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National College of Ireland: Rankings, Popular Courses, Fees
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0.8 acre campus- Estd. 1951
Last updated on 18 Jun '26NCIWhat's new?
- Indian Students can now apply for the Sep 2026 intake at NCI Ireland
- The deadline for submitting your application is Jul 1, 2026
About National College of Ireland
The National College of Ireland is a public college based in Dublin, Ireland. Accredited by the QQA, it is popular among Indian students for its career-focused courses, strong connections in the industry, and a proven placement record. It is one of the top colleges in Ireland for Indian students.
At NCI Ireland, students follow a more hands-on approach to learning, with most courses designed for you to learn the skills that are currently in demand in the industry. Interested students need to do well in academics to get a seat here, as the National College of Ireland Acceptance Rate is 50%, per unofficial sources.
Here is what a student of the 2025 Batch of MSc in Accounting had to say about their study experience at the college, as part of NCI Ireland student reviews on Shiksha Study Abroad.
A college that shaped my growth, independence, and confidence. NCI is fast-paced, so good time management really helps. The cultural shift is real, but it made me stronger and more independent. I received a scholarship, and I am genuinely happy with the college, course, and experience here.
National College of Ireland Information
Given below are some interesting facts you should know about higher studies at NCI.
| Fact | Validation |
|---|---|
| Location | Mayor Street Lower, International Financial Services Centre, Dublin 1, Ireland |
| Total Students | 6,016 |
| Percentage of Full-time Students | 58% |
| School of Business | 3,029 |
| School of Computing | 2,460 |
| Total Countries Represented | 121 |
| Female Students | 2,846 |
| Student to Faculty Ratio | 13:5 |
| Media | NCI News Updates |
History
It began as the Catholic Workers College, after growing demand for a college to improve the social conditions after the effects of World War II. Fr. Edward Coyne, SJ, played a key role as one of the principal founders of the college. It was renamed as the College of Industrial Relations in 1966. Fr Quinn took over as the Director of the place in 1969 and was replaced by John Brady in 1972. Paddy Moriarity played a key role in the college's expansion over the next few years, until it took over its present-day name in 2000.
Check out the videos below to know more about studies at UCI Ireland.
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
The National College of Ireland is among the top choices of international students in Ireland for continuing higher studies. NCI offers a welcoming environment for its international students. The University offers a variety of programs at both UG and PG levels for its international students. NCI's placement rate is 86%, for MSc in Management graduates. National College of Ireland's student body features international students from over 120 countries all over the world.
The below video gives a glimpse of the Indian student life at NCI Ireland:
National College of Ireland acceptance rate is 50%. This shows that NCI is moderately selective for admissions and international students may find it comparatively tougher to get into.
Our expert Shiksha Study Abroad counsellors have helped several Indian students secure a seat in their favorite programme at NCI Ireland and other top colleges/universities in the UK, FREE of cost.
Just get on the phone with them and they'll guide with you everything you need to know from costs, scholarships, admission chances, to housing, and education loan.
The choice of which is better out of NCI Ireland and Griffith College Cork depends on academic goals. NCI Dublin is better for students interested in Computing, Data Analytics, and Business programs due to its IFSC location and strong graduate employment outcomes.
Griffith College Cork is ideal for students interested in Accounting, Pharmaceutical Management, Law, Media and Design.
National College of Ireland is known for offering the ultimate environment for students, top-class infrastructure, best programs, and more. NCI has produced more than 50,000 alumni who are working worldwide. National College of Ireland's placement rate attracts international students the most. NCI is highly regarded for offering the perfect balance between academic and personal development for its international and domestic students. The university offers programs at UG and PG levels for its students.
National College of Ireland Ranking 2026
The National College of Ireland is one of the top places to study in Ireland. It ranks among the top 20 universities in Ireland, as part of the latest Ireland university rankings given by Shiksha. The National College of Ireland Ranking 2026 is #15 on a national level. On the other hand, the National College of Ireland World Ranking 2026 is #973.
By Other Ranking Bodies
NCI Ireland also finds a place as part of the world university rankings given by QS World. The National College of Ireland QS Ranking 2026 is #701 in Europe.
#977
#15
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
NIC ranks among the top 15 to 20 colleges and universities in the country. It is particularly well ranked for its business, computing, and psychology programs. The institute holds 5 out of 5 stars as part of the QS Stars Rating.
It received 5 stars for internationalisation, inclusiveness, programme strength, facilities, and employability categories.
NCI Ireland ranks #182 in Northern Europe and #701-900 in Europe overall, as part of the QS Ranking 2026. The same platform also gives it 4 stars for teaching, 2 stars for research, and 5 stars overall.
The college is a good choice for Indian students looking for industry-aligned IT and Business programs for affordable costs in Europe.
NCI performs exceptionally well for graduate employability. The college holds a 5-star rating for Employability from QS. National College of Ireland grads in high demand to top companies in Ireland.
86% of the Class of 2023 MSc graduates were able to land jobs within a few months of graduating.
National College of Ireland Programs
The National College of Ireland offers a variety of courses across part-time, full-time, UG, PG, certification, and skill development formats. The NCI Ireland Courses cater to the needs of pretty much everyone. Courses can be pursued both online and offline and are available in fields like Business, Computing, IT, Psychology, and Childhood Education, among others.
National College of Ireland Popular Majors
Accounting, Finance, Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, Business Studies, Cybersecurity, Human Resource Management, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Psychological Studies, Childhood Care, and Education are among the popular NCI Ireland courses pursued by students on campus.
National College of Ireland Online Courses
As part of the Springboard+ initiative, the college offers computing courses both part-time and online. These can be pursued from anywhere with a stable internet connection.
3.9(112)12 months - 1 year
Akshad + 429 others got admitted through us.
We can fast-track your application in a week.
438 students got admitted to this university
Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
Yes, Indian students are allowed to change their programme at NCI. To do that, students need to submit a change of course request to International Support with the below information:
- Student ID number
- Date they applied to National College Ireland
- Course they selected on the original application and the reason for choosing the same
- Course they wish to transfer to and reason for transferring
- Confirm registration with immigration
- Completed transfer request form
Students may be transferred to the programme based on availablity of seats and meeting the entry requirements of the new course.
The Master of Science in Data Analytics is awarded by QQI at level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications. Students who successfully complete this course may progress to a major award at level 10 on the NFQ. Check below the tuition fees for Data Analytics courses at NCI.
| Course | Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
| MSc in Data Analytics | EUR 17,000 (INR 19.1 Lakhs) |
| BSc (Hons) Data Science | EUR 14,000 (INR 15.7 Lakhs) |
MS in Cloud Computing at the National College of Ireland is full-time 1 year program. This programme is made to fulfil the ICT sector-specific needs by combining technical skills with innovation principles. The Master of Science in Cloud Computing is awarded by QQI at level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications. As per the first destination survey for the class of 2021, the employment rate for the class of MSc in Cloud Comoputing was 100%.
National College of Ireland Admission 2026
As an Indian student, one can apply directly via the official university website for NCI Ireland Admissions. The college releases country-specific requirements alongside the course-specific ones for you to meet. Students are required to meet both and make sure to submit their application well in advance to the deadlines given below.
National College of Ireland Application Deadline 2026
Admissions for the September 2026 entry at NCI Ireland are now open. Given below are the upcoming deadlines for the same.
| Application Type | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open for Sep 2026 Entry | Nov 24 |
| Application Deadline for Sep 2026 Entry | Jul 1, 2026 |
National College of Ireland Eligibility Criteria
Given below are some general requirements you need to meet as an Indian student.
- Original and English-translated documents of all past studies
- Proof of English proficiency
- CV or Resume
- Passport
- Ireland Student Visa
- Graduation Certificate of recent studies
Undergraduate Requirements
A High School Certificate with an overall 70% or more for all state boards or a recognised International Foundation Course from an Indian institute following a valid Irish or UK syllabus. For direct entry to the second year, you should have completed an Irish or UK-based Higher National Diploma with Distinction and Merit. An IELTS score of 6.5 is needed.
Graduate Requirements
A 2:1 UG degree with a minimum of 60% and no more than 7 backlogs in your entire course is needed. 6.5 in IELTS with no band less than 6.0 for all Business Master's courses and no less than 5.5 for all School of Computing courses is needed.
- Application fees :No Fees
- Type of deadline :Regular
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Yes, NCI Ireland does accept students, even with a gap year. Students may however, have to justify their gap year during the admission process. Gap years are not an issue as long as it not a very big one, and students meet the basic admission requirements for the course they're applying to.
Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors can provide FREE guidance on how to get the application accepted at colleges and universities in Ireland in case of an gap year.
The NCI Ireland admissions process can be completed very easily by following the simple steps mentioned below.
- Register on the official NCI Ireland webiste
- Choose a course
- Check the programme entry requirements for Indian students
- Submit the required documents and language test scores
- Pay the application fee (if asked)
- Submit the application
The university will get back in touch soon with an official admission decision.
NCI Ireland does not take long to get back to students with an decision. Though the exact time can vary depending on what programme is one applying for, and where a student is applying from. It usually takes the college around 3 to 5 working days to get back to students with an admission decision.
Students can get in touch with one of the Shiksha Study Abroad counsellors, who can help guide students with their NCI Ireland application, FREE of cost.
NCINational College of Ireland Scholarships for Indian Students
As an Indian student, there is no shortage of scholarships you can apply to. Most scholarships are available on merit and can help make your student life at NCI easier. The rewards can go as high as EUR 5,000 (INR 5.23 L) or more, in some cases. Given below are some popular National College of Ireland Scholarships for Indian Students.
| Scholarship Type | Scholarship Name | Financial Award | Course Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merit-based | Master's Academic Merit Scholarship | EUR 5,000 (INR 5.23 L) | PG |
| Merit-based | Higher Diploma Scholarship | EUR 4,000 (INR 4.18 L) | Diploma |
| Merit-based | Undergraduate Academic Scholarships | EUR 2,000-EUR 3,000 (INR 2.1 L-INR 3.1 L) per year | UG |
| Merit-based | Early Childhood Education and Care Scholarship | EUR 4,000 (INR 4.2 L) per year | UG |
| Merit-based | Young Future Leaders Programme Scholarship | EUR 3,000 (INR 3.1 L) per year | UG |
| Merit-based | Sports Scholarship | EUR 2,000 (INR 2.1 L) | None |
1 EUR = INR 104.65
How to get a Scholarship at NCI Ireland?
- Have an admission offer from the college
- Should be paying the overseas fee rate
- Not receiving financial aid from other sources
- Minimum 60% in UG Honours degree for the EUR 3,000 scholarship, and Minimum 75% for the EUR 5,000 scholarship
- Awards in notable Sports events (for Athletic Scholarship)
- Demonstrate financial need (for some scholarships)
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
The NCI Ireland Scholarship deadline for the college's 75th anniversary International Student Scholarship (Sep 2026 intake) is now closed. Deadline for other scholarships may vary.
Students are advised to check the official NCI Ireland website to know more.
No, students can apply with an conditional admission offer for a full-time course at the National College of Ireland. However, students need to make sure they meet the conditions mentioned below:
- Be an overseas student
- Meet all entry requirements of the course and scholarship
- Pay the tuition deposit
No, deferring the course at NCI Ireland means students will also have to forfeit their scholarship. They will need to re-apply and be reassessed for any scholarship for the new intake.
Students are recommended to consult the NCI Admissions Office for their specific scholarship conditions.
Yes, Indian students who have reached or with the potential to reach a very high level in athletics at the international, national, inter-provincial or inter-country level in Ireland can apply for the NCI Ireland Sports Scholarship.
The scholarship is worth EUR 2,000 (INR 2.14 Lakhs) and can be taken with any other scholarship.
More information about the same can be obtained from one of the Shiksha Study Abroad counsellors, for free.
1 EUR = INR 107.23
1 yearNCIStudents Ratings & Reviews
105 Verified Reviews- 74% students never faced discrimination in this university
National College of Ireland Job Outcomes
NCI Ireland graduates are of very high demand to top companies in Ireland. Accenture, Bank of Ireland, AIB, and Health Service Executive, are just some of the companies known to recruit graduates as part of the National College of Ireland Placements.
National College of Ireland Placement Rate
Around 86% of the MSc in Management graduates of the Class of 2023 were able to land jobs as part of Placements at NCI Ireland. Given below are some key stats you should know about NCI Ireland.
| Fact | Validation |
|---|---|
| Employed | 86% |
| Seeking Employment | 12% |
| Not Looking | 2% |
ROI After Education
EUR 30,000-EUR 80,000 (INR 31.4 L-INR 83.71 L) is the range of salaries earned by MSc graduates. Given below is how it compares to their investment in tuition costs.
| Course | Tuition (Investment) | Average Salary (Return) |
|---|---|---|
| MSc | EUR 17,000 (INR 17.78 L) | EUR 30,000-EUR 80,000 (INR 31.4 L-INR 83.7 L) |
1 EUR = INR 104.60
Top Recruiters
Commonly asked questions On Placements
Getting on online job search portals, university career services portals, networking with seniors or peers, or joining social media groups.
Sales assistants, cashier, delivery person, graphic designing, and campus tour guides are popular part-time job options for Indian students.
Check out the video below to know more about how you can find part-time jobs in Ireland:
EUR 15-EUR 20 (INR 1.6 K-INR 2.1 K) per hour is the average part-time salary in Ireland. The national work hour wage is EUR 14.50 (INR 1.55 K).
Retail, Call Center Agent, Administration, Tutoring, and Waiters are some popular part-time work options for Indian students in Ireland.
1 EUR = INR 106.99
One can take up casual employment of up to 20 hours part-time per week in term time or up to 40 hours per week during the college vacation periods while studying in Ireland. Students have the option to work across various job roles. Check out Part-Time Work Options in Ireland for International Students
National College of Ireland Cost for Indian Students 2026
The college stands out for its affordability. The National College of Ireland Tuition Fees are EUR 12,000-EUR 14,000 (INR 12.55 L-INR 14.65 L) for UG and Certificate courses and EUR 17,000 (INR 17.8 L) for most PG courses. EUR 13,650 (INR 14.3 L) is what it would cost students to pursue an MBA at NCI Ireland. Apart from the National College of Ireland Fees, students are also advised to keep a budget in place for the cost of living.
Cost of Living in Ireland for Indian Students
Mentioned below is a breakdown of the living costs for Indian students at NCI Ireland:
| Component | Monthly Cost in EUR | Cost in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | EUR 600-EUR 1,200 | INR 62.7 K-INR 1.25 L |
| Utilities | EUR 35-80 | INR 3.6 K-INR 8.3 K |
| Food | EUR 300-EUR 400 | INR 31.3 K-INR 41.8 K |
| Books and Supplies | EUR 75 | INR 7.8 K |
| Mobile Bills | EUR 20 | INR 2.1 K |
| Transportation | EUR 50 | INR 5.2 K |
| Personal Expenses | EUR 200-EUR 300 | INR 20.9 K-INR 31.3 K |
| Total | EUR 1,280-EUR 2,125 | INR 1.34 L-INR 2.22 L |
Source: NCI Ireland
1 EUR = INR 104.65
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
M.Sc.(15 courses) | INR 18 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12 months-1 year Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 - 6.5, TOEFL: 60 - 79, PTE: 50 - 58, Duolingo: 105 - 120 |
MBA/PGDM(9 courses) | INR 18 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 1 year Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 - 6.5, TOEFL: 60 - 79, PTE: 50 - 58, Duolingo: 105 - 120 |
B.E. / B.Tech(2 courses) | INR 15 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 60 & Above, PTE: 50 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
BBA(4 courses) | INR 11 L - 15 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 - 6.5, TOEFL: 60 - 78, PTE: 50 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
PG Diploma(1 course) | INR 13 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 1 year Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 60 & Above, PTE: 50 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
UG Diploma(2 courses) | INR 13 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 1 year Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 60 & Above, PTE: 50 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
B.Ed(1 course) | INR 11 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
B.A.(1 course) | INR 15 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 60 & Above, PTE: 50 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
UG certificate(1 course) | INR 15 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 60 & Above, PTE: 50 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
NCI Ireland initial deposit for Indian students is EUR 6,000 (INR 6.6 Lakhs) to confirm their seat.
Students are advised to check the deposit amount on their admission offer letter as these may vary for some courses. To know more, contact one of our Shiksha Study Abroad counsellors.
The Free Fees Initiative at NCI Ireland is a scheme that covers tuition costs for qualifying students from the UK/EU/EEA regions. Eligible students only need to pay a student contribution fee worth EUR 3,000 and a mandatory gym fee.
Indian students are not eligible for this program.
Yes, Indian students can pay their tuition fees in installments at NCI Ireland. Use the Direct Debit plan to pay 20% of tuition fees upfront and the rest over the duration of course.
Students need to provide a written request to the NCI Ireland Registrar's Office to use a payment plan.
National College of Ireland Notable Alumni
Entertainers, Political Diplomats, Athletes, Researchers, Media Personalities, and Entrepreneurs form the Notable Alumni at National College of Ireland. World Champion Wrestler Sheamus, Public Servant Paul Reid, and former Lord Mayor of Dublin Brendan Carr all pursued their higher studies at NCI Ireland. Given below is some more on them and others to have done the same.
| Name | Known For | Alumnus |
|---|---|---|
| Sheamus |
Irish Professional Wrestler First Irish World Champion in WWE History Pursued a National Diploma and played for the college's Rugby Union Team |
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| Brendan Carr |
Irish Politician Member of the Labour Party Former Lord Mayor of Dublin |
 |
| Paul McAuliffe |
Irish Politician Teachta Dala of the North-West Constituency Pursued a BA in Accounting and HRM |
.jpg/960px-Paul_McAuliffe,_Dec_2024_-_54194132940_(cropped).jpg) |
College comparison
Compare NCI with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 18.21 L - 18.39 L | #701 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 8.3 L - 15.8 L | -/- | |
| INR 15.91 L - 22.5 L | #501 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 0 | #98 QS, 2027 | |
| INR 12.62 L - 16.46 L | #651 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 12.35 L - 16.46 L | #651 QS, 2026 |
CompareNCIStudying in Ireland
Key Facts About Ireland
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
National College of Ireland Campus
NCI offers a vibrant academic environment, full of world-class research facilities, classrooms, lunch areas, athletics, and several dining facilities that cater to all food needs. Students can choose to be part of a student club based on their interests, hang out with friends in the natural green spaces on the weekends, and take part in social and cultural events as part of the NCI Ireland Campus.
National College of Ireland Campus Location
NCI maintains its presence in Dublin, with campuses in Mayor Square and Spencer Dock, both located just 300m away from each other. The National College of Ireland Campus at Mayor Square is the center of all operations at the college.
National College of Ireland Campus Life
- For housing, you would have to look off-campus as the college does not maintain dorms of its own for international students. The college does give you a list of housing portals where you can find housing services that are within your budget near the college campus.
- For dining, several cafes and restaurants serve breakfast, lunch, evening meals, and dinner. Fresh soups, juices, cheese, cereals, pastries, and more.
- The college takes your overall development very seriously and offers all kinds of student support services such as academic guidance, help funding your studies, personality development, disability support, health services, and religious facilities, among others.
Check out the videos below to get a glimpse of what it's like to be at the National College of Ireland campus.
Commonly asked questions On Others
NCI Ireland does not maintain a single, on-campus sports complex. Instead, it offers a well-rounded fitness programme at facilities across Dublin city.
Registered students and members of clubs and societies have easy access to the below facilities:
- Iconic Health Club with Free weights area, group fitness and spinning classes, massage sports therapy centre, steam room, and sauna
- Clontarf Sports Pitches for Football and Rugby
- Gloucester Street Sports centre
- Sportsco Leisure Centre
- Markievicz Lesiure Centre
No, Indian students are not guaranteed housing at NCI Ireland. There is very high competition for rooms on-campus. Rooms are usually allotted on a first-come, first-served fashion. To have a good chance of getting a room, students should apply early for the same.
It is also advisable to look for off-campus housing options in Ireland, in case rooms get filled early.
Indian food is not known to be available at NCI Ireland. However, there are many places nearby that serve Indian food. Some popular ones include.
| Restaurant/Dining Place | Known for | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Govinda's |
| 4 Aungier Street, Dublin |
| Spice N Rice |
| 16, Dorset Street Lower, Rotunda, Dublin |
| Desi Crew Restaurant |
| 27a Richmond Street South, Dublin |
NCI
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered a week ago
Before going for the NCI admissions, Indian students should make sure that they have a min of 55% to 70% in previous academics, an IELTS score of 6.0+ to prove English proficiency and a valid passport.
Indian students can apply with a small application fee of EUR 25 (paid online via the portal).
Look
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Yes, Indian students have to submit the proof of English language proficiency but not necessarily only IELTS. Indian students need an overall IELTS score of 6.0 with no sub-skills lower than 5.5.
For PG courses, the IELTS score requirement is 6.5. Other than IELTS, the tests given below may also be
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Indian students who will need an entry visa for Ireland should apply early for the September intake. The recommended last date for the September intake at NCI is Jul 1, 2026.
The processing of an Irish student visa can take a few weeks so to stick with this timeline is absolutely necessary.
L
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Yes, the popular courses like MSc Data Analytics, Business Analytics or Computing at the National College of Ireland are in high demand and they fill up earlier than the others.
Data and Computing fields are the most sought-after at NCI and to maintain the teaching quality, it has capped the number
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
The National College of Ireland is considered a good and career-focused institution. It is generally known for its strong industry connections, 5-star QS rating for employability and Dublin city as a central location.
As per Shiksha Popularity rankings in 2026, at the country level, NCI is ranked #
M
Contributor-Level 10
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NCILocation
| University City | Dublin, Other - Ireland, Ireland |
| Size of city | Medium |
| Population of City | 5,53,165 |
NCICampuses
Mayor Street Lower, International Financial Services Centre, Dublin, Ireland
Visit official siteNCIContact Information
Mayor Street Lower, International Financial Services Centre, Dublin, Ireland
Dublin ( Other - Ireland)
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