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University College Dublin
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University College Dublin Rankings 2026

Map Pin IconDublin, Ireland
Star Icon4.1 /5
Comment Icon97 Student Q&A
Shiksha popularity ranking
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#127 in World

#2 in Ireland

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  • Institute Icon330 acre campus
  • Estd. 1854
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Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 5 Jan '26

UCD dublin
University College Dublin Ranking

#2

Country level
Shiksha Popularity Rank
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World rank by different ranking providers

Shiksha

#127

QS Ranking

#118

THE Ranking

#201

US News Ranking

#245

ARWU Ranking

#301
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Commonly asked questions
On University Evaluation
Q:   What is the ranking of University College Dublin globally?
A: 

University College Dublin is among the top universities in Ireland. UCD is ranked by top ranking authorities all over the world. UCD rankings attract international students the most.

The university is ranked by major ranking agencies that are as follows, take a look -

Ranking Bodies

Rank

U.S. News Best Global Universities 2025

#245

QS World University Rankings 2026

#118

THE World University Rankings 2026

#201 

Shanghai Rankings 2025

#301

Financial Times 2025

#73

Q:   What is the ranking of University College Dublin in comparison to the Dublin City University?
A: 

University College Dublin and Dublin City University both are some of the most esteemed universities in Ireland. The University College Dublin is ranked #125 under “QS World University Rankings 2025”. Dublin City University ranks at #421 under the “QS World University Rankings 2025”. Check the table listed below for University College Dublin and Dublin City University rankings by QS over 5 years:

Year

University College Dublin

Dublin City University

2025

126

421

2024

171

436

2023

181

471

2022

173

490

2021

171

439

Q:   What is the ranking of University College Dublin in comparison to the Maynooth University?
A: 

University College Dublin and Maynooth University both are some of the most prominent universities in Ireland for continuing higher education. The University College Dublin is ranked #118 under “QS World University Rankings 2026”. Maynooth University is ranked at #771 under the category of “QS World University Rankings 2026”.

Also, check the QS ranking for both universities over the past 3 years:

Year

University College Dublin

Maynooth University

2026

118

771

2025

126

801

2024

171

801

UCD dublin
University College Dublin Course Ranking

Showing 3 Courses
#2
Shiksha popularity ranking

MS

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Shiksha

#2

THE

#101

QS

#201

ARWU

#201
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Specializations in MS Program

Physics

Shiksha

#1

ARWU

#201

QS

#251
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Computer Science Engineering

Shiksha

#1

THE

#101
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#2
Shiksha popularity ranking

MBA/PGDM

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Shiksha

#2

FT

#73

QS

#141
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#1
Shiksha popularity ranking

M.Arch

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Shiksha

#1

QS

#151
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US News Icon

University College Dublin US News & World Report Rankings 2025

Ranked by202320242025
Global Universities
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236253245

University College Dublin Vs Other Universities: US News & World Report Comparison

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University College Dublin US News & World Report 2025: Ranking Criteria

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Commonly asked questions
On UCD dublin US News & World Report Ranking
Q:   Where does the University College Dublin rank globally?
A: 

As per U.S. News & World Report, the University College Dublin ranks at #245 under the category of Best Global Universities 2025.

In 2024, UCD was ranked at a worse position that was #253, under the same criteria. The ranking body check many factors while assessing the ranking such as Global Research Reputation, Global Score, Books, Conferences, Total Citations, and more.

Check the table listed below for UCD rankings by U.S. News & World Report:

Ranking Body

2023

2024

2025

US News & World Report

236

253

245

Q:   Does University College Dublin rank better than the Dublin City University?
A: 

The University College Dublin and Dublin City University are some of the best universities in Ireland. According to U.S. News & World Report 2025, UCD ranks at #245 and DCU ranks at #856 under the Best Global Universities. So, University College Dublin ranks better the Dublin City University. 

Check the ranking comparison listed below between UCD and DCU:

University

2025

2024

2023

University College Dublin

245

253

236

Dublin City University

856

861

917

FT Icon

UCD dublin
FT (Financial Times) Ranking 2025

Ranked by202320242025
MBA
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949173
Master in Finance
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– / –5359
Master in Management
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172833
QS Icon

University College Dublin QS Rankings 2026

Ranked by202420252026
Europe7151– / –
World University
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171126118
Accounting and Finance
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101101– / –
Architecture and Built Environment101151– / –
Biological Sciences201201– / –
Communication and Media Studies101101– / –
Engineering and Technology
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216207– / –
Global MBA
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111121141
Law and Legal Studies92101– / –
Masters in Business Analytics354451
Masters in Supply Chain Management121419
Mathematics251251– / –
Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering151201– / –
Medicine167172– / –
Nursing5144– / –
Performing Arts5151– / –
Pharmacy and Pharmacology151201– / –
Physics and Astronomy251251– / –
Politics51101– / –
Sociology101101– / –

University College Dublin Vs Other Universities: QS Comparison

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University College Dublin QS 2025: Ranking Criteria

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Commonly asked questions
On UCD dublin QS Ranking
Q:   What is the QS ranking of University College Dublin?
A: 

The University College Dublin offers a lot of academic programs at UG and PG levels for its students.

When it comes to UCD rankings, it is one of the highest ranked universities all over the world. The University College Dublin ranking has improved from #126 in 2026 to #118 in 2026. 

Also, as compared to last year's ranking, UCD has improved #46 positions. The University is constantly ranked among top 200 universities in the world.

Q:   Which university ranks better in the QS rankings between the University College Dublin and Trinity College Dublin?
A: 

According to QS rankings, Trinity College Dublin ranks better than University College Dublin. UCD is ranked #118 under the “World University Rankings 2026”.

Both universities have their own merits and demerits. Trinity College Dublin is constantly ranked among top 100 universities in the world. Whereas, University College Dublin comes under top 200 universities in the world. Check the ranking table listed below:

University Name

QS World University Ranking 2024

QS World University Ranking 2025

QS World University Ranking 2026

University College Dublin

#171

#126

#118

Trinity College Dublin

#81

#87

#75

THE Icon

University College Dublin THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2026

Ranked by202420252026
University
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201201201
Arts and Humanities176176– / –
Clinical and Health176176– / –
Engineering
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151176– / –
Law101126– / –
Life Sciences201201– / –
PG Business and Economics
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126176– / –
PG Computer Science
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126101– / –
Psychology201176– / –

University College Dublin Vs Other Universities: THE (Times Higher Education) Comparison

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University College Dublin THE (Times Higher Education) 2026: Ranking Criteria

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Commonly asked questions
On UCD dublin THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking
Q:   What is the Times Higher Education rankings of University College Dublin?
A: 

The University College Dublin is among the top universities for higher education in Ireland. According to THE, University College Dublin is constantly ranked at #201 from past 3 years.

Check the ranking comparison between University College Dublin and Maynooth University by Times Higher Education:

University Name

THE University Ranking 2024

THE University Ranking 2025

THE University Ranking 2026

University College Dublin

#201

#201

#201

Q:   What are the criteria used by Times Higher Education for ranking the universities in the world?
A: 

Times Higher Education is among the top ranking publishers all over the world. They consider a large variety of factors when issuing rankings to top universities. Some important parameters are teaching, research environment, quality industry, international outlook and more. 

According to THE, University College Dublin is ranked between #201 under the category of THE World University Rankings 2026. 

Shanghai Ranking Icon

University College Dublin ARWU (Shanghai Rankings) 2026

Ranked by202320242025
Universities
Info Icon
301301301
Law201– / –– / –
Nursing201151101
Physics151151201
Political Sciences101151151
Sociology– / –– / –151

University College Dublin Vs Other Universities: ARWU (Shanghai Rankings) Comparison

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University College Dublin ARWU (Shanghai Rankings) 2025: Ranking Criteria

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UCD dublin
Students Ratings & Reviews

4.1/5
Verified Icon119 Verified ReviewsInfo Icon
Student Views (Based on Reviews)
  • 60% students never faced discrimination in this university
Vibe of Campus
Academically oriented
Friendly
Multi-dimensional
Fun loving
Internships3.6
Part time work3.9
Post study jobs4
Quality of faculty4.4
Student Life4.4
Value for money4
Public transportation4.4
Safety4.4
Indian Food4.1
Permanent Immigration4
A
AnonymousVerified Icon
MA International Political Economy - Batch of 2026
3.7
The university is good for professional growth.
Tips: Getting used to the weather and its unpredictability was something that took me more time getting used to as compared to other aspects such as time zones and classes. There is a strong Indian society as well so festivals are celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm. I mostly rely on cooking as eating out here can become reasonably expensive after a point. Professors are great and my experience so far is going well.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 1750
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro
Reviewed on 15 Jan 2026Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
MA International War Studies - Batch of 2026
3.8
Truly enriching learning experience.
Tips: Great reputation here and very college town vibe as well. Students come here from all across the world and classes can be somewhat experiential as well. Professors are helpful and will almost always take out time to help you out even outside of office hours. I found my first two months really expensive here so learn to budget according to currency conversions especially.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 1650
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro 102175
Reviewed on 15 Jan 2026Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
MSc in Economics and Data Analytics - Batch of 2025
3.6
Great learning experience with strong academics.
Tips: Students should know that UCD offers high-quality academics, great faculty and a vibrant campus life but it is also a very independent environment. You're expected to manage your own deadline, keep up with reading and be proactive about internships, part-time work and networking. The workload can feel heavy at times but the resources, societies and student support services make it manageable if you stay organised. The transition was smooth overall, but there was definitely a cultural shift. Ireland is very welcoming and diverse but the academic style is more self directed and discussion based compared to what I was used to. There's a strong emphasis on critical thinking, participation and independent work. Socially, people are friendly, informal and open, which helped me settle in quickly. I received a Global Scholarship of 3,000. I got it based on my academic profile during the application process. The scholarship amount was applied as an education to my tuition fee which helped ease the financial burden. UCD offers several merit based and programme specific scholarships, so it's worth applying early and submitting a strong application. The course is well structured and industry-relevant, the faculty is supportive and the campus environment is vibrant with plenty of opportunities to grow. Ireland itself is safe student friendly and culturally warm. Some aspects could be challenging, the coursework can be intense part-time job opportunities are limited and finding internships relevant to your field often requires extra effort.
Likes (Public transportation): I rated it 5 because UCD is extremely well connected to the rest of Dublin, and public transport makes computing simple, reliable, and affordable. UCD has one of the strongest transport link among Irish campuses. There are multiple bus routes that stop directly at the campus gate and the internal stop, so getting to the city centre or nearby areas is very straightforward. Buses run frequently throughout the day and even late evening are well covered.
Dislikes (Internships): UCD does provide some support the process is quite self-driven and finding relevant internships especially for international students can be challenging and competitive. UCD has resources like the Careers Network, CV reviews, workshops and job portals but the guidance is mostly general rather than personalised. Students still have to search, network and apply on their own. The support helps you prepare but it does not guarantee internship placements. You need to be proactive, keep checking listings and apply to many roles independent.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 1175
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro 32000
Reviewed on 11 Dec 2025Read more
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A
Apoorva Tyagi Verified Icon
MSc Biotechnology - Batch of 2024
4.3
Amazing faculty and good learning environment.
Tips: They should know how to manage part time jobs and academics. I got a scholarship that waived off my tuition fees to some extent but the living costs in Ireland are too much at this point. I am very grateful for the opportunity that I got. It was challenging but I really enjoyed my degree.
Likes (Quality of faculty): The faculties are just amazing, easy to approach and they are experienced and help you out in every possible way. There are a few Indian faculties as well here but all this doesn’t matter. They all treat you equally and help you with everything whether you miss your exam or any assignments.
Dislikes (Indian Food): There are Indian restaurants but they are quite expensive for a student to afford that 1-2 times a week. I usually used to cook and rarely ate outside which helped me save a lot of money. It takes a lot of your time so for that you can meal prep. Ireland is quite expensive in comparison to other countries.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 2000
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro 34000
Reviewed on 10 Dec 2025Read more
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A
Albin Thankachan Verified Icon
MSc Information Systems - Batch of 2026
4.7
One of the best research oriented universities in EU.
Tips: Students should be aware of the content of the course and the job opportunities in the EU post studying the course. The fee is high compared to the colleges in Ireland, but scholarships like the Global Excellence Scholarship and institutional fee waiver are available for international students from India.
Likes (Value for money): The course is of the best quality and aligns with the career path post study. The university offers many facilities including such as a free gym and accommodation support. The campus is very large and it is situated in a place with 24hrs bus connectivity to Dublin city.
Dislikes (Post study jobs): The job roles in Ireland are in decline. UCD doesn't provide placement drives, but it holds a career fair for graduate roles where mostly EU residents are selected and not so good for students with prior experience. Even though the course offers career oriented learning, the lack of direct placement is often a drawback.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 800
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro 35000
Reviewed on 4 Dec 2025Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
MSc Finance - Batch of 2026
3.8
Good environment and good experience.
Tips: Communication plays a vital role here. The ability to adapt to the weather and food blending with the people from different backgrounds. There is no scholarship for my course. I'm satisfied with the syllabus but felt the teaching is fast as it is a one year course.
Likes (Student Life): International exposure and campus life are good. There are so many clubs in the college that conduct events regularly which allow students to get exposure and learn from peers. Mostly my time would be spent in classes and projects and the frequency of attending club events is rare for me since I'm occupied with academic work.
Dislikes (Post study jobs): Many companies across different sectors offer employment sponsorship. Referral works here to enter the industry. Not sure for the freshers. People with a minimum of two years of relatively experience can break into graduation roles before graduation. Getting an internship is also great for breaking into the sector.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 1000
Prepping time for classes20 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro 30125
Reviewed on 4 Dec 2025Read more
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UCD dublin

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

How long does it take for UCD to send out a decision?

Answered 3 weeks ago

Once you have submitted the University College Dublin application, the university tries to send out an application decision really fast. Typically, they notify the students within 2 to 6 weeks. 

For some of the more competitive programs, this wait time might be longer. To make sure that you get the d

...Read more

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Loveleen Sharma

Contributor-Level 10

Can I submit my CBSE English scores to get into University College Dublin?

Answered 3 weeks ago

Yes, as an Indian student, if you have scored above 80% then you can submit these scores. Given that these scores are awarded by any of these bodies - CBSE, AISSCE, CUSCE or ISC. 

The students won't even have to take IELTS or TOEFL for UCD if the given English language requirements are met. 

V

Virajita Bisht

Contributor-Level 9

Where can I check my UCD application status?

Answered 3 weeks ago

Indian students can check the UCD application status after they have submitted the whole application successfully on the application portal. Look at the pointers given below - 

  • The students can track their applications by logging into the application account.
  • Also, if there is any change in the applic

...Read more

B

Bhumika Vimal

Contributor-Level 9

Is it difficult to apply for University College Dublin?

Answered 3 weeks ago

Not at all, it is very easy to apply to University College Dublin. Indian students can start applying via the official admission potal of this university and then follow the UCD process given below - 

International students are required to follow the below University College Dublin admission process

...Read more

K

Kanika Pandey

Contributor-Level 9

What is the average salary of University College Dublin graduates?

Answered 3 weeks ago

University College Dublin placement rate stands at 81.8%, and the graduates are employed within few months of graduation
The average salary of UCD graduate is around GBP 24,000 – GBP 39,000 (INR 25.35 L - INR 41.20 L), annually. The university graduates are highly skilled in the following-

  • Communicati

...Read more

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Ishita Kalra

Contributor-Level 10

About the author

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Loveleen Sharma

Study Abroad Expert

Loveleen is a seasoned content writer with 4+ years of experience, currently writing for Shiksha. When he is not writing and helping students, he can be found at the movies, reading fiction, and learning a new language.
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UCD dublin
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UCD dublin
Location

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University CityDublin, Other - Ireland, Ireland
Size of cityMedium
Population of City5,53,165

UCD dublin
Contact Information

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Address

Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
Dublin ( Other - Ireland)

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Phone
+353 1 716 8500

(For general query)

+353 1 716 7777

(For admission query)

Email
international@ucd.ie

(For general query)

india@ucd.ie

(For admission query)

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