Even before you set foot in Ireland, you can start exploring its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture through a range of virtual tours and travel platforms. The websites are great for planning future trips or simply getting inspired:
Orientation
Your 2025 guide to Orientation at UCD
Welcome to UCD!
UCD coordinates various orientation events and activities for new international students commencing their students at UCD in the September and January trimesters!
The information below will help you learn more about the UCD Orientation programme, and the UCD Global Orientation events and activities. There is also a lot of helpful information for reference, as you plan to arrive in Ireland for the start of term.
What's On
UCD Global’s Orientation events and activities include a series of cultural, social and informational events specifically designed to help new international students ease into life on campus, make new friends, and get to know Ireland. You can choose to attend any events that fit your schedule and your interests, as these events compliment the main UCD Orientation Programme schedule.
UCD Orientation
Orientation Schedule
January 2026 Orientation Schedule - Coming Soon!
September Orientation
The main UCD Orientation programme is hosted by your School and academic programme. Here you will learn much more about UCD, your academic programme, and have even more opportunities to meet other new students. Keep in mind, the orientation events hosted by your School and academic programme are mandatory, so be sure to check your Orientation timetable in SISWeb by mid-August.
In addition to the orientation programmes above, there are a variety of other events and activities on-campus during Orientation and throughout the year. Be on the lookout for more information!
- UCD Reslife hosts a variety of events during orientation and throughout the year. Download the Living at UCD App for more information.
- Fresher’s Week
- Sports Expo
- Events hosted in the UCD Global Lounge
Stay connected with UCD Global on Instagram (opens in a new window)@ucdglobal to learn more about upcoming events and activities at UCD.
January Orientation
Learning Abroad students, including our Exchange and Study Abroad students, who are joining UCD for the Spring Trimester have a bespoke UCD Global Orientation period. This includes one week full of mandatory orientation sessions, social events, academic advisories, and information sessions - all to help you get started at UCD.
Pre-Arrival Information
The below information is helpful for you to review as you plan for your arrival in Dublin. If you have any questions as you prepare to travel, don’t hesitate to let us know.
UCD Student Health Service provides an on campus primary care medical service for all students of UCD. A staff of doctors, nurses and a part time psychiatrist offer professional, confidential care with a wide range of medical services available on the UCD Student Health Service website.
To learn more about the Irish healthcare system and how services operate, please read through this list of helpful FAQs.
If you cannot find an answer there you can email the UCD Pharmacy to enquire before you travel: (opens in a new window)global@procarepharmacy.ie
To find out information about the Student Counselling Service and how to access appointments, please review the information available on the counselling website.
The student Ucard is the official UCD student card. The Ucard is multi-functional, and is used for numerous services. Your Ucard offers convenience, flexibility and most importantly, security. Each student has their own personal & confidential Ucard account.
Find out more information andrequest a UCARD.
Several mobile phone service providers in Ireland offer a range of monthly plans. By topping up mobile credit each month, you can avail of unlimited data and texts with certain mobile phone companies. See the links below for current promotions and call allowances.
- (opens in a new window)Switcher.ie (all networks)
- (opens in a new window)3 Mobile
- (opens in a new window)Vodafone
- (opens in a new window)Tesco Mobile
- (opens in a new window)48.ie
SIM Cards
Free SIM cards will also be provided for international students checking into UCD Residences (while stocks last!). If you do not get one at check-in, or live off-campus, please enquire at the UCD Global Reception Desk at the UCD Global Lounge.
If your mobile phone is eSIM compatible or only accepts eSIMs, various providers offer eSIM cards which you can set up without the need to go to a store or receive a physical SIM card. This is helpful if your mobile phone only accepts e-SIMs, or you prefer an e-SIM for your Irish mobile number. For more information on e-SIMs, check out (opens in a new window)Vodafone, (opens in a new window)Three and (opens in a new window)Eir. It’s quick and easy to set up!
Additionally, physical SIM cards can be ordered online directly from your preferred network provider and you can request it to be posted to your accommodation address. There are various providers in Ireland in addition to those linked above.
Unlocking your phone
Students can purchase a new phone when they arrive in Ireland or unlock their existing mobile phones. If you wish to use your existing phone, please ensure that it is unlocked and is compatible to accept an international SIM card. Your current network provider can provide you with your unlocking code.
Your phone may be unlocked already; you can check this by putting in a different SIM card to your current network to see if it works.
Please also ensure that you bring your SIM card removal tool in order to change SIMs between phones when you get to Ireland.
Depending on your age, you qualify for either a Student Leap Card or a Young Adult Leap Card. This offers up to 50% discounted travel on public transport in Dublin and all over Ireland, including buses, trains and trams.
(opens in a new window)The Leap Card website here has information detailing the pre-requisites and required documents to submit with your application. Your age determines what Leap Card you qualify for, please review the information below and on the Leap Card website carefully.
- If you are 16 to 18 years old OR 26 years or older - you will apply for a Student Leap Card. Once you complete the online application, you must pick up your Student Leap Card at an authorised Student Leap Card agent. The UCD Bookstore on the Belfield Campus is an authorised agent, so once your online application is “approved” you may pick it up there.
- If you are 19 to 25 years old (inclusive), you will apply for a Young Adult Leap Card. Once you complete the online application, they will post you your card to your local address in Ireland.
If you have questions or need advice, get in touch with UCD Global for help.
In order to open an Irish bank account with one of the main banks in Ireland, you need to have an address in Ireland and have completed your online registration at UCD and received your Certificate of Attendance. It is recommended to apply to open a bank account online via the bank’s website or mobile application for the quickest and easiest option. Some banks (AIB and Bank of Ireland) offer you the option to book an appointment and go to a bank in person.
What Account Do I Open?
Referred to as a “current account”, “student bank account” or “bank account” depending on the bank, these accounts are generally suitable for your everyday banking needs. They will provide you with a BIC and IBAN for sending/receiving money transfers, a bank card for making payments online and in shops around Dublin, and access to manage your account via a mobile app and/or web account. Below are a few options for you to consider, with information on how to get started.
Required Documents
The bank you open an account with will be able to advise you during your online application exactly what documents are needed based on your personal circumstances. Typically, the following documents are required from each bank. They will be able to advise you during your online application exactly what documents are needed.
- Valid Passport/National ID Card
- Student entry visa/landing stamp OR Irish Residence Permit (for non-EEA students)
- Valid Irish address/eircode
- Certificate of Attendance that lists both your permanent and Irish addresses. (Please check that your correct addresses are on your SISweb account, as this information will be included on your Certificate of Attendance).
- Generally, this will be able to serve as your proof of student status AND proof of address
If you have questions while completing the application, check if you can get clarification from the Bank on what you need to do. If you need advice, UCD Global can also assist you.
Bank Options
Allied Irish Bank (AIB)
- Open an AIB current account in the (opens in a new window)AIB Mobile App
Bank of Ireland (BOI)
Revolut
- Open a bank account in the (opens in a new window)Revolut Mobile App
Money Jar
- Open a digital bank account in the (opens in a new window)Money Jar mobile app
- Step-by-step instructions noted here
On-Campus
- There is a Centra Supermarket on UCD campus. Check out (opens in a new window)https://centra.ie/beat-the-queue
Off-Campus
There is a wide range of supermarkets near UCD where you can shop for food and essentials, and in some cases, order delivery.
- (opens in a new window)Lidl
- (opens in a new window)Supervalu
- (opens in a new window)Tesco
- (opens in a new window)Dunnes Stores
- (opens in a new window)Marks & Spencer
- (opens in a new window)Asia Market
- For local take out and dining options check out (opens in a new window)Tripadvisor
- (opens in a new window)Too Good to Go App
- (opens in a new window)Deliveroo
- Uber Eats (opens in a new window)Local to UCD
- (opens in a new window)Just Eat
- (opens in a new window)Dundrum Shopping Centre
- Another grocery delivery option is (opens in a new window)Buymie
From career development and cultural integration to finding your way around campus, these tools will help you settle in and make the most of your time at UCD.
- UCD Careers Network
- (opens in a new window)Jumpstart - Careers Course for International Students
- Gaeltacht UCD
- UCD Global Lounge
- (opens in a new window)Handy Map of UCD and surrounding area
For access to the Destination Ireland module (a non-credit bearing online module which will give you an introduction to Ireland’s culture and heritage), please visit the UCD Student Welcome Hub in your UCD SISWeb account. You can also email (opens in a new window)ucdgloballounge@ucd.ieif you would like the direct link.
The UCD Dignity & Respect Support Advisers work proactively with students who disclose issues of bullying, harassment and sexual misconduct and those who are reported for such issues. The Advisers, who are experienced and trained to support, respond and advise on all reports of a dignity and respect nature, will provide you with a supportive, confidential environment in which to discuss the issues and will support you to make a decision that is right for you and your situation.
There are a variety of engaging resources to help you explore Irish culture, history, and contemporary life as you settle in. From music and folklore to podcasts and museums, there’s something for every interest.
We recommend exploring:
- (opens in a new window)MoLi Museum
- (opens in a new window)Irish History Podcast
- (opens in a new window)Other Voices (Irish Music)
- (opens in a new window)RTE Culture Podcast
- UCD Folklore
- (opens in a new window)Ireland Before You Die
In addition to the above resources, please check out the 'Destination Ireland' short course linked within the '(opens in a new window)Student Welcome Hub' in your UCD account. This short, interactive course provides a wonderful introduction to Irish culture and heritage.
It is great you're taking an interest in local culture and current affairs. Here are some widely used Irish news sources you may find useful:
-
(opens in a new window)RTÉ News – Ireland’s national broadcaster covering TV, radio, and online news.
-
(opens in a new window)The Irish Times – A leading daily newspaper with in-depth reporting and analysis.
-
(opens in a new window)The Irish Independent – One of Ireland’s most widely read newspapers.
-
(opens in a new window)TheJournal.ie – A digital-first news outlet offering accessible coverage of Irish and global events.
These outlets will help you stay informed about Irish society, politics, culture, and student-relevant topics during your time at UCD.
For information on how to have a more sustainable student experience at UCD, and to download your copy of the (opens in a new window)Student Green Guide, please visit the UCD Sustainability website.
You can also stay up to date on UCD Green Campus initiatives for students visit Students - UCD Sustainability.
Arriving in Ireland
Watch our airport arrival video with Global Guide, Bo, welcoming you to Dublin and showing you how to get to UCD.
In the video, you will see what is waiting for you when you arrive and how you can get easily from the airport to our green UCD Campus.
The Campus
The UCD Campus has to be experienced to be believed. Our facilities include world-class teaching and research facilities, modern, comfortable student accommodation, a huge sports centre with Olympic-size swimming pool, interactive laboratories and the biggest animal hospital in Ireland! Get to know our campus a little better in our video, or take a virtual, 3D tour of the campus and experience it for yourself!
The People
At UCD, our faculty and staff are focused on ensuring that all students have the best experience and receive the best education possible in an enjoyable and supportive environment. More than one quarter of our student population is from outside Ireland and the EU, and over one third of our academic staff is from outside Ireland. Our Global Guides are UCD students who are here to help you settle into life at UCD, and who organise many great events for international students in the UCD Global Lounge and Virtual Global Lounge. You can get to know our Global Guides in this video. New Global Guides will be announced in August 2025.
