Your Future Starts Here - Study at American College Dublin
Located on a historic campus in the heart of Dublin, American College Dublin blends the best of Irish and American higher education. The college follows a holistic liberal arts model, offering students a personalized and well-rounded academic experience in an intimate setting. Dublin itself is a young, vibrant city with a large student population – and home to the European headquarters of numerous multinational companies, giving you outstanding professional opportunities alongside your studies. Your dream semester in Dublin is closer than you think.
About American College Dublin
Located on historic Merrion Square in central Dublin, American College Dublin (ACD) offers exceptional undergraduate and graduate programs in liberal arts, performing arts, creative writing, international business, accounting and finance, hospitality, and event management.
Founded in 1993 as a not-for-profit educational trust by Lynn University (Florida, USA), ACD has evolved from a study abroad campus into a truly international institution, now welcoming students from over 35 nationalities.
Since its founding, ACD has established itself as a respected liberal arts college in Ireland. Student numbers have grown from just a few to hundreds, with a thriving alumni network that continues to grow year after year.
Address
AMERICAN COLLEGE DUBLIN,
1 Merrion Square,
Dublin 2
Accreditation:
- accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- QQI (Quality and Qualifications Ireland)
Credits & Grading
American college Dublin : Credits & Grading
American College Dublin grants credits directly as either ECTS. Each course is worth 3-6 ECTS. You may choose between 3 and 6 courses per semester, which amount to 18–36 ECTS.
Application Instructions
Apply to study abroad in Dublin at the American College Dublin
DOCUMENTS
Get the required documents (see list below)
APPLICATION
Fill out and submit the online application form together with the required documents.
CONFIRMATION
You’ll get a confirmation of your study placement within one week, at best as quickly as in one day.
- When you apply for two semesters: 100 EUR discount on the second semester
- Get access to comprehensive information materials such as a Beyond Abroad Guide and an interactive orientation webinar after you apply
INSTRUCTIONS
- Scan all the required documents (1–2) to your computer.
- Finally, fill out the online application form below and submit it with all the documents.
Uploading and submitting the attachments
- Please upload the attachments in PDF format.
- If possible, please submit all the attachments together with the application. If you’re missing some attachment(s) when you first apply, you can later send the missing document(s). However, please note that we won’t process applications without any attachments whatsoever.
- All attachments must be sent to us by the application deadline at the very latest, preferably as soon as possible.
- You can submit all the documents electronically. Please don’t send anything via regular mail.
- There is a late application fee for applications or attachments submitted after the application deadline.
Confirmation
You’ll get a confirmation of your study placement in 1-7 days, starting from when your application is complete with all the required documents.
Fees
The application fee invoice will be sent to you soon after the initial acceptance letter. This fee will be due within 10 days of receiving your confirmation. The application fee is non-refundable even if you decide to cancel (see below).
Cancellation
If you’re unable to participate in the study abroad semester, you have the right to cancel your participation up to 1 month before the semester starts with no extra cost (the application fee will not be refunded, however). Let us know about your cancellation by writing us an email at info[ at]asiaexchange.org. Cancellations notified via phone, SMS or by any other means will not be considered. For more detailed information on our cancellation policy, please see the terms and conditions for cancellation. We also reserve the right to cancel your participation if any of your fees becomes overdue. For more information, please see our terms and conditions.
Travel insurance
You are required to have valid accident and health insurance from your home country for the whole duration of the program. The university may request a copy of the insurance certificate at the beginning of the semester. See our recommended travel insurance providers.
Who can apply
Minimum requirements:
- Minimum age of 18 years
- Currently enrolled at a university or equivalent institution, OR a recent high school graduate
- Sufficient English skills (no official language test required)
See the additional requirements.
Accommodation
Dublin offers a wide range of accommodation options for students. Most students find private rooms or shared apartments in the city. A selection of popular options is available on the American College Dublin website, and the experienced student support staff will be happy to help. American College Dublin is located at 2 Merrion Square, Dublin 2 – close to the LUAS (Dublin’s tram service) and the DART (Dublin’s suburban rail services). Use Google Maps to check the distance from your accommodation to the college. We recommend starting your search early. The Beyond Abroad Guide sent after your application contains detailed accommodation tips for Dublin. Read our accommodation guide here.
Program Highlights
Study in a dual-accredited institution and earn both European and American qualifications
High-quality undergraduate and postgraduate education based on the best Irish and American teaching practices
Intimate, multicultural academic community in the heart of Dublin
Explore the World - Semester Abroad at American College Dublin
A semester at American College Dublin places you in the heart of one of Europe’s most dynamic and welcoming cities, studying Liberal Arts, Business, Performing Arts, Hospitality, or a wide range of other disciplines at Bachelor’s or Master’s level in English. ACD’s intimate campus, holistic teaching model, and close-knit multicultural community make it a genuinely unique academic setting. Between classes, Dublin’s pubs, cliffs, castles, and European connections are right at your doorstep.
SEMESTERS
Autumn (Sep – Dec),
Spring (Jan - May)
Max credits
30 ECTS / 18 US credits
Fees
+
Levels of study
Bachelor's & Master's Level: Semester Abroad, Gap Year & Full Degree
Program content
Lectures
Study Fields
Liberal arts, Performing arts, Creative writing, International business, Accounting and finance, Hospitality management and Event management, and many more
Everything You Need to Know - Semester Abroad at American College Dublin
Thinking about a semester at American College Dublin? From course options and semester dates to accommodation, visa, and fees, everything you need to plan your time in Ireland is right here. Scroll through the details below and take the next step.
Semester Dates
*) SMALL CHANGES POSSIBLE / DATES ARE STILL TENTATIVE.
| SPRING 2027 | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 18.01.2027 – 14.05.2027 |
| Orientation | 14.01.2027 |
| Application deadline | Non-EU: 01.10.2026 |
| EU: 01.11.2026 | |
| Exams | TBA |
| SUMMER 2027* | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 10.05.2027 – 01.08.2027 |
| Orientation | 10.05.2027 |
| Application deadline | 01.04.2027 |
| Exams | TBA |
| AUTUMN 2027* | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 13.09.2027 – 18.12.2027 |
| Orientation | 09.09.2027 |
| Application deadline | EU: 01.08.2027 |
| Non-EU: 01.06.2027 | |
| SPRING 2028* | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 17.01.2028 – 14.05.2028 |
| Orientation | 13.01.2029 |
| Application deadline | Non-EU: 01.10.2027 |
| EU: 01.11.2027 | |
| Exams | TBA |
For Non-European citizens, the application deadline is one month earlier than listed above!
YOU MAY APPLY FOR SEMESTERS IN THE UPCOMING YEARS ALREADY.
Courses & Study
American College Dublin offers undergraduate and graduates degree courses in Liberal arts, Business and Performance. Students can choose up to 6 (six) courses per semester from all undergraduate and graduate programs, in which you will study together with local and other international students.
Course list spring 2027 semester
Course list autumn 2026 semester
Most requested syllabi Bachelor Courses
Most requested syllabi Master Courses
Please note that Semester 2 refers to spring intakes and Semester 1 refers to autumn intakes. American College Dublin reserves rights to changes in the course offering. Since ACD offers no tailor-made exchange program with specific courses, students should be prepared for possible course changes. Pick some extra courses when making your initial course selection if one of your choices isn’t available.
In addition, you have the chance to take musical theatre or performing arts classes, but these have added expenses for one-to-one vocal training. The extra fee for musical theatre or performing arts classes is 1000€
Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time in case you cannot find the syllabus you are looking for.
eCampus
In addition to the courses mentioned above, you have the chance to attend additional distance learning courses in the fields of Economics, Marketing, Sociology, and Politics. All the courses are taught from a distance and can be joined independently from place and time. This gives you the ultimate flexibility to combine your study abroad experience with various academic courses.
All information about the eCampus can be found here.
You have the chance to opt for distance learning courses during your application process. Please note that each distance learning course is worth 5 ECTS and comes at an additional charge of 199€ / 297 USD.
After completing your eCampus courses, you will receive an academic transcript issued by Undiknas University. Additionally, you will receive a participation certificate for each completed distance learning course.
Fees
Tuition fee:
Application fee:
See what’s included in the fees.
If there are wishes to take musical theater or performing arts classes, students would have to cover the added expense of one-to-one vocal training. There is an extra
Many of our students apply for national student funding such as PROMOS, BAföG, or CSN.
Are you from North/South America & Oceania? Find out more about the fees.
Benefits when applying via Asia Exchange to American college Dublin
- Confirmation even in one day
- Orientation days
- No English proficiency test required
additional discount when you apply for two semesters.
Required Documentation
Undergraduate Programs
- Electronic application form
- Copy of identification page of the passport
- High school diploma, certificate, transcript of records or equivalent document (stamped and signed or electronically verifiable, in English)
- A certificate of enrollment in English. This document should show that you are a current student at the institution you are studying in. See an example.
- Learning aggrement.
- *Portfolio for creative writing courses only.
Graduate Programs
- Electronic application form
- Copy of identification page of the passport
- Bachelor’s degree diploma, certificate, transcript of records or equivalent document (stamped and signed or electronically verifiable, in English.)
- A certificate of enrollment in English. This document should show that you are a current student at the institution you are studying in. See an example.
- Learning agreement.
Proof of enrollment for the current academic year in your home university. See the example here.
Please note that applications sent without a valid passport cannot be processed.
Visas and Immigration for US students
US citizens do not have to apply for a study visa until after they have arrived in Ireland. The ACD Student Life Office holds visa registration orientation. To pass through immigration at Dublin Airport, American students must be sure that they have:
- Paid their full tuition or have documentation from ACD confirming US Financial Aid award
- A valid Passport
- Student medical insurance can be purchased at the following link: https://www.studyandprotect.com/ (typically costs approx. €120/ year)
Take a Break, Not a Step Back - Gap Year at American College Dublin
Dublin is one of Europe’s most exciting and welcoming cities for a gap year that genuinely counts. At ACD, you’ll study at Bachelor’s or Master’s level in a dual-accredited institution combining the best of Irish and American education, explore one of Europe’s most vibrant capitals, and build a multicultural network that will serve you throughout your career. A gap year in Dublin is not a detour. It’s a head start.
SEMESTERS
Autumn (Sep – Dec),
Spring (Jan - May)
Max credits
30 ECTS / 18 US credits
Fees
+
Levels of study
Bachelor's & Master's Level: Semester Abroad, Gap Year & Full Degree
Program content
Lectures
Study Fields
Liberal arts, Performing arts, Creative writing, International business, Accounting and finance, Hospitality management and Event management, and many more
Everything You Need to Know - Gap Year at American College Dublin
Taking a gap year at American College Dublin is more straightforward than you might think. Semesters start in September (Autumn) and January (Spring). Find all the details below and start planning your gap year in Ireland.
Semester Dates
| SPRING 2027 | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 18.01.2027 – 14.05.2027 |
| Orientation | 14.01.2027 |
| Application deadline | Non-EU: 01.10.2026 |
| EU: 01.11.2026 | |
| Exams | TBA |
| SUMMER 2027* | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 10.05.2027 – 01.08.2027 |
| Orientation | 10.05.2027 |
| Application deadline | 01.04.2027 |
| Exams | TBA |
| AUTUMN 2027* | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 13.09.2027 – 18.12.2027 |
| Orientation | 09.09.2027 |
| Application deadline | EU: 01.08.2027 |
| Non-EU: 01.06.2027 | |
| SPRING 2028* | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 17.01.2028 – 14.05.2028 |
| Orientation | 13.01.2029 |
| Application deadline | Non-EU: 01.10.2027 |
| EU: 01.11.2027 | |
| Exams | TBA |
YOU MAY APPLY FOR SEMESTERS IN THE UPCOMING YEARS ALREADY.
*) SMALL CHANGES POSSIBLE / DATES ARE STILL TENTATIVE.
Courses & Study
American College Dublin offers undergraduate and graduates degree courses in Liberal arts, Business and Performance. Students can choose up to 6 (six) courses per semester from all undergraduate and graduate programs, in which you will study together with local and other international students.
Course list spring 2027 semester
Course list autumn 2025 semester
Most requested syllabi Bachelor Courses
Most requested syllabi Master Courses
Please note that Semester 2 refers to spring intakes and Semester 1 refers to autumn intakes. American College Dublin reserves rights to changes in the course offering. Since ACD offers no tailor-made exchange program with specific courses, students should be prepared for possible course changes. Pick some extra courses when making your initial course selection if one of your choices isn’t available.
In addition, you have the chance to take musical theatre or performing arts classes, but these have added expenses for one-to-one vocal training. The extra fee for musical theatre or performing arts classes is 1000€
Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time in case you cannot find the syllabus you are looking for.
eCampus
In addition to the courses mentioned above, you have the chance to attend additional distance learning courses in the fields of Economics, Marketing, Sociology, and Politics. All the courses are taught from a distance and can be joined independently from place and time. This gives you the ultimate flexibility to combine your study abroad experience with various academic courses.
All information about the eCampus can be found here.
You have the chance to opt for distance learning courses during your application process. Please note that each distance learning course is worth 5 ECTS and comes at an additional charge of 199€ / 297 USD.
After completing your eCampus courses, you will receive an academic transcript issued by Undiknas University. Additionally, you will receive a participation certificate for each completed distance learning course.
Fees
Tuition fee:
Application fee:
See what’s included in the fees.
If there are wishes to take musical theater or performing arts classes, students would have to cover the added expense of one-to-one vocal training. There is an extra
Many of our students apply for national student funding such as PROMOS, BAföG, or CSN.
Benefits when applying via Asia Exchange to American college Dublin
- Confirmation even in one day
- Orientation days
- No English proficiency test required
additional discount when you apply for two semesters.
Required Documentation
Undergraduate Programs
- Electronic application form
- Copy of identification page of the passport
- High school diploma, certificate, transcript of records or equivalent document (stamped and signed or electronically verifiable, in English)
- A certificate of enrollment in English. This document should show that you are a current student at the institution you are studying in. See an example.
- Learning aggrement.
- *Portfolio for creative writing courses only.
Graduate Programs
- Electronic application form
- Copy of identification page of the passport
- Bachelor’s degree diploma, certificate, transcript of records or equivalent document (stamped and signed or electronically verifiable, in English.)
- A certificate of enrollment in English. This document should show that you are a current student at the institution you are studying in. See an example.
- Learning agreement.
Please note that applications sent without a valid passport cannot be processed.
Important Notice for Gap Year program: Please note that the American College of Dublin currently accepts gap year students only from European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA) member states. Non-European students interested in gap year programs are encouraged to explore alternative options. Feel free to contact us at info@asiaexchange.org to learn more about your alternative options.
Go All In - Earn Your Degree in Dublin at American College Dublin
Why stop at a semester when you can earn a full degree in the heart of Dublin? American College Dublin is a dual-accredited institution – fully recognised in both Europe and the USA – offering Bachelor’s and Master’s programs that combine the best of Irish and American higher education. Study Liberal Arts, Business, Creative Writing, Performing Arts, Hospitality Management, or more, in an intimate and internationally diverse academic environment. A degree from ACD is a genuine differentiator.
SEMESTERS
Autumn (Sep – Dec),
Spring (Jan - May)
Max credits
30 ECTS / 18 US credits
Fees
+
Levels of study
Bachelor's & Master's Level: Semester Abroad, Gap Year & Full Degree
Program content
Lectures
Study Fields
Liberal arts, Performing arts, Creative writing, International business, Accounting and finance, Hospitality management and Event management, and many more
Everything You Need to Know - Full Degree at American College Dublin
American College Dublin offers Bachelor’s and Master’s level full degree programs in an intimate, dual-accredited setting. Programs are based on the best Irish and American teaching practices and an international syllabus. Find all the details below.
Semester Dates
| SPRING 2027 | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 18.01.2027 – 14.05.2027 |
| Orientation | 14.01.2027 |
| Application deadline | Non-EU: 01.10.2026 |
| EU: 01.11.2026 | |
| Exams | TBA |
| SUMMER 2027* | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 10.05.2027 – 01.08.2027 |
| Orientation | 10.05.2027 |
| Application deadline | 01.04.2027 |
| Exams | TBA |
| AUTUMN 2027* | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 13.09.2027 – 18.12.2027 |
| Orientation | 09.09.2027 |
| Application deadline | EU: 01.08.2027 |
| Non-EU: 01.06.2027 | |
| SPRING 2028* | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 17.01.2028 – 14.05.2028 |
| Orientation | 13.01.2029 |
| Application deadline | Non-EU: 01.10.2027 |
| EU: 01.11.2027 | |
| Exams | TBA |
For Non-European citizens, the application deadline is one month earlier than listed above!
YOU MAY APPLY FOR SEMESTERS IN THE UPCOMING YEARS ALREADY.
*) SMALL CHANGES POSSIBLE / DATES ARE STILL TENTATIVE.
Courses & Study
Bachelor’s Degree Programs
- Bachelors of Arts in International Business
- Certificate in Musical Theatre
- Associate of Fine Arts In Musical Theatre
- Bachelor of Arts in Event Management
- BA (Hons) in International Business
- Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Liberal Arts
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performing Arts
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
- Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts
Master’s Degree Programs
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Business in International Business
- Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
- Master of Fine Arts in Fashion Design
- Master of Fine Arts in Performance
- Master of Science in Performance Coaching
- Master of Business Administration in Energy Management
- Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Practice
Fees
Undergraduate
EU students: starts at 6,000 EUR
Non-EU students: starts at 9,000 EUR
Graduate
EU students: starts at 7,500 EUR
Non-EU students: starts at 10,000 EUR
Many of our students apply for national student funding such as PROMOS, BAföG, or CSN.
Are you from North/South America & Oceania? Find out more about the fees.
Benefits when applying via Asia Exchange to American college Dublin
- Confirmation even in one day
- Orientation days
- No English proficiency test required
additional discount when you apply for two semesters.
Required Documentation
Bachelor’s Degree Program at American College Dublin
Applicants are required to have graduated from high school at a standard that satisfies the institution that they have a strong likelihood of being able to complete the program of study for which they have applied.
Applicants still in high school must provide evidence from high school transcripts and/or report cards that suggest a likelihood to graduate from high school; conditional acceptance is granted pending the completion of the applicant’s senior high school year.
Requirements
- Passport or EU ID Card
- Academic transcripts
- Diplomas (if graduated)
- Proof of English Language proficiency (if applicable)
- Personal Statement answering why you want to study the program
- An English language certificate may also be required, please review the university’s English language policy.
Important Note: Please ensure all required documents are saved in PDF format and ready for upload before continuing with your application.
Master’s Degree Program at American College Dublin
Applicants usually need a bachelor’s degree that is comparable to an Irish Level 8 Bachelor (Hons) degree.
Requirements
- Passport or EU ID Card
- Academic transcripts
- Diplomas (if graduated)
- Proof of English Language proficiency (if applicable)
- Personal Statement answering why you want to study the program
- An English language certificate may also be required, please review the university’s English language policy.
Important Note: Please ensure all required documents are saved in PDF format and ready for upload before continuing with your application.
Visas and Immigration for US students
US citizens do not have to apply for a study visa until after they have arrived in Ireland. The ACD Student Life Office holds visa registration orientation. To pass through immigration at Dublin Airport, American students must be sure that they have:
- Paid their full tuition or have documentation from ACD confirming US Financial Aid award
- A valid Passport
- Student medical insurance can be purchased at the following link: https://www.studyandprotect.com/ (typically costs approx. €120/ year)
SEMESTERS
Max credits
Fees
Levels of study
Bachelor's & Master's Level: Semester Abroad, Gap Year & Full Degree
Program content
Lectures
Study Fields
Semester Dates
Courses & Study
Fees
Required Documentation
SEMESTERS
Max credits
Fees
Levels of study
Bachelor's & Master's Level: Semester Abroad, Gap Year & Full Degree
Program content
Lectures
Study Fields
Semester Dates
Courses & Study
Fees
Required Documentation
Frequent asked questions
STUDIES & SCHEDULES
Q: Can I take Master’s level courses even if I’m a Bachelor’s level student?
A: It depends on your foundation courses from the Bachelor courses you have taken. It can be reviewed by ACD after pre-selecting your courses
Q: Are there mandatory courses?
A: There are no mandatory courses when studying at ACD. You may choose from the available courses for the specific semester you will be joining. You cannot pre-select courses that is taught for a different semester as classes are organized by semester schedule.
Q: When are my course selections confirmed?
A: The course selections are confirmed 1 month before the semester starts. In some cases where the students need to confirm their courses through their Learning Agreements, they can send it to us as soon as available. The semester courses being offered in ACD is being updated towards at the beginning of each academic year or every after each semester.
Q: Can I drop out of a course or add a course after making the course selections?
A: Adding or dropping out of course may take place on or before your arrival at the destination. However, should you choose to add or drop a course feel free to contact the international office or school registrar and coordinate what needs to be done or should you need to change the course for your credits.
Q: How does the weekly schedule look like?
A: During the orientation a week before the semester starts, you will be provided with the class schedule. The reason why international students are encouraged to choose below 6 courses to ensure that there are still days and time you can dedicate for your intercultural learning, immersions or cultural excursions.
Q: What is the required minimum attendance?
A: Unwritten rule of thumb is to attend the classes 75% of the time including the mandatory lectures and workshops.
Q: When do the exams take place?
A: All exams will take place inside the official semester dates. Mid-term exams usually take place the week before the mid-term holiday and final exams the last week of the semester. The exams are scheduled for the same weekdays and times as your normal classes.
EVERYDAY CONDUCT
Dresscode: There is no specific dress code in ACD. However, you are expected to dress well. No flip flops or boardies. Just remember to cover your shoulders and knees – and to wear proper shoes
VISA & TRAVEL
Q: What is the correct type of visa for studying abroad in Dublin at ACD?
A: C Study Visa. This is for the students studying not more than 3 months. If you are a non-EEA national coming to study in Ireland you must be enrolled in a full-time course on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP). You can find out more in our document on the immigration rules for non-EEA students.
Q: When can I apply for my visa?
A: As soon as you receive the official acceptance letter from American College Dublin. We will send this to you latest 1month before the semester starts. You cannot apply for your visa with the initial acceptance letter from Asia Exchange.
ACCOMMODATION
Q: How can I find suitable accommodation options?
A: Read our accommodation guide for American College Dublin here.
Q: Should I book accommodation in advance or after arriving in Dublin?
A: It is completely up to you. Many of the cheapest places get booked in advance, but there are students who prefer checking the accommodation options in person after arrival.
COSTS
In addition to tuition fees, you should be prepared to pay for the student visa, flights, accommodation, and other living costs and depending on each student’s lifestyle. For some, it can be an average cost of 1000€.
What former students say
