With a long history of providing quality education, Ireland has developed an educational system that is both challenging and supportive of the individual needs of its students.
Ireland offers various educational opportunities, from early childhood learning to secondary and tertiary education.
In this guide, we will provide an overview of the Ireland education system, the cost and the requirements for studying in Ireland.
Table of Contents
- Ireland education system
- Secondary education
- Cost of studying in Ireland for international students
- Requirements for studying in Ireland
- Conclusion
- Frequently asked questions
Ireland education system
The Ireland education system is one of the most advanced and comprehensive in the world. It is divided into primary, secondary and tertiary education, with each level offering different types of educational opportunities.
Primary education
The primary education system in Ireland is based on the National Education System, which the Department of Education and Skills oversees.
Primary education is compulsory for children aged 4-12 and is divided into two stages: junior and senior.
Junior primary education is made up of junior infants (ages 4-5), senior infants (ages 5-6), and first class (ages 6-7). During these years, students are introduced to the core curriculum of English, Maths, Science, Geography, History, and Religious Education. Music, Art, Physical Education, and Home Economics are also taught, as well as the Irish language.
Senior primary education consists of the second class (ages 7-8), third class (ages 8-9), fourth class (ages 9-10), fifth class (ages 10-11), and sixth class (ages 11-12). During these years, students are expected to build upon the core curriculum, learning more in-depth content in all subject areas. They also begin to develop their skills in creative and expressive subjects such as performing arts, design, and technology.
At the end of primary school, students participate in the State Examinations Commission (SEC) Primary School Leaving Certificate Examination. This assesses their knowledge and skills in the core subjects and is used as a benchmark for their future schooling.
→ Explore upcoming intakes in Ireland
Secondary education
Secondary education in Ireland is compulsory from the ages of 14 to 18 and is divided into two levels: The junior cycle and the senior cycle, which lasts for two years.
Junior cycle
The junior cycle is for students aged 12-15 and consists of three years of education. During this time, students study a range of core subjects such as English, Irish, Maths, Science, History, Geography and Physical Education. They also have the opportunity to choose two or three additional subjects from a range of options, including Business, Home Economics, Music, Art, and Technology.
Senior cycle
The senior cycle is for students aged 15-18 and consists of two years. During this time, students can study either the Leaving Certificate or the Leaving Certificate Applied. The Leaving Certificate is the traditional route in Ireland which includes core subjects and a range of subjects chosen by the students. The Leaving Certificate Applied is a more vocational route and includes a range of subjects such as Work Experience and Applied Maths.
In Ireland, secondary education is provided by a mix of public and private schools. The state funds public schools, while tuition fees fund private schools.
Tertiary education
The Irish tertiary education system comprises universities, technology institutes, and private colleges. All of these institutions offer a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, diplomas and certificate programs.
Universities
There are seven universities in Ireland, four of which are publicly funded and three of which are private. These universities are the University College Dublin (UCD), the National University of Ireland (NUI), Trinity College Dublin (TCD), University College Cork (UCC), University of Limerick (UL), Dublin City University (DCU), and Maynooth University (MU). These universities offer a wide range of degree and diploma programs in various disciplines, including arts, business, education, engineering, law, medicine and science.
Institutes of technology
The institutes of technology are the second type of tertiary education institution in Ireland. There are 14 institutes of technology located throughout the country, each offering a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate degree, diploma and certificate programs in areas such as engineering, business, computing, science and the creative arts.
Private colleges
The third type of tertiary education institution in Ireland is the private college. These colleges are often owned and managed by religious orders and offer a variety of courses in areas such as business, hospitality, health studies, nursing, and engineering.
Specialized colleges
In addition to the three main types of tertiary education institutions, a number of specialized colleges offer courses in specific areas such as hotel management, agriculture and veterinary science. These specialized colleges are often affiliated with universities and institutes of technology.
Cost of studying in Ireland for international students
The estimated cost of studying in Ireland for international students is around €10,000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the type of course and institution. This includes tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, food and other miscellaneous expenses.
Tuition fees
Tuition fees in Ireland are generally cheaper than in many other countries. For undergraduate courses, the fee ranges from €7,000 to €20,000 per year, while postgraduate courses cost up to €25,000 per year.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Ireland can range from €2,000 to €5,500, depending on the type of accommodation chosen. This can include dorms, student residences, flats, or private rental options.
Transportation
Transportation in Ireland is relatively inexpensive. Depending on the mode of transportation chosen (bus, train, taxi, etc.), the cost can range from €150 to €300 per year.
Food
Food costs vary depending on the type of food, eating habits and lifestyle. The estimated monthly food cost for international students in Ireland is approximately €150 to €200.
Miscellaneous expenses
Miscellaneous expenses such as textbooks, student fees, and other living expenses can add up to €1,000 to €2,000 per year.
Overall, the cost of studying in Ireland for international students is relatively affordable compared to other countries. With proper planning and budgeting, students can manage their expenses and make their stay in Ireland comfortable and enjoyable.
Requirements for studying in Ireland
There are several requirements you must meet to be eligible to study in Ireland.
1. Visa
Depending on your nationality, you may need to obtain a visa to study in Ireland. EU/EEA citizens are not required to obtain a visa, while non-EU/EEA citizens must obtain a student visa. All applicants must have a valid passport and provide proof of financial means to cover their living expenses while in Ireland.
2. Proof of academic qualifications
You must provide proof of your academic qualifications to study in Ireland. This includes copies of official transcripts, diplomas, and other documents related to your academic achievements.
3. English language requirements
You must demonstrate proficiency in English. Depending on the program, you may need to take an English proficiency test such as the IELTS or the TOEFL.
4. Health insurance
All students must have valid health insurance while studying in Ireland. Your school can provide this, or you can purchase private health insurance.
5. Tuition fees
All students must pay tuition fees in order to study in Ireland. The fees vary depending on the program and university you are applying to.
6. Accommodation
You must also provide proof of accommodation in Ireland. This can be provided by the university or through private sources.
Also read: Study in Ireland without IELTS
Conclusion
The Ireland education system focuses on providing students with a broad range of quality educational opportunities, from early childhood education to third-level education. With a highly qualified and experienced teaching staff, a modern curriculum and support services, the Ireland education system provide an excellent foundation for students to reach their potential. In addition, Ireland's commitment to education ensures that students are well-prepared to face future challenges.
Frequently asked questions
What are the different levels of the Ireland education system?
The Ireland education system is divided into primary, secondary and tertiary education, with each level offering different types of educational opportunities.
What do junior and senior primary education consists of?
Junior primary education is made up of junior infants (ages 4-5), senior infants (ages 5-6), and first class (ages 6-7), while senior primary education consists of second class (ages 7-8), third class (ages 8-9), fourth class (ages 9-10), fifth class (ages 10-11), and sixth class (ages 11-12).
What is the cost of studying in Ireland for international students?
The estimated cost of studying in Ireland for international students is around €10,000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the type of course and institution. This includes tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, food and other miscellaneous expenses.
