Visiting Student Information Guide

Welcome to University College Cork, Ireland! 

This guide provides the essential details you need to prepare for your time with us, including academics, campus resources, housing, and student life. We hope it helps you settle in smoothly and make the most of your experience as a valued member of our community.

Click here to view the information guide: Visiting Student Information Guide for Accepted Students

Pre-Arrival Webinar – We will host an online session approximately one month before your arrival in Ireland. During this webinar, you will receive important information about preparing for your journey, academic expectations, accommodation, immigration requirements, campus services, and student life. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and connect with staff to help ensure a smooth transition to Ireland.

Visiting Student FAQ

General Information

What are the next steps after I receive my acceptance letter?

• If required, you will be emailed with the link to the housing application form
• When you have that submitted, wait for information from the UCC housing office or housing complex

You do not need to complete any task for UCC until we reach out to you about a pre-arrival webinar.

What are the semester dates?

Orientation and Semester Dates

What can I be doing in the meantime?

• Research What can I study?
• Learn more about life in Cork Before You Arrive, After You Arrive, Living in Cork

Disability Support at UCC

If you will require disability-related support while studying at UCC, you will be able to request this during the official UCC registration process. It’s helpful to review the Disability Support Service (DSS) in advance so you understand what accommodations are available. Keep in mind that services may differ from those offered at your home university.

Learn more here: https://www.ucc.ie/en/access/support-while-in-ucc/disability-support/

Is there a pre‑arrival webinar?

Yes. UCC hosts an online webinar about one month before arrival. It covers:

• Preparing for travel
• Academic expectations
• Accommodation
• Immigration requirements
• Campus services
• Student life

You’ll also be able to ask questions and meet staff.

Housing

How do I apply for housing?

UCC’s Accommodation & Community Life office manages a centralized placement service for international and Erasmus students. You will receive the housing application form after receiving your acceptance letter.

Can I apply before accepting my offer?

No. You must be accepted by UCC before you can apply for housing.

Should visiting students enter the main housing lottery?

No. The main housing lottery is for full‑degree students only.

How much should I budget for housing?

Students should budget at least €6,000 per semester.

Where can I find more housing details?

Visit UCC Accommodation Advice for International Students: https://www.ucc.ie/en/accommodation/accomadvice/internationals/

Modules at UCC (Courses)

Students are encouraged to take some time to get familiar with how the module process works at UCC.

Visa and Immigration

Is it my responsibility to manage my visa and immigration process?

Yes. Students must ensure they follow the correct procedures.

How do I know if I need a visa to enter Ireland?

Check here: https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-study-in-ireland/study-in-ireland-travel-path/ 

Which nationalities currently do NOT require a visa to enter Ireland?

USA, Canada, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, Singapore +More (Always check for updates in relation to your country)

At the Airport (Arrival to Ireland)

What documents should I bring for border control?

• Suggested documents to present at border control - Immigration Service Delivery
• Immigration FAQ: Frequently asked questions for Registration - Immigration Service Delivery

Information below is subject to change without notice so please refer to the above link for updates

All documents must be printed

You must have:

• Printed UCC Letter of Acceptance (downloaded from your application portal)
• Proof of finances- Information on Student Finances - Immigration Service Delivery
• Proof of Cork address (Examples: Housing confirmation letter (with your name and Cork address), Signed rental or tenancy agreement
• Required documents for Stamp 2A (Link to Immigration website-required documents)

1. 1. The biometric page of your current valid passport(s). This is the page that shows your photograph, passport number and date of birth.
   2. A letter from your college/school, confirming your enrolment as a student: not available until you are registered (Letter of Attendance | University College Cork)
   3. Proof you have paid college/school fees- Letter will be provided to you by UCC 
   4. Private Medical Insurance or Travel Insurance with medical cover for accidents and medical incident including hospital stays in Ireland, valid for 12 months, or if less than 12 months – for the duration of your stay. Please bring an original Policy document, in your name for the entire length of your stay. It must include full cover for hospital with relevant dates included.
   5. Proof of your exam results- Your transcript from your home university

What immigration permission will I receive?

Most visiting students receive Stamp 2A.

Irish Residence Permit (IRP)

Do I need an IRP card?

If you enter Ireland with a non‑EU passport, yes. You must register with the immigration office in Dublin after arrival by booking an appointment.

Can I book the appointment before arriving?

No. You must wait until you arrive because they require your landing stamp information.

How long is the wait for an appointment?

Appointments can take weeks or months to secure during busy periods. It is advised that students book an appointment within a few days of arriving into Ireland. We will remind you of this at orientation.

To prepare for your appointment, ensure you have gathered all relevant documents before attending. This is crucial for a smooth process and to avoid any delays.

How much does the IRP cost?

€300 (subject to change).

Will UCC help explain the process?

Yes. Immigration information is covered during:

• The pre‑arrival webinar
• Orientation sessions

Working in Ireland

Can visiting non‑EU students work while studying?

No. Students on Stamp 2A are not permitted to work under Irish immigration policy.

Arriving to Cork

Does UCC provide airport pickup?

No. Students are responsible for arranging their own travel from the airport to Cork/housing

How do I get to Cork from the airport?

Check UCC’s “Getting to Cork” webpage for transport options.

What should I do before arriving at my housing?

Contact your housing complex to confirm:

• Move‑in date
• Move‑in time (Do not assume they will be open without notice)

What happens at orientation?

You’ll meet the International Office team. Exact times and locations will be shared before you arrive.

Enrolment and Registration

When will I receive enrolment information?

About six weeks before your start date, you’ll receive an email with:

• A list of key dates and deadlines
• Enrolment steps (step by step guide)
• Class selection (What can I study as a visiting student?)
• Student ID photo upload 
• UCC email setup

When does enrolment begin?

• Autumn / Full-Year students: mid‑August
• Spring students: mid‑November

Living in Ireland

Where can I find support for adjusting to life in Ireland?