English & Irish Language Courses

Check the ILEP list

Non-EEA students can only get a student visa/Stamp 2 for courses on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP).

Look for quality marks

Schools with QQI recognition or membership of MEI (Marketing English in Ireland) follow quality standards.

Learner protection

Your school must protect your fees if it closes — ask how before you pay.

Exams

Many courses prepare you for IELTS, Cambridge or Duolingo English tests needed for jobs and universities.

Course length

At least 25 weeks of study with 15 hours of classes a week.

Proof of funds & insurance

Show you can support yourself and have private medical insurance.

Attendance

Attend at least 85% of classes or your permission can be at risk.

Time limits

Language students can hold Stamp 2 for a limited number of years in total — plan your next step early.

Part-time work

Up to 20 hours a week in term and 40 hours in holiday periods.

ETB English classes (ESOL)

Education and Training Boards offer free or low-cost English classes for adults living in Ireland.

Libraries

Public libraries are free to join and run conversation groups and online learning.

Language exchanges

Meet locals and other newcomers at conversation meet-ups in most towns.

Volunteering

A great way to practise English and make friends.

Gaeltacht summer courses

Short immersive courses in Irish-speaking areas, popular with students and families.

Adult classes

Organisations like Gael Linn and Conradh na Gaeilge run evening and online classes.

Children at school

Irish is taught in most schools; newcomer children may get an exemption in some cases.