FIT (Fastrack into Information Technology) is a representative organisation of the technology sector and the national coordinator of Tech Apprenticeships in Ireland.

FIT’s mission is to promote an inclusive smart economy, ensuring access to in-demand tech skills for quality employment and maximising opportunity, making technology work for all. In total over 250,000 job seekers have completed FIT skills development programmes to date, of which 120,000 have secured quality employment.

FIT currently deliver four Tech Apprenticeship programmes and are key collaborators on a number of projects that are bringing digital skills to a broader and more inclusive audience.

Some of the projects include the Cuimsiú Programme (supporting disabled and Neurodivergent people), Choose Tech, and FIT Green Skills – White Goods and Consumer Electronics. FIT also deliver a number of skills initiatives such as Skills for Jobs, a free platform designed by Microsoft and Linkedin providing Career Essential Certificates in the most in-demand jobs in the digital economy.

Tech Apprenticeships

FIT currently deliver four Tech Apprenticeship programmes:

• Software Development Associate Apprenticeship
• Computer Networking Associate Apprenticeship
• Cybersecurity Apprenticeship
• Data Analytics Associate Apprenticeship (due to launch October 2025, subject to QQI validation). 

Each programme is delivered over a two-year period, adopting a learn-by-doing format of ICT skills development. Tech Apprentices who complete the programme attain a QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in their chosen area.

Eligibility Criteria

All tech apprentice candidates who express an interest in any of the Tech Apprenticeship programme will be required to meet the specific entry requirements.

• Must be 18 years or older
• Achieve passing grade (O6 / H7) in 5 or more subjects (must include Maths and English) in the Irish Leaving Certificate or NFQ Level 5 equivalent.
• Required to meet an initial aptitude test
• Must be eligible to participate in further education and training programmes
• Must be entitled to study and work in Ireland

The Recognition of Prior Learning procedure may be employed in determining equivalence to the above requirements for those candidates without a suitable Leaving Certificate qualification. Alternatively, those who have completed a FIT-recognised Pre-Tech Apprenticeship programme will be able to furnish evidence of the same along with a copy of their Junior Certificate transcript as part of this process

How to Apply?

Applications can be made by visiting www.fit.ie, where you will fill out the candidate application form and select your preferred tech apprenticeship programmes and the locations best suited to you.

Following your application, you will be asked to submit your eligibility documents and complete an aptitude test. The FIT Tech Apprenticeship team will guide you through the entire process, and provide any support needed throughout your application.

Apply Here. 

i-FIT Female Software Development Tech Apprenticeship

i-FIT is an exciting two-year Tech Apprenticeship programme, aimed at enabling women to attain tech skills and qualifications to commence a successful ICT career.

The programme adopts a learn-by-doing format of ICT skills development, and Tech Apprentices who complete the programme attain a QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Software Development.

The courses are run nationwide, with the off-the-job element taking place in Education and Training Boards (ETBs) around Ireland, and the on-the-job learning is carried out with your tech apprentice employer.

The next i-FIT intake for 2025 is in October with applications open to female candidates nationwide (with 5 in-person days in Dublin).

i-Fit Applicant FAQs here. 

Other ICT Courses

With over 200 courses to choose from, there’s one that’s just right for you. Find all FIT’s courses here. 

Popular ICT courses include:

• Manufacturing Technician Maintenance Skills – NFQ Level 6 course
  • Located in Ballina, Co. Mayo
  • Applications now open for upcoming programme in Ballina starting November 2025
  • Learn more about modules, entry requirements and apply directly here

• Manufacturing Technician Maintenance Skills – NFQ Level 4 Course
  • Located in Navan, Co. Meath
  • Next programme intake will be 2026
  • Learn more here.  

• Introduction to Manufacturing Processes – NFQ Level 4 course
  • Located in Ballina, Co. Mayo
  • Next programme intake will be 2026.
  • Learn more about modules and entry requirements here

• Advanced Manufacturing Local Training Initiative – NFQ Level 4 course
  • Located in Navan, Co. Meath
  • Next programme intake will be 2026.
  • Learn more here.