What IELTS score do you need for Dublin Business School?

DBS's general English language requirements page sets IELTS by level: 5.5 for Level 6, 6.0 for Levels 7 and 8, and 6.5 for Level 9, which is master's level, each "or equivalent" and subject to the programme page. The international page and policy give a single 6.0 instead. Course pages such as the MSc in Data Analytics ask for CEFR B2+ or an equivalent approved test, so if you are applying for a master's, confirm with admissions whether 6.0 or 6.5 applies.

Component (band) minimums are not stated by DBS. A position on IELTS One Skill Retake or IELTS Online is not stated by DBS.

If you have previously studied through English you may be eligible for a waiver, depending on whether you come from a visa-required country; DBS asks you to contact admissions@dbs.ie. DBS's free online Kaplan Test of English is only for applicants who do not require a study visa (Irish and EU-based students), so it is not a route for Indian applicants.

DBS's English Language Policy states that DBS does not currently offer pre-sessional English for Academic Purposes programmes. You must meet the score before you start.

This guide covers DBS's admission requirement. The study visa is a separate check: the Irish Immigration Service sets a visa minimum of IELTS Academic 5.0 (PTE Academic 30) for courses other than second-level, foundation or English language courses, and says your college's own minimum may be different. Meeting the visa minimum does not get you an offer; DBS's score is the one to aim for. Country-level detail is in our IELTS for Ireland guide.

Requirements are set per intake and can change. Check the Dublin Business School English language page and your course page before you book a test. Read on 8 October 2026.