Join a distinctly Irish university, with global impact. UCD undergraduate students benefit from an education delivered by experts at the leading edge of their fields internationally and a curriculum constantly updated by the latest research.

What is unique about this program?

As a college student, you are welcome to study abroad at UCD for a semester or a full-year. The UCD Exchange team will support you before you leave home, when you first arrive and throughout your time at UCD. Their aim is for you to get the most out of your experience academically, culturally and socially. 

You can take up to six modules (classes) per semester at UCD, for a full load of 30 ECTS. Students have access to undergraduate modules available from the following colleges at UCD (subject to capacity and timetabling): Agriculture and Food Science, Arts and Humanities, and Social Sciences (excluding Law). You can register for up to four modules in your subject area and up to two modules from other academic program areas.  You may also take all of your modules within your chosen subject area.

University College Dublin is Ireland’s largest and most richly diversified university. With over 70 student societies, UCD has something for everyone. Being involved in university-life is a great way to make friends and develop your skills. The university experience is all about getting involved and getting active, trying something new, having fun and making some great friends and memories along the way.

What is unique about Dublin?

Dublin is Ireland's largest and most diverse city, and one of the most visited cities in Europe.  While small compared to some global cities (like London or Paris), Dublin is not lacking in history, culture, or intrigue, and offers a vibrant social life.  UCD is a vibrant, modern university of approximately 25,000 students situated on a spacious campus about 3 miles to the south of Dublin city center. It is ranked in the top 1% of the world's universities. UCD offers award-winning facilities and has been ranked Nr. 1 #1 For Research in Ireland (Times Higher Education Ranking, 2016). 

How can I learn more about UCD?

• Browse through course options and information
• Take a 3D tour of the UCD campus
• Find out the top 5 reasons why international students choose Ireland/UCD for their study abroad destination (video)
• For general inquiries, reach out to incoming.exchanges@ucd.ie. 

Academic Calendar

• Academic year: early September - mid-May
• Fall semester: early September - late December
• Spring semester: late January - mid-May

For specific dates, refer to UCD's Academic Calendar

Things to Consider Before Applying

• Review the information on the Education Abroad Office’s Get Started page for important considerations on academics and finances, and a guide to next steps.
• Still have questions?  Visit the Get Advice page and learn how to connect with an Education Abroad Advisors.
• Want to keep up to date with Cornellians Abroad? Follow Education Abroad on social media, @cornelliansabroad

How do I apply?

Applying to study on an exchange program is a two-step process. The Cornell approval process must be completed first, before your Education Abroad advisor in the Office of Global Learning can submit your nomination to the exchange partner.

1. For Cornell approval and nomination, click on the "Apply" button on this webpage. Applications are approved by your college and the Office of Global Learning on a rolling basis until the application deadline listed on this page, or earlier, if the program fills.
2. Once nominated by Cornell, UCD will email you an invitation to apply with application instructions.  At that point, you must complete the external application required for exchange students by UCD's deadline. Nominated exchange students are typically admitted by partners, but you must complete the application process for them to review your application and offer you a place.