LIFE IN IRELAND
Why choose Dublin for your language exchange program?
The capital of Ireland is the choice of many students looking to combine studies with leisure and work options.
English
Although English is a widely spoken language around the world, Ireland is one of the few countries in Europe that have English as their official language (along with only the UK and Malta), allowing students to experience and practice English in their daily lives.
Studies
Students enrolled in courses within the “ILEP” (Interim List of Eligible Programs) are entitled to a visa called “Stamp 2”, which gives permission to reside and work in Ireland. Most English courses provide the right to this visa, which lasts eight months and can be renewed twice. In total, the student is able to stay legally in the country for a period of 24 months.
After completing the maximum period as a language student, it is possible to continue studies and apply for undergraduate and graduate courses and remain in the country for the period that the course lasts. In the case of level courses QQI 8 to 10 (usually master's and PHD), the student can still remain in the country for two years after graduation with the right to work full time.
Work
Being able to work during the exchange not only helps students financially, it also provides cultural immersion making it easier to learn the language. Furthermore, the minimum wage per hour worked in Ireland is one of the highest in the European Union, yet another reason it attracts students from all over the world.
English students can work for up to 20 hours during the class period and up to 40 hours during the summer (June to September) and during the end of the year period (between December 15th and January 15th).
The most common jobs are in the service provision business, including bars, restaurants, cafes, cleaning and child care.
