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Non-EU Students
Advanced Entry to Undergraduate Programmes

Advanced entry allows eligible students to begin their undergraduate studies at SETU beyond Year 1 - typically at Stage 2, 3, or 4 of a programme.

Programme Structure

  • All SETU undergraduate programmes are structured in stages, each worth 60 ECTS credits.
  • One stage = two semesters (12 weeks each).
  • Ordinary Bachelor Degrees (Level 7) = 3 stages (3 academic years)
  • Honours Bachelor Degrees (Level 8) = 4 stages (4 academic years)

Note: Some Level 8 programmes are only 3 years long — advanced entry is not typically available for these.

 

How to apply for Advanced Entry

There are two pathways to apply:

  1. Via a SETU Partner Institution 
    If you're studying at one of our partner universities, you may be eligible for advanced entry through a mapped pathway. These pathways ensure a smooth transition between institutions with aligned academic content.
  2. Via Credit Transfer from Another University 
    If you're studying at a recognized university (home or overseas), you can apply based on completed credits. You’ll need to submit detailed academic content (e.g. transcripts, syllabi) for review. SETU Global Admissions will assess your application with faculty to determine if your previous studies align with the SETU programme.

Important:
Applications not from partner institutions are reviewed case-by-case. If your previous studies do not match SETU’s curriculum closely enough, you may be offered entry at an earlier stage.

 

Higher Diploma Programmes

SETU Carlow offers a select number of Higher Diploma programmes - ideal for students seeking to change academic direction.

  • Duration: 1 academic year
  • Level: Level 8 on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications
  • Type: Conversion programmes — allowing students to gain a qualification in a new subject area.

Entry requirements

To apply, you must:

  • Hold a Level 8 qualification (in any subject)
  • Demonstrate a strong connection to the new subject (e.g. work experience, certifications, prior study)

Progression Masters

If you apply for a Level 9 Master’s programme but don’t meet the entry criteria, you may be offered a place on a Higher Diploma instead. Upon successful completion, you may progress to the Master’s programme originally applied for.