Study english in Ireland: types of courses, prices, and requirements [2025]

Ireland has an internationally renowned education system, especially in teaching English as a foreign language.

English academies and schools in Ireland are regulated by organizations such as ACELS (Accreditation and Coordination of English Language Services), ensuring high-quality courses and professional teachers.

Teachers in Ireland are native speakers and highly qualified, with extensive experience in teaching English to international students.

Living in Ireland allows you to immerse yourself completely in an English-speaking environment. Being surrounded by native speakers at all times, from classes to daily life, gives you the opportunity to practice English constantly.

This language immersion accelerates the learning process, improving your fluency and comprehension in a much shorter time compared to studying in your home country.

Irish hospitality is world-famous. The Irish people are friendly, open, and always willing to help, making it easier for international students to integrate and adapt.

Additionally, Ireland offers a rich culture that includes music, dance, literature, and festivals that you can enjoy while studying.

Participating in Ireland’s cultural life will provide you with an enriching experience that goes beyond learning the language.

Ireland is famous for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including green meadows, majestic cliffs, and beautiful lakes.

Additionally, cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway offer vibrant urban life with a mix of history and modernity.

During your stay, you can explore both natural wonders and the cultural and entertainment offerings of Irish cities. This variety of settings makes studying in Ireland a complete and diverse experience.

Ireland is a popular destination among students from all over the world, creating a multicultural and diverse environment. This international community will not only allow you to make friends from different countries and cultures but also help you improve your intercultural skills.

Interacting with other international students enriches your experience and prepares you for a globalized world.

One of the advantages of studying in Ireland is its geographical location. Ireland is part of the European Union and has excellent transport connections with the rest of the continent.

During your stay, you can take advantage of the opportunity to travel and visit other European countries easily, further enriching your cultural and educational experience.

Ireland offers the possibility of combining English studies with work opportunities. With the appropriate visa, international students can work part-time while studying, allowing them to gain work experience in an English-speaking environment and help finance their studies and stay in the country. This combination of study and work is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive experience.

Studying English in Ireland is a decision that will open doors both personally and professionally. The high-quality education, cultural and linguistic immersion, natural beauty, and work opportunities make Ireland an unparalleled destination for learning English.

General english courses in Ireland are designed to improve your language skills in everyday situations. These courses focus on developing key competencies such as conversation, listening comprehension, reading, and writing.

Classes are usually dynamic and participatory, with 20 hours per week focused on real-life language practice. Students can choose from different levels, from beginner to advanced, ensuring that everyone receives instruction suited to their level of knowledge.

Additionally, general English courses offer flexible schedules, allowing students to enjoy their free time exploring Ireland while learning.

For those who want to progress quickly in their English learning, intensive general English courses are the ideal option. These programs are more rigorous and require a greater commitment of time and effort. Sessions are usually longer, ranging from 25 to even 30 hours per week, providing total language immersion.

In addition to basic skills, these intensive courses may include specific modules such as business English, presentation skills, and interview preparation. The intensity of these courses allows students to achieve their language goals in a shorter period.

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the most recognized English exams worldwide. IELTS preparation courses in Ireland are designed to help students achieve the best possible scores on this exam. These courses focus on the four IELTS sections: listening comprehension, reading, writing, and speaking.

Instructors, who usually have extensive experience in IELTS preparation, provide specific strategies and practice exams to familiarize students with the format and question types they will face.

Upon completing the course, students will be well-prepared to obtain a score that allows them to access universities, jobs, and other professional opportunities.

The Cambridge preparation courses are intended for those seeking to obtain an internationally recognized certification such as the FCE (First Certificate in English), CAE (Certificate in Advanced English), or CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English). These courses are comprehensive and structured to cover all areas assessed in the Cambridge exams: use of English, reading, writing, listening comprehension, and speaking.

Students receive rigorous preparation, including regular practice with mock exams and detailed feedback from teachers.

Obtaining a Cambridge certification not only enhances the resume but also opens doors to academic and professional opportunities worldwide.

The Academic Year program is ideal for those who want a long-term immersion experience in Ireland. This course lasts between six and twelve months and is designed to provide a solid foundation in the English language while students live and study in an English-speaking environment.

The program combines English classes with cultural and social activities, facilitating complete immersion in Irish life. In addition to significantly improving their language skills, students have the opportunity to meet people from different cultures and form lasting international connections.

This course can also include preparation for international exams such as IELTS or Cambridge exams, depending on each student’s individual goals.

This course is designed for international students who wish to improve their English to excel in an academic environment. During the classes, participants develop key skills such as essay writing, understanding complex texts, note-taking, and participating in debates or presentations.

Additionally, the program may include preparation for exams such as IELTS or TOEFL, which are required to access universities in English-speaking countries.

With a practical approach and dynamic classes, students will be prepared to successfully face academic challenges in English while enjoying a unique experience abroad.

This course is aimed at international students and professionals seeking to improve their English in a business context.

Participants learn specialized vocabulary, techniques for writing emails and documents, negotiation skills, and how to communicate effectively in meetings, presentations, and calls.

The program focuses on real-life work situations, providing practical tools to stand out in the global market.

Studying in Ireland offers an ideal combination of intensive learning and cultural immersion in a professional and multicultural environment.

This course offers a fully personalized experience for those seeking learning focused on their specific needs.

Private lessons allow students to work on key areas such as conversation, grammar, pronunciation, or professional skills. With a dedicated teacher, students progress at their own pace and can tailor lessons to their personal or professional goals.

This flexible course combines personalized teaching with the unique cultural experience that Ireland offers.

If you have a European Union or Swiss passport, you do not need to meet special requirements to study English in Ireland. No visa is required, so you can choose your English school, pack your bags, and embark on your adventure without additional concerns.

Simply ensure you have a valid passport and your European Health Insurance Card to receive medical assistance if needed.

For citizens of Chile, Mexico, and Argentina, it is not necessary to apply for a visa before traveling to Ireland. However, there are certain formalities you must fulfill depending on the duration of your stay.

If you plan to stay in Ireland for up to 90 days, you can enter the country without a visa and will receive a tourist stamp in your passport upon arrival. This stamp is valid for 90 days and allows you to enjoy your English course without additional paperwork.

If your stay will be longer than 90 days, you must apply for the Irish Residence Permit (IRP) once you arrive in Ireland. The IRP is necessary to reside in the country for a longer period and allows you to work up to 20 hours per week during the course and full-time during holidays.

Citizens of Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador must obtain a visa before traveling to Ireland. Depending on the duration of your course and the type of visa required, the requirements may vary slightly.

If you plan to study in Ireland for up to 90 days, you can do so with a tourist visa. However, if your stay will last more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a student visa.

To obtain the student visa, also known as Stamp 2, you must meet the following requirements:

• Pay the visa fees, which range between 60 and 100 euros.
• Have a valid passport.
• Be enrolled in a course accredited by the Irish government, lasting at least 25 weeks.
• Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds for your stay, generally around 700 euros per month of stay or a minimum of 10,000 euros.
• Purchase medical insurance covering your entire stay in Ireland.
• Present a letter of intent explaining your reasons for studying in Ireland and your future plans.

Upon arrival in Ireland, after 90 days, you must apply for the Irish Residence Permit (IRP) to be able to work legally in the country. This document is essential for long-term residence and allows you to work up to 20 hours per week during the course and full-time during holidays.

At Dingoos, we assist you in every step of the process, from enrolling in your course to obtaining your visa and the necessary paperwork once in Ireland. Our team of experts will guide and support you, ensuring that your experience of studying English in Ireland is smooth and successful. Do not hesitate to contact us for personalized and free advice.

Castleforbes College is a well-known English school located in the heart of Dublin. With highly qualified teachers, this school offers high-quality education, always focused on the academic and personal development of its students.

Its most popular course among international students is General English, but it also offers exam preparation courses for IELTS, Cambridge, and more.

Castleforbes College provides an accommodation program for its students, so you can book your course and accommodation at the same time, choosing between staying in one of their student apartments or with an Irish host family—it’s up to you!

International House Dublin is one of the most committed institutions to teaching English internationally.

The International House campus is located in a modern five-story building and has more than 40 classrooms.

At International House, you can take intensive English courses, general English, IELTS and Cambridge exam preparation, and business English, among many others, always in small groups of up to 14 students per class.

EC English is the school for those who want to learn English in Dublin while enjoying the warmth of the Irish people.

At EC English, you can study English for a few weeks or up to a year. In addition to offering popular courses like General English, Intensive English, and IELTS and Cambridge exam preparation, EC English also provides specialized English courses, such as those designed for students over 30. The option to study English in Ireland as an adult is a great alternative for those who still have language learning on their to-do list.

Twin opened its doors in 2018 after more than 20 years of experience teaching English to international students in the UK.

Twin offers internship experiences, helping students find jobs in the hospitality sector.

This school provides a wide range of English courses, including General English, Intensive English, Corporate English, and exam preparation courses.

Eurocentres is located in the heart of Dublin, in a beautiful 19th-century building. This school offers various English courses, such as General English, Intensive English, and IELTS exam preparation. However, its specialty is 1:1 courses, where each student receives 100% personalized attention.

Nacel English School Dublin is situated in the beautiful coastal town of Dun Laoghaire, just 20 minutes from Dublin city center.

It is a family-run school, ideal for providing personalized attention to each student, helping them quickly improve their English skills.

Nacel English School organizes weekly excursions and activities where students can relax and practice English in a more casual setting.

ALL is an English school located in the coastal town of Dun Laoghaire (pronounced “Don Liri”), just 15 minutes by train from Dublin city center.

It is the perfect location to learn English in a peaceful environment near the sea.

ALL is a family-style school where you will quickly feel at home, as it offers many extracurricular activities to help you make friends and continue learning English in your free time.

At ALL, you can study General English, Intensive English, Business English, and IELTS exam preparation courses, among many others.

Kaplan International Collegeestá situada a tan solo 5 minutos del centro de Dublín y ofrece cursos de inglés intensivo, general, preparación para los exámenes de IELTS y Cambridge, cursos CELTA para profesores y cursos de inglés profesional.

Una de las grandes ventajas de esta escuela es que cuenta con horarios muy flexibles, permitiendo combinar trabajo y estudio a la perfección.

En sus aulas hay estudiantes de más de 50 nacionalidades diferentes y realizan excursiones y diversas actividades para que los estudiantes se conozcan ypuedan practicar inglés también fuera del aula

Delfin English School is located just five minutes from Dublin city center and offers Intensive English, General English, IELTS and Cambridge exam preparation courses, CELTA courses for teachers, and Business English courses.

One of the school’s greatest advantages is its highly flexible schedules, allowing students to perfectly balance work and study. With students from over 50 different nationalities, Kaplan organizes excursions and various activities to help students get to know each other and practice English outside the classroom as well.

Don’t miss Episode 3 of the third season of #LaHuella, the Dingoos podcast. Yago Quilez (podcast host) goes over everything you need to know about studying at Delfin English School alongside a very special guest: David Vázquez, Content Creator & Social Activities Executive at Delfin School.

Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city that blends history and modernity in a vibrant setting. Studying English in Dublin gives international students the opportunity to immerse themselves in an energetic atmosphere with countless cultural and social activities.

The city is home to some of the best English schools in the country, recognized for their high-quality education and wide variety of courses tailored to each student’s needs. Dublin offers a fascinating mix of ancient traditions and modern innovations. Students can explore historic sites like Trinity College and Dublin Castle or enjoy the lively nightlife in the famous Temple Bar district.

Additionally, Dublin is a very accessible city with an excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around. The friendliness of Dubliners and the city’s multicultural atmosphere create a welcoming environment where students feel at home from day one.

Cork, known as the “capital of the south,” is a city with a distinctive character and a friendly atmosphere. Studying English in Cork offers a more relaxed experience compared to Dublin but is equally enriching.

English schools in Cork are recognized for their personalized approach and dedication to high-quality education. Students can enjoy smaller class sizes and more individualized attention, leading to more effective and faster language learning.

The city is famous for its vibrant cultural scene and lively student life. The city center is filled with cafés, art galleries, theaters, and markets, providing plenty of opportunities to practice English in everyday situations.

Cork is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, including Killarney National Park and the Wild Atlantic Way, offering students opportunities for weekend adventures.

Located on Ireland’s west coast, Galway is known for its bohemian spirit and lively cultural scene. Studying English in Galway allows international students to experience a city that is both a cultural hub and a top-tier educational destination.

English schools in Galway focus on cultural and linguistic immersion, giving students the chance to learn English in an environment that celebrates music, art, and Irish traditions.

Galway is a lively and welcoming city, with festivals happening almost year-round, such as the Galway Arts Festival and the Galway International Film Festival.

The city’s proximity to stunning natural landscapes, including the Cliffs of Moher and Connemara National Park, allows students to explore and enjoy Ireland’s breathtaking scenery while improving their English skills.

Student residences provided by language schools are the most popular option for those who want a community living experience and greater interaction with other international students. These residences are usually located close to the school and offer amenities and services tailored to students’ needs.

In these residences, students can enjoy private or shared rooms, common areas such as living rooms and shared kitchens, internet access, and cleaning services. Living in your school’s student residence provides the opportunity to meet other international students and participate in social and cultural activities organized by the residence itself.

Additionally, since they are located near the school, student residences offer convenience and easy access to classes and other educational facilities.

Shared apartments are a popular option for students who prefer more independence and privacy during their stay in Ireland. Sharing an apartment with other students allows you to live in a more home-like environment and share expenses.

Living in a shared apartment gives you the freedom to organize your own space and schedule without the restrictions of a student residence. Sharing rent and household expenses with other students can be more economical than living alone or in a student residence.

Furthermore, sharing an apartment also means sharing responsibilities such as cleaning, grocery shopping, and home maintenance, which fosters teamwork and cooperation skills.

Hostels are an affordable and convenient option for students looking for a temporary stay or who wish to explore different cities in Ireland while studying. Hostels offer basic accommodation with shared facilities and are ideal for short stays or weekend trips.

Hostels are usually cheaper than other types of accommodation and offer nightly or weekly rates, making them ideal for short-term stays or tight budgets. Additionally, hostels provide flexibility regarding the duration of your stay since you can book per night and extend your stay as needed.

By staying in a hostel, you will have the opportunity to meet other travelers from around the world, which can enrich your experience and provide you with opportunities to practice English in a multicultural setting.

Living with an Irish host family is a popular option for those who want to fully immerse themselves in Irish culture and lifestyle. This option offers an authentic experience and the opportunity to practice English in a family environment.

Living with an Irish family gives you the chance to experience daily life, traditions, and Irish culture firsthand. By living with native English speakers, you will have the opportunity to practice and improve your language skills in a natural and authentic setting.

Host families often provide support and guidance to international students, helping them adapt to life in Ireland and providing a safe and welcoming environment.