- Desire2Study
- Jun 29
- 9 min read
This article compares your options to study medicine in Ireland, including available medical universities, entry requirements, and competition for places. We’ll also explore alternative study medicine abroad options across the best medical universities in Europe, where English-taught programs can help you in getting a Doctor of Medicine (MD) internationally recognized degrees.
Table of Contents
Why Study Medicine in Ireland?
For Irish students, Ireland is often the first choice due to the high quality of education, established institutions, internationally recognized degrees and obviously it is their home country. Medical schools in Ireland offer strong academic foundations and clinical experience, with students gaining access to some of the best hospitals and teaching facilities in the country. The healthcare system in Ireland is also closely integrated with medical training, ensuring practical exposure throughout the degree.
Irish medical universities are globally respected, and a medical degree from Ireland opens up opportunities to work not only in Ireland but also internationally, particularly in the EU and other English-speaking countries. Students also benefit from staying close to home, avoiding the challenges of relocating abroad, while maintaining support networks and familiar surroundings.
The courses are typically 5–6 years in duration for undergraduate entry, with shorter options available for graduate entry applicants. Irish medical schools uphold rigorous academic standards, and students are expected to demonstrate a strong background in science, dedication to the profession, and excellent communication skills.
While studying medicine in Ireland remains a top goal for many, it is important to understand the competition and limitations of available places, which leads many students to take a gap year or to consider alternative med schools abroad.
Medical Schools in Ireland – Entry Requirements
Ireland has six main medical schools where you can study medicine: University College Dublin (UCD), Trinity College Dublin (TCD), Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), University College Cork (UCC), University of Limerick (UL), and National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG). Each of these institutions has competitive admission processes that differ slightly depending on whether you are entering straight from secondary school or through graduate entry.
Undergraduate applicants must apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO) system and take the HPAT (Health Professions Admission Test). Required Leaving Certificate results are usually in the range of 550–600 points, making it one of the most competitive fields in Ireland.
Graduate applicants typically need a primary degree (often in science), a strong academic track record, and competitive GAMSAT (Graduate Medical School Admissions Test) scores. Graduate entry medicine in Ireland is a growing route for those who either didn’t pursue medicine at undergraduate level or were not successful initially.
The requirements also include interviews and personal statements, which evaluate the candidate's motivation and understanding of a medical career. Medical schools in Ireland seek students with not only academic excellence but also compassion, communication skills, and resilience.
Graduate Entry Medicine in Ireland – What You Need to Know
Graduate medicine in Ireland is a four-year intensive program offered by schools like UL, UCD, RCSI, and UCC. It is designed for students who have completed a primary degree and meet the required GAMSAT scores. Entry to these programs is just as competitive, if not more, than undergraduate entry.
The Ireland graduate entry medicine option allows those who may not have taken science subjects during their Leaving Cert to return to study medicine later. However, most successful applicants still have a scientific background, as it is a demanding and fast-paced curriculum.
GAMSAT preparation is essential, with students often dedicating several months to study. The test assesses reasoning in humanities, social sciences, and biological and physical sciences. High scores are required due to limited seats.
Medicine graduate entry in Ireland offers an excellent opportunity for mature and career-changing students, but the cost and intensity should be considered. These programs are often fee-paying, and places are limited, meaning many applicants explore other options abroad.
How Competitive Is It to Get into Medicine in Ireland?
The demand for medical places in Ireland far outweighs the supply. Thousands of students apply each year, but only a few hundred places are available. For undergraduate entry, HPAT performance and Leaving Certificate points are crucial. For example, RCSI and TCD often require over 580 CAO points, alongside high HPAT scores.
Similarly, the competition for graduate medicine in Ireland is steep. GAMSAT scores above 60–65 are often necessary to be considered for interviews. With limited spots per institution, even well-qualified applicants may not secure a place.
Due to this intense competition, many capable students find themselves without a medical offer despite excellent academic records. This has led to a growing number of Irish students looking into international medical programs.
The limited intake also impacts students who decide later in their academic journey to pursue medicine, as the graduate route has very few places and high fees. Alternative medical schools abroad offer more flexible entry pathways and wider access.
Challenges Irish Students Face When Applying for Medicine
One of the biggest challenges is the reliance on the HPAT and CAO system, which adds pressure on Leaving Cert students. A strong academic performance may not be enough without an equally strong HPAT result. Preparing for both simultaneously can be overwhelming.
Graduate applicants face similar obstacles with the GAMSAT, which demands intensive preparation while managing full-time study or work. Limited seat availability and high tuition fees for non-EU students further complicate the process.
There’s also the issue of unclear pathways if you don’t succeed in gaining entry. Unlike in other countries, Ireland has few foundation or pre-med programs for reapplying students.
These barriers often delay the start of medical education, or prevent it entirely. That’s why an increasing number of Irish students are exploring alternatives, particularly in Europe, where more seats and more flexible admissions offer realistic opportunities.
Alternatives to Studying Medicine in Ireland
For Irish students seeking a medical career but facing obstacles at home, studying abroad can be an ideal solution. Countries across Europe offer fully accredited medical programs taught in English, often with less competitive entry requirements.
These alternatives include universities in Czechia, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Latvia, Lithuania, Cyprus and Germany. Entry is usually based on secondary school grades, entrance exams (in some cases), and sometimes interviews.
Programs typically follow the European MD format and last 6 years. These degrees are recognized throughout the EU and by most international medical councils, including the Medical Council of Ireland upon graduation.
Many students who study medicine abroad go on to return to Ireland for internships (internship requirements is depended on the graduation country) and postgraduate training, or work in other EU countries.
The process is increasingly popular as more Irish students realize they don’t have to compromise their dreams due to limited local options.
Internship Requirements After Studying Medicine: Ireland vs. Abroad
One important factor to consider when planning your medical education is what happens after you graduate — specifically, whether you must complete an internship before becoming fully licensed. In Ireland, all medical graduates must complete a 12-month supervised internship before progressing to full registration with the Irish Medical Council. This applies whether you studied medicine in Ireland or in another country like the UK. So even if you attend a UK university, you’ll still need to apply for and complete this internship in Ireland to work as a doctor.
The same internship requirement applies to graduates from a few EU countries, including Poland and Lithuania. In these cases, even though your degree is recognized, the internship is not fully integrated into the course, the same as Ireland or the UK As a result, you’ll still need to complete the 12-month internship in Ireland before moving forward.
However, there are several medical schools in Europe where the internship component is already included as part of the medical degree — and these are accepted by the Irish Medical Council. Countries such as Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Latvia, Hungary, Cyprus, and even Germany offer English-taught medical programs that include a recognized internship or practical training component. Graduates from these universities often do not need to repeat the internship year in Ireland, which can save both time and effort when transitioning into medical practice at home.
When exploring where to study medicine in Europe, it’s crucial to understand whether your chosen program includes a recognized internship. At Desire2Study, we guide Irish students toward medical schools where the path to registration in Ireland is smoother, and the internship is fully built into the degree.
Why Study Medicine Abroad – Pros and Cons
Studying medicine abroad offers several advantages. Firstly, access: many European universities have more seats available and place less emphasis on high-stakes exams like the HPAT or GAMSAT. This makes it easier for dedicated students to begin their medical training.
Secondly, the language of instruction is English in many institutions, especially in Eastern and Central Europe. This means you won’t have to learn a new language to study or practice medicine in most cases.
Medical school tuition fees vary, starting from €12 000, with some programs being more affordable than Irish private tuition fees. Living costs in cities like Kosice, Ostrava, Riga, or Pecs are often significantly lower than Dublin or Cork.
However, challenges include being away from home, cultural differences, and the need to navigate unfamiliar systems. That said, with the right support and preparation, many Irish students thrive in these environments and return home as skilled, confident doctors.
Top Medical Schools in Europe in English
Many respected universities in Europe now offer medicine entirely in English. These include:
Pavol Jozef Safarik University (Slovakia)
Riga Stradiņs University (Latvia)
University of Ostrava (Czechia)
Palacky University (Czechia)
University of Pecs (Hungary)
University of Nicosia (Cyprus)
UMCH (Germany)
Poznan University of Medical Sciences (Poland)
Medical University of Bialystok (Poland)
Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (Lithuania)
These medical schools in Europe are recognized by the World Directory of Medical Schools, and their programs meet EU training standards. Graduates can work anywhere within the EU without additional exams (pending local internship completion).
Ireland medicine universities do not have international branches in Europe, but many European universities welcome Irish students through education consultants like Desire2Study.
Each year, hundreds of Irish students enroll in medical schools abroad, thanks to the transparency of the application process, globally recognized degrees and high teaching standards.
How Desire2Study Helps Irish Students Study Medicine in Europe
Desire2Study is Europe’s most specialized agency for medicine, veterinary, and dentistry studies abroad – though this guide focuses only on medicine. We help Irish and international students in the the complex process of applying to medical universities in Europe.
We support students from the initial consultation to university selection, document preparation, entrance exams, interviews (if required), and relocation. Our expertise lies in finding the best fit for each student – whether you’re a recent Leaving Cert graduate or a graduate-entry applicant.
We work only with accredited, recognized universities where degrees are valid in Ireland and across the EU. We also offer visa support, ongoing assistance to make sure you settle in and legalize your stay in the new country.
For Irish students considering alternatives to the extremely competitive medical schools in Ireland, we provide a clear, reliable path to a medical career.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about studying medicine in Ireland and abroad
Is it easier to get into medical schools in Europe than in Ireland?
Yes. Many medical schools in Europe have more flexible admissions, without HPAT or GAMSAT requirements.
Are medical degrees from Europe recognized in Ireland?
Yes, if the university is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools and follows EU directives.
How do I apply to study medicine abroad?
Through Desire2Study – we assist Irish and international students step by step, ensuring a smooth, complete and successful application. Last year 100% of our applicants to med school secured the place in a university.
What are the best countries to study medicine in Europe?
Hungary, Czechia, Slovakia, Germany, Cyprus, and Latvia are among the best countries to study medicine abroad for Irish students as when you graduate and wish to practice in Ireland, you don't need to do internship.
Are there English speaking medical schools in Europe?
Yes. All our partner universities offer medical degrees in English.
Is it possible to study medicine in Europe without learning a new language?
Yes. Many universities teach entirely in English, though some local language learning is encouraged for clinical years.
Can I return to Ireland to work after studying medicine abroad?
Yes, most Irish students return after completing their degree and internship abroad.
Do medical colleges in Ireland accept transfer students from Europe?
Generally no, Irish medical colleges rarely accept transfer students.
Do medical schools in Europe accept medical transfer students?
Yes, some European schools accept transfer students.
How do I fund studying medicine abroad?
Costs vary, starting from €12 000, but many European universities are more affordable than Irish private options. Student loans or family funding are common.
When should I start preparing to study medicine abroad?
As early as possible. We recommend starting 6–12 months in advance of your desired start date.
Do You Need Help to Study Medicine in Europe?
Desire2Study is Europe’s most experienced medical study abroad agency, specializing in medicine, veterinary, and health sciences helping medical applicants to apply to the European Medical Universities.
