Winner of the
University of the Year
Times Higher Education Awards (2024)
Why Ulster University?
Founded in 1845, Ulster University is an internationally recognised university with a strong heritage of academic excellence, innovation and widening access to education.
At Ulster University, we don’t just educate – we empower. Our students become part of a supportive community, where learning is applied to the real world and ambition is encouraged. From modern campuses to global opportunities, we are committed to helping you thrive – personally, professionally and academically.
Five reasons to study in Northern Ireland
There are many good reasons why Republic of Ireland students are choosing Northern Ireland for university. Here are just five.
GUARANTEED ACCOMMODATION
Forget the annual scramble for accommodation! We are the only large-scale university in Ireland to guarantee on-campus accommodation* if you make Ulster your Firm Choice on your UCAS application and apply for accommodation by 7 July.
SAVE €10,000 IN ACCOMMODATION FEES
Save a whopping €3,438† per year in Ulster University accommodation compared with the lowest-cost student accommodation available in Dublin. That’s more than €10,000 across a three-year degree programme!
SAVE €4,500 IN COST OF LIVING
Northern Ireland is the most affordable region in the UK1 and Ireland, and you can save €1,500 per year in living costs compared with typical student costs in Dublin.2 That’s €4,500 across a three-year degree programme!
NO CAO POINTS RACE
If you meet the entry requirements outlined on the individual programme pages on our website, you are guaranteed a place on the programme, regardless of how many people apply or whether other applicants achieve higher results than you.
STUDY NOW, PAY LATER
Take the stress out of university by making the most of a Tuition Fee Loan. You only start paying this back once you graduate and earn a salary of over £26,900, allowing you to focus on your studies without worrying about the fees.
* On some campuses, depending on demand for accommodation, students whose home address is within 20 miles of the campus may not qualify for guaranteed accommodation.
† Cost difference between Ulster University’s Duncreggan Student Village and UCD’s Glenomena Residence, based on a 37-week contract across a three-year degree programme.
1 Save the Student, National Student Money Survey 2024.
2 Numbeo, October 2025. Calculated using Numbeo’s “Cost of Living Comparison Between Belfast and Dublin,” including utilities, mobile, internet, transport and grocery price differentials, based on the latest available data. Calculated for a nine-month academic year using a conversion rate of £1 = €1.15.
Campus Locations
With campuses in three rich and exciting locations across Northern Ireland, studying at Ulster University offers a giant adventure and unrivalled student experience for Republic of Ireland students wishing to stay and study on the island of Ireland while keeping costs low and affordable.
Before Applying
Read our essential articles before making an application.
Citizenship
Right to Study in the UK
Your Citizenship and Residency status will determine your eligibility to study in the UK and your tuition fees.
Entry Requirements
Ireland Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Leaving Certificate and Post-Leaving Certificate students.
Fees and Finance
Fees and Finance
How much does it cost to study in Northern Ireland? What finance is available?
UCAS Application
How to Apply
All you need to know about submitting your UCAS application and applying to Ulster University.
Open Days
Open Days
Register for our September Open Days and discover the exciting opportunties available at Ulster University.
Sport
Talented Athlete Entry Scheme
Compete at a high level? Our Talented Athlete Entry Scheme offers eligible athletes reduced entry requirements alongside support to continue excelling in their sport.
After Applying
What happens after you apply to Ulster University?
UCAS Application
Receiving and Replying to Offers
What happens after you apply through UCAS? Find out what you need to do once you start receiving decisions on your applicaiton.
Fees and Finance
Student Finance
Student Finance covers the cost of tuition fees. This article explains the application process.
Accommodation
Affordable accommodation options and the application process. Secure guaranteed accommodation before 7 July.
Students' Union
Societies
Find your people. With over 70 student-led societies, there are plenty of ways to meet new friends, try something new and make university life your own.
Sport
Sports Clubs
Find your team. From Gaelic Games and soccer to rugby, athletics and more, join a sports club to compete, stay active and make new friends at Ulster.
Contact Us
Our Student Recruitment Team are here to help.
Contact Us
Ask Us Anything
Have a question? Submit it via this form and our Student Recruitment Team will answer shortly.
Contact Us
Contacts for Guidance Counsellors
Guidance Counsellors have a dedicated contact at Ulster University for queries relating to admissions and student recruitment. Get in touch with us.
