-to-come sessions:

• September 2025 Intake (Major)
  
• January 2026 Intake (Minor)
  
• May 2026 Intake (Limited Programs)

For dates and deadlines, every student can visit the university websites or one of the Ireland Education Consultants for exhaustive details on the intake period, course-wise. Applying early betters your chances of securing the course and university you’d like to attend.

Intakes in Ireland for International Students

The intakes in Ireland for international students are organised in an order that provides flexibility and allows sufficient time for your visa application processing, accommodation, and travel planning. 

Most international students from India choose the September intake due to its compatibility with the Indian academic calendar. Also, there are more available courses and scholarships at that time. However, if students complete their graduation late in the year, they can take comfort in knowing they can apply for the January intake. 

The following timelines will help facilitate a seamless application process, regarding everything you must take care of: 

These timelines may vary slightly depending on the university, but they provide a clear roadmap for planning.

Intakes in Ireland for Indian Students

The intakes in Ireland for Indian students are the same as that of intakes for international students, but Visa dates and proof of funding requirements should be taken into consideration.

Indian students should also know that for the September intake, Irish universities are very competitive, so apply as soon as you can. It is now the formative session for most universities, which provides early-bird scholarships specifically during this term.

For Indian students wanting to enrol in postgraduate studies, there is a great opportunity for a spring intake, especially for MBAs or MScs with rolling admissions. Checking with Ireland Education Consultants can help you to find out which universities accept Indian Students in all intakes and what financial documents are required for visa success.

Application Process for Irish Universities

It is important that, for planning your admission to the right study intakes in Ireland, you are familiar with the application process. If each university has its own admission portal and criteria, the overall process is very similar across all universities.

Step 1: Research Your Course and University

Begin by selecting universities and courses that suit your qualifications and future plans. Review entry requirements, duration, and tuition fees.

Step 2: Prepare Application Documents

Common documents required for admission include:

• Academic transcripts and mark sheets
  
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
  
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
  
• Updated resume or CV
  
• Valid passport copy
  

Step 3: Submit Application

The majority of Irish universities accept online applications via their own websites or centralised systems. Apply before the application Deadline for your admission inteka in Ireland.

Step 4: Receive Offer Letter

When your application is accepted, you will receive an offer of either a Conditional Offer(Including pending documents) or an Unconditional Offer.

Step 5: Accept the Offer and Pay Deposit

Upon acceptance… Secure your seat by submitting a tuition deposit as specified in the offer of admission.

Step 6: Apply for a Student Visa

Once you have received your offer, commence with the visa process at once. It will take 4-8 weeks for this visa to be processed, so plan accordingly in relation to your upcoming intakes in Ireland.

Step 7: Plan Travel and Accommodation

Upon visa approval, make all travel arrangements, student housing, and health insurance prior to arrival.

Why Consult Ireland Education Consultants?

Dealing with the best Ireland Education Consultants can simplify the entire process. These are consultants who assist with course selection, applying to universities, visa documentation, and pre-departure advice.

They can also guide you on the scholarships offered for each study intake in Ireland, advise you to prepare a good SOP, and ensure that your application is in line with what has been established by the university.

Conclusion

Choosing the best intakes in Ireland could be a game-changer for your academic and professional career. Well, whether it’s for the major intakes in Ireland (Sep/Oct) or minor intakes (Jan/Feb), proper preparation and support can help you get admission in your desired university.

By knowing how many intakes in Ireland there are and which intake works for you, one can make the right choice to apply at the right time to pursue education abroad.

If you are confused between these two intakes and seeking assistance so that you would not face rejection, contacting professional Ireland Education Consultants is a wise move to make admission hassle-free.

FAQs

Ques. 1. How many intakes in Ireland are available for international students?

Ans: There are generally two intakes in Ireland: the September intake and the January intake. Limited programs are also available in the Summer intake – May or June for some universities.

Ques. 2. Which is the major intake in Ireland?

Ans: The September intakes are the prime intakes for students, offering the widest range of programs, scholarship options, and courses available.

Ques. 3. Can Indian students apply for both intakes in Ireland?

Ans: Yes, admissions in Ireland are available for Indian students in September and January intakes. But most Indian students opt for the September intake, which matches their academic year.

Ques. 4. When should I start applying for the upcoming intakes in Ireland?

Ans: Students need to plan at least 8–10 months before the intake. Again, for the September entry, you may start applying from as early as November to April.

Ques. 5. Do I need an education consultant to apply for Irish universities?

Ans: While it is technically not required, that’s where Ireland Education Consultants come to play, to streamline your admission and visa process, ensuring in-phase documents and timelines as per University requirements.