How do I apply?


Applications 2025 – 2027

Applications for the 2025 – 2027 programme will open in December 2024.

Applicant Profile

    • Individuals seeking to develop excellent management and leadership training and a career in the Thoroughbred Industry.
    • Those with excellent communication skills and in-depth knowledge of the international Thoroughbred Industry.
    • Those who enjoy a rigorous academic program and multi-cultural experiences.
    • International experience preferred.

Application Criteria

  • Competent thoroughbred horse handling skills.
  • At least one year in paid, full-time, hands-on employment in the Thoroughbred industry.
  • NFQ Level 8 Qualification and at least one year of Thoroughbred industry employment. Or, NFQ Level 7 Qualification and at least three years of Thoroughbred industry employment*. Or, NFQ Level 6 Qualification and at least five years of Thoroughbred industry employment, including positions of responsibility*. Qualification comparison website.
  • If English is not your first language, you will require an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5 or above. If you have completed a comparative English Proficiency test, please use this table to ensure it meets the minimum requirements.

*in these cases, a non-standard admission form is required to be approved by University College Dublin

What do I need to Apply?

Application deadline, and what happens next?

  • The deadline for applications is 5pm GMT Monday, February 3rd 2025
  • Applicants will be informed by email within three working days whether they have been selected for an interview or not.

Pre Interview

Applicants selected for an interview will be required to:

  • Complete online psychometric tests.
  • Complete a horsemanship competency video as outlined here.

Interview

  • Applicants will be interviewed by video conference and in addition, may be required to carry out practical tasks, written assessments and group work.

Post Interview

  • Successful applicants are required to carry out pre-course reading and assignments.
  • Successful applicants will be required to undergo a medical examination.

2025 Interview Dates

Interviews will take place via Zoom videoconference.

What is included in the Scholarship?

  • Course fees
  • Accommodation
  • Local transport
  • International Health Insurance
  • Monthly living allowance
  • Flight allowances
  • Visa and immigration costs

 

"I did not realise it at the time,
but it was a strong word from
Gai Waterhouse that changed
my path.

She said, 'young man, to be the
best, you need to learn from the
very best in the world. You must
do this programme.'

And one does not argue
with Gai. She gave me the
confidence to apply."

Henry Field, Graduate 2005