In This Section
Introduction
If you wish to provide third level or English language programmes to non-EEA/non-Swiss nationals you must apply for inclusion on the
Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP).
Providers must meet certain criteria for each type of approved programme to be included on the ILEP.
The ILEP criteria have been updated as of 28 February 2024.
Providers with programmes listed on the ILEP and applicant providers preparing an application for the ILEP are advised to review the updated criteria. Providers are required to reach the standard set out in the relevant criteria in order to have programmes listed on the ILEP. Providers listed on the ILEP must remain in compliance with the relevant criteria in order to retain a listing on the ILEP. Instances of non-compliance may result in removal from the ILEP of all of a provider’s programme listings.
If your programme is not listed on the ILEP or you are waiting for a decision, you should not recruit students from outside the EEA and Switzerland as they may not be granted an immigration permission.
Submitting an application
There are usually two application cycles per year. Applicant providers are urged to review the relevant criteria and guidance before submitting an application. There is a separate form for new provider applicants.
Applications for the next update will only be accepted during the following dates:
- 2 – 8 April 2024 for applications from new applicant providers (those without any programmes listed in the ILEP)
- 8-12 April 2024 for applications for additional programmes from providers with programmes currently listed in the ILEP
The next ILEP update will be published on 21 June 2024.
In anticipation of the introduction of the new International Education Mark (IEM) by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI), the final opportunity for new applicant providers to submit an ILEP application will be 2-8 April 2024.
The ILEP will be closed to new applicant providers following the April 2024 application cycle.
New ILEP applicant providers must also apply to QQI for authorisation to use the new IEM. When fully operational and following a transition period, the IEM will supersede the ILEP for student immigration purposes. For a limited time, providers with programmes already listed on the ILEP may apply for the inclusion of additional programmes while engaging in the IEM application process.
Further information on IEM requirements and the application process will be published by QQI on its website www.QQI.ie
To prepare for the transition from the ILEP to the IEM, it has been necessary to make revisions to the ILEP criteria.
Applicants are required to closely review the updated ILEP criteria and ensure to use the relevant revised application form if submitting an ILEP application.
Application forms for English Language Programmes:
Application forms for Higher Education and Professional Programmes:
Application forms for Foundation Programmes:
Applications will only be accepted during the dates set out above, using the correct application form and should be submitted by email to [email protected].
Please note:
- Providers do not need to re-apply in respect of existing programme listings
- Documents should be printed double-sided where possible
- Higher education and foundation programmes must be fully validated at the time of application.
Processing applications
Queries from providers can be emailed to [email protected].
The International Education Mark (IEM)
ISD has requested advice from QQI in relation to a review of the accepted English language proficiency exams for English language programmes listed on ILEP. As set out in Arrangements Applying to English Language Programmes 1 October 2015 (Updated 28 February 2024), where it is deemed appropriate, the Department of Justice, on behalf of the Minister, will seek advice from QQI where education-related queries arise.
The International Education Division of QQI has conducted its own review of English language proficiency exams as part of the development of the IEM and has identified expertise in the area of English language assessment.
Providers of English language proficiency exams are requested to contact the International Education Division of QQI at [email protected] in relation to requests for consideration of suitable English language proficiency exams. In the event that revisions/additions are made to the list of English language proficiency exams for ILEP programmes, these will be published in the next iteration of the ILEP criteria and may apply until the transition to the IEM.
Please note that all decisions in relation to immigration matters fall within the remit of ISD in the Department of Justice.
Ongoing monitoring of providers
Providers must comply with immigration regulations and ILEP criteria and requirements. Immigration Service Delivery may carry out unannounced inspections, spot checks and monitoring of activity and compliance.
Providers must inform the ILEP unit (within five working days) of any change to status. This includes, for example, any changes to staffing, location of provision, learner protection arrangements, ownership or governance. Failure to notify us, or the provision of false or misleading information, may result in the removal from the ILEP of all the provider’s programmes.
Contact details for the ILEP Unit:
Email: [email protected]
Postal address:
Interim List of Eligible Programmes, ILEP BQ/4
Immigration Service Delivery
13/14 Burgh Quay
Dublin 2, D02 XK70