Learn English in Ireland
Schools, Costs & Visa Guide
Ireland is one of Europe's top English language learning destinations — a native English-speaking country in the EU, with world-class accredited language schools in Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Drogheda. Whether you're from Brazil, China, Saudi Arabia, or anywhere else in the world, this is your complete guide.
Pakistani nationals are currently not being granted Irish student visas for English language courses. If you are from Pakistan and want to improve your English for university entry, we recommend exploring online IELTS preparation resources (British Council Pakistan, Magoosh IELTS) and aiming to apply directly for a Foundation Year or undergraduate programme once your score is ready. This page is designed for students from other nationalities who are eligible for English language study visas in Ireland. Please visit our Undergraduate Guide or Foundation Courses Guide for pathways available to Pakistani students.
If you are a non-EU national who needs a student visa to study in Ireland, your English language school must be on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP). Only ILEP-listed courses can be used to obtain a Stamp 2 student visa. From 2025 onward, the ILEP is transitioning to the TrustEd Ireland accreditation scheme — check the school's website to confirm they hold current accreditation.
- 01 Choose an ILEP-accredited school — confirm on ILEP/TrustEd Ireland list
- 02 Enrol for a minimum of 25 weeks to be eligible for a Stamp 2 student visa with work rights (20 hrs/week)
- 03 Apply for Irish student visa online (AVATS) — bring letter of acceptance and proof of fees paid
- 04 Study, work part-time, and take a recognised exam at the end (TIE, IELTS, Cambridge) — mandatory for visa renewal
- 05 Maximum total stay for language study is 3 years — plan progression to a degree or work permit after
English Language Schools in Ireland
Below are well-established, ILEP-accredited English language schools in Ireland — with course options, pricing, and what makes each school distinctive for international students.
English Language Schools in Ireland
These schools are accredited for non-EU students. Always verify current ILEP/TrustEd Ireland status on the school's website before enrolling.
Liffey College's Academic Year Programme is designed specifically for non-EU students who need ILEP-accredited study for their visa. The fee is all-inclusive: medical expenses insurance, course fee protection insurance, TIE (Test of Interactive English) exam fee, college registration fee, e-learning access, and a Liffey College completion certificate. IELTS preparation classes, conversation workshops, CV preparation, and job hunting support are also included. Available in morning or more affordable afternoon schedule. |
The GE15 course at ICE is one of Ireland's most flexible English programmes — starting any Monday throughout the year, with durations from 1 week to a full academic year. This maximum flexibility makes ICE ideal for students with specific travel or visa start dates. Registration fee is €60 and includes a course textbook. For non-EU students, note that ICE must be on the current ILEP list for your visa to be valid — confirm directly with ICE before enrolling if you need a student visa. |
ELI Schools is one of Ireland's most accredited language providers — holding Eaquals accreditation (Europe's leading quality mark for language education), ALTO membership, and Enterprise Ireland client status. Awarded Eaquals accreditation for all three centres in 2026. Two campuses: Dublin city centre and Drogheda (40 minutes north of Dublin — lower cost of living). ELI is an Oxford Test of English approved preparation and test centre, offering tests for levels A2–C1 Advanced. Particularly strong for students seeking IELTS preparation alongside General English study. |
ILSC Dublin's Study & Work Ireland programme is specifically designed for non-EU students who want to combine English study with part-time work experience in Dublin. Students study 15 hours/week (morning or afternoon) and can legally work up to 20 hours during study periods and 40 hours during official holiday periods (June–September and mid-December to mid-January). Dublin's hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors are major employers of English language students. The visa can be renewed twice — allowing up to 2 years in Ireland on this basis. |
How Much Does English in Ireland Cost?
Prices vary between schools and depend on duration, schedule, and included extras. The table below shows typical ranges across accredited Dublin schools.
| Duration | Typical Fee Range (per week) | Total (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–4 weeks | €200–€250/week | €200–€1,000 | Short stay; higher weekly rate; no visa needed (<3 months) |
| 5–12 weeks | €180–€200/week | €900–€2,400 | Student visa required if >3 months; discount for longer stays |
| 13–24 weeks | €160–€180/week | €2,000–€4,300 | Standard ILEP range for visa students |
| 25 weeks (minimum for visa work rights) | €155–€175/week | €3,875–€4,375 | Stamp 2 with 20 hrs/week work rights |
| Full Academic Year (33–36 weeks) | €140–€165/week | €4,620–€5,940 | Best value; includes exam fees at many schools |
Who Can Study English in Ireland — EU vs Non-EU
The process is very different depending on whether you are from the EU/EEA or from outside it. Here is a clear breakdown.
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🇪🇺 EU / EEA / Swiss Students
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🌍 Non-EU / EEA Students (Visa Required)
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Other Accredited English Schools
These are further well-established ILEP-accredited English language schools across Dublin, Cork, and Galway. Always verify current ILEP/TrustEd status before enrolling.
English in Ireland — Your Questions Answered
Common questions from international students planning to study English in Ireland.