All higher level institutions are set to be asked to move teaching completely online for the next two as coronavirus cases grow across the country.
Colleges and universities in Dublin have already introduced restrictions for students on campus after the capital was moved to level 3 lockdown due to soaring coronavirus restricitons.
However it's understood all colleges and universities across the country will be asked to deliver most learning online.
Students will be allowed to attend classes for activities such as labs and workshops just as they are in Dublin.
Speaking about the new measures Minister for Higher Education Simon Harris said: "The next two to three weeks represent a critical juncture. The higher education sector has put in place robust plans and protective measures.
"However, at the request of the Department of Health, it has been agreed to introduce enhanced protective measures across the country to ensure safe continuation or beginning of the academic term."
“This will mean more learning will take place online and on-site activity will be minimised over the coming weeks.
“This is disappointing, I know, but absolutely necessary if we are to stop the spread of this virus.
“We are also asking students to minimise travel and to minimise the number of social contacts on and off campus.
“We must do everything possible over the next few weeks to stop its spread and give students the best chance of resuming on site activity. Please stay safe and hold firm.”
The news will come as a surprise to thousands of students who are set to start or return to colleges which were due to open next week.
Last night Donegal was placed on level 3 alert after health chiefs identified a worrying trend of growing cases.
However a number of other counties are also facing lockdown as the virus continues to spread across the country.
Taoiseach Micheal Martin earlier said there was particular concern about Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford.
The Fianna Fail leader said NPHET was worried about these "urban centres" with a high population density.
