Table of Contents:
How to use this guide
Before you go
Tips for booking your Flight Health & Wellness Check Passports, Visas, and Immigration Rules Packing Cellphones Money Budget Predictor Apply for a Micro-Credential
Program Information
Introduction Staff Communication with Staff Academics Housing CIS Abroad Activities Arrival Instructions Evaluations
Country / City Information
Cultural Differences Diversity Abroad How to Move Around Things to do on your own Sustainability Tips Mailing Instructions Shopping
Emergencies, Health & Safety
In Case of Emergency Culture Shock Health Insurance Health Onsite Safety Onsite Code of Conduct Independent Travel Form
Voting From Abroad
Student Hub Links:
Micro Credentials

Welcome to
Ireland

The Academic system 

Academic institutions function differently from universities in the United States. The specifics vary from one institution to another. You may encounter differences in things like how Add/Drop works, how assignments graded and weighted, how professors interact with students, how placement tests work, how tests are weighted in the final grade, etc.  We've provided information below to help to get students prepare for the different academic experiences they will have on CIS Abroad's programs.  

Teaching styles: Irish universities favor lecture-based instruction, promoting self-directed learning, while US universities employ interactive teaching methods, encouraging student participation and collaboration.

 
Assessment methods: Irish universities base course grades on one or two major exams or papers, in contrast
to US universities which factor in assignments, attendance, participation, midterms, papers, and projects.
 
Academic culture: Irish universities emphasize self-directed learning, requiring students to manage their own studies and research. In contrast, US universities generally provide more structured support, including frequent guidance and resources, to assist students throughout their academic journey.
 
Grading scales: Grades may be lower percentages than what American students are accustomed to, for example, Pass = Over 40%, Distinction (Highest grade) = Over 70%.
 
Terminology: Some terminology is different in Ireland, including:
  • Module = class
  • Timetable = schedule
  • Tutorial = discussion section 
  • ECTS = units/credits 

University of Limerick (UL)

UL Glucksman Library Doubles in Size with Launch of Bold New Library ...

 

Add / Drops 

  • Choose courses purposefully because UL may ask you to justify if you need to drop a course
  • The add / drop period is during the first two weeks of classes. You will need to notify your International Operations Manager of any course adds/drops (see Staff page)
  • Be aware that you might have to review alternatives with your Study Abroad advisor in your home institution

Transcripts 

University of Limerick provides a digital transcripts through the digital transcript service Digitary.  Students receive notification that the transcript is ready through their UL email address, so be sure to be checking your UL email account after the program ends.  

Once the transcript is ready, you will need to provide the email address of your study abroad advisor in order to have the transcript sent to your home university.  Note: do not have the transcript sent to your email and then forward to your home university- most US institutions will not accept a transcript unless it is received directly from the university.

Please note that your transcript won't be released until your CIS Abroad invoice is paid in full. 

 

Helpful Links

University of Limerick website

University of Limerick International Students website

UL International Summer Programme website

 

 

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