Overhead mage of students studying together at a round table

Information for Students

Overview

This page contains information for students and applicants about starting your Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree journey.

We also have an FAQ page and a separate page on Student Financial Support. If you can’t find the information you are looking for, contact your local Tertiary Manager who will be more than happy to help you out!

Tertiary Degrees 101

A Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree is a new way to get an undergraduate degree at Level 7 or Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). Education and Training Boards (ETBs) have partnered with Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to co-design and co-deliver degrees.

You start studying in your local further education and training centre, then seamlessly progress, usually in your second or third year of study, to a HEI campus.

Tertiary Bachelor’s Degrees have a different entry process, but in the end, students graduate from the HEI with the same degree as everyone else.

There are many unique features that make Tertiary Bachelor’s Degrees a great option, including smaller class sizes, the dual benefits of both campuses, and no points race for entry.

A Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree is currently the only guaranteed pathway from further education to higher education in Ireland, making an undergraduate degree more accessible for more people.

Unique Features

No Leaving Certificate points system

Entry requirements for Tertiary Bachelor’s Degrees are never based on a points system. Instead, we have tailored entry requirements to what you will really need to succeed for each Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree. Sometimes that means certain subject requirements, or applying with a portfolio, or even an interview. Entry requirements are different for each degree, so check the course page to be sure.

Student Financial Support

There are no tuition or student contribution fees at the ETB level. Students can apply for the SUSI FE grants throughout aTertiary Bachelor’s Degree, including while studying at ETB campus. Full details of student financial support.

Embedded Awards

The Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree pathways are designed to support academic success despite challenges that may arise. However, if a student has to leave the programme before completing the final year, Tertiary Bachelor’s Degrees include embedded awards. Embedded awards formally recognise learning achieved during time in the programme. The embedded awards vary for each course, so check the individual course page for the Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree you’re interested in.

Local Start

Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree are offered by 16 ETBs, partnering with 13 HEIs. As the initiative continues to grow, new locations will be added every year.

This means students can begin their studies locally, with guaranteed progression to a partner HEI. For many students, this means being able to start their undergraduate journey closer to home, reducing the need to relocate immediately. This can help ease the transition to higher education, providing greater flexibility and reducing some of the personal and financial pressures often associated with the first year of study.

Seamless Progression

A Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree offers a seamless pathway from further education with the ETB to higher education with a partner HEI, all through a single application process. There is a guaranteed progression into your undergraduate degree, subject to successfully achieving the progression requirements. Throughout their studies at ETB level, students are supported in preparing for the transition to higher education through HEI visits, guest lectures, and engagement with HEI staff and facilities. This helps students build confidence, become familiar with the higher education environment, and gain a clear understanding of what to expect as they progress to the next stage of their studies. The progression requirements vary for each course, so check the individual course page for the Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree pathway that you are interested in.

Dual Benefits

Students can access the services and supports of both the ETB and the HEI throughout a Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree. This includes libraries, sports facilities, and academic, health and well-being supports.

You will have a student card for both the ETB and the HEI from the first day of your degree.

Dream Degree to Dream Career

All new Tertiary Bachelor’s Degrees are designed around gaps in the Irish job market. We want passionate students to sign up for a qualification, knowing there are many job opportunities waiting for you on the other end.

How to Apply

Find the Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree you are interested in on our Courses page. The individual course page will have all the entry requirements (they are different for each Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree).

View all courses

Tertiary Bachelor’s Degrees Application Process

Application submitted via NTO.ie
Request for additional applicant details or supporting documents issued if required
Invitation for applicant to attend interview/engagement
Provisional offer issued
Applicant confirmation of acceptance of provisional offer
Final confirmed offer issued

Student Resources

NTO Flier (PDF)
Flier is developed for students and potential applicants and includes key features as well as links to relevant website information pages.
Tertiary Application Timeline (PDF)
To inform students and guidance professionals of the Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree application timeline.
Applicants Guidelines: How to write a personal statement, How to prepare for an interview (PDF)
To assist students with the Tertiary Bachelor’s Degree Application
Migrant Eligibility for FET
Guidelines for non-Irish students for FET participation
NTO Video
Presents key features of the Tertiary Bachelor’s Degrees in a short information graphic video.

Any Questions?

Tertiary Bachelor’s Degrees are new, and you might have some questions, we have answered our most common FAQ here.

Alternatively, if you want to talk to someone who can guide you through the process and answer any additional questions, your local Tertiary Manager will be happy to hear from you. Their contact details are listed below: