The six universities
An HPAT-Ireland score is required to apply for undergraduate medicine, and some health professions courses, at:
| University | Where to check the courses |
|---|---|
| University of Galway | universityofgalway.ie |
| Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) | rcsi.com |
| Trinity College Dublin | tcd.ie/admissions |
| University College Cork | ucc.ie |
| University College Dublin | ucd.ie |
| University of Limerick | ul.ie |
Exactly which courses need the HPAT can change, so always check each university’s course page and the CAO handbook for the year you are applying.
Written English for two UL courses
Applicants to the University of Limerick’s MSc Occupational Therapy and MSc Speech and Language Therapy also complete a one-hour Written English component on top of Sections 1 to 3.
Applying from outside Ireland
Eligibility rules for applicants from outside the EU differ, and some universities have separate entry routes. If you are applying from abroad, check directly with the university before you register for the test.
How universities use your score
Your HPAT score is combined with your Leaving Certificate (or equivalent) results through the CAO. From 2027 entry, the HPAT counts for a maximum of 150 points and Leaving Certificate points are no longer scaled down, giving a maximum of 775. See HPAT scores explained for the details.
Facts on this page are taken from the official HPAT-Ireland website and the ACER Test Taker Information Booklet for the 2026 test, checked in October 2026. Always confirm dates and rules at hpat-ireland.acer.org before you register.