Qualifications in England and Ireland vary. However, there are common points across the two regions. The two countries have a mutual agreement which aligns qualifications in the UK and Ireland. Qualifications can cross boundaries.<\/p>\n
The GCE advanced level exam (A levels) is the main secondary-school leaving qualification in England.<\/p>\n
The Leaving Certificate is the main secondary-school leaving qualification in Ireland.<\/p>\n
Benchmarking undertaken by UCAS and the Irish authorities, has seen the Irish Higher Leaving Certificate being established as, the equivalent to two-thirds of an A level for the purposes of entry to higher education in the UK.<\/p>\n
The International Foundation Year is recognised as an equivalent standard to the A\u2013 Levels for University admission purposes, however, the programme is delivered just over 7-9 months, rather than 2 years for A-Levels.<\/p>\n
Similar to the A-Levels, you will study three academic modules relevant to your study plan, in addition to English for Academic Purposes.<\/p>\n
| Qualification<\/th>\n | Ireland (*NFQ level)<\/th>\n | England (*FHEQ level)<\/th>\n | *EQF Level<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doctoral degrees<\/td>\n | 10<\/td>\n | 8<\/td>\n | 8<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Master\u2019s degree \nPostgraduate diploma \nPostgraduate certificate<\/td>\n | 9<\/td>\n | 7<\/td>\n | 7<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Bachelor\u2019s degree with honours<\/td>\n | 8<\/td>\n | 6<\/td>\n | 6<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Bachelor\u2019s degree (ordinary)<\/td>\n | 7<\/td>\n | 6<\/td>\n | <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| Higher cert\/diplomas<\/td>\n | 6<\/td>\n | 5<\/td>\n | 5<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n *NFQ<\/strong><\/p>\n The National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) is a system of ten levels. Each level is based on nationally agreed standards of knowledge, skill and competence. These standards help define what an individual is expected to know, understand and be able to do following successful completion of their study.<\/p>\n *FHEQ<\/strong><\/p>\n The Framework for Higher Education Qualifications is the qualifications framework used across the UK, that defines the levels and values of different qualifications.<\/p>\n *EQF<\/strong><\/p>\n The European Qualifications Framework (EQF) is a European-wide qualifications framework which joins the qualifications of different EU members together. In a way, it is a translation of different national qualifications which makes qualifications in different EU countries easier to understand.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n London:<\/strong> has more universities than any other European city boasting the likes of St Georges\u2019s University and the University of East London. London is wildly recognised as an international city and as an international student you would fit in perfectly.<\/p>\n Manchester:<\/strong> the capital of the north of England, is home to the well renowned University of Manchester. This vibrant young city is known for its love of sport and music as well as its immersive cultural and historic learnings. Manchester is home to the renowned Manchester United football club.<\/p>\n Dublin: <\/strong>just like London has it all for someone looking for an international experience while studying abroad; lifestyle, diversity and its own unique culture, making it a true learning experience. It is Ireland\u2019s largest city and the most diverse, with a vast number of cafes, restaurants, social clubs, historical sites and museums. You just have to take a walk across the famous Ha\u2019Penny Bridge and wander around Temple Bar! \u00a0It is also home of Dublin City University, Dublin Institute of Technology and the Royal College of Surgeons (RSCI).<\/p>\n Cork: <\/strong>sits in the southwest region of Ireland on the banks of the River Lee and just like Dublin and London it is home to numerous international students and University College Cork. Cork will not be found wanting for its international arts, cafes, restaurants, markets and boutiques. A must do is a trip out to kiss the Blarney stone to be forever blessed with the gift of the gab.<\/p>\n Galway: <\/strong>known as the home of the Tribesmen is located on the west coast. Galway hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year and is the festival capital of Ireland. The National University of Ireland is a popular study abroad destination as it epitomises modern and historic architecture, as is the Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology. Galway is one of largest cities in Ireland and International students make up 13% of the population.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n England<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n As well as its sporting powers, England has made significant contributions to literature and cinema, such as Shakespeare and giving the world Harry Potter and James Bond. The Beatles and Rolling Stones also hail from England. Spending time in England is a learning experience.<\/p>\n In daily life, the English are famous for their dry and sarcastic humour and this can take a bit of getting used to, but before you know it you\u2019ll fit right in.<\/p>\n Ireland<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n The Emerald Isle of Ireland is like England in many ways but is internationally recognised for having its own distinct culture and history, speaking of which, one memory you will never forget will be experiencing first hand St. Patricks day in Ireland. Ireland is also an explorer\u2019s paradise with its magnificent landscapes and scenery.<\/p>\n Fees and living costs in Dublin are around 35-40% less than in London.<\/p>\n An Average Year in Dublin or London<\/strong><\/p>\n |