Leaving Certificate Points for Midwifery in Ireland: What You Need

Admission to undergraduate midwifery programs in Ireland is competitive and based on the Leaving Certificate points system (CAO). Requirements vary by institution, but here's the general landscape for 2023/2024 entry.

Typical Points Range

Most universities require 340–500+ points (out of 625). Recent cutoffs:

• Trinity College Dublin (TCD): ~480–520
• University College Cork (UCC): ~460–500
• University of Galway (NUIG): ~440–480
• University of Limerick (UL): ~420–460
• Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT): ~380–420
• Atlantic Technological University (ATU) – Galway/Mayo: ~340–380

Subject Requirements (Minimum Entry Standards)

All programs require:

• English/Irish: O6/H7
• Mathematics: O6/H7 (some require O4/H7)
• Lab Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Physics/Chemistry, or Agricultural Science): O6/H7
• Two other recognized subjects: O6/H7

Biology is strongly recommended; some institutions require it specifically or a second lab science.

Additional Requirements

• HPAT: Not required for midwifery (unlike medicine).
• Garda Vetting: Mandatory for all successful applicants.
• Health Screening: Vaccinations, TB screening, etc.
• Mature Applicants (23+): Assessed on education, experience, and interview; different points scale.
• Further Education (QQI/FETAC) Applicants: Specific Level 5/6 awards (e.g., Nursing Studies 5M4349) with distinctions required; ranked by QQI score, not Leaving Cert points.

Key Advice

1. Check the CAO Handbook and each university's website for current year requirements.
2. Maximize points: Take Higher Level in strong subjects; consider the 25 bonus points for H1–H6 Higher Level Mathematics.
3. Gain relevant experience (care work, volunteering) for interviews/personal statements.
4. Apply via CAO (cao.ie) by February 1 (normal deadline).

Midwifery is a rewarding but demanding profession; entry standards reflect the academic and personal resilience required.