Ireland, Academic Year/Semester/Trimester

Learn

Ireland has the highest percentage of students who attend school until the age of 18 of all other countries in Europe. Students will study a core curriculum consisting of: language, science, mathematics, history and geography plus the opportunity to pursue additional classes in social awareness, personal development and project work.

Extracurricular activities and sports are an integral part of the school system in Ireland. One afternoon a week is typically devoted to school sports. The sports offered will vary from school to school. Typical choices include: soccer, tennis, swimming, hockey, badminton, basketball, athletics (track and field), squash, and volleyball.

Schools in which AYUSA students are placed are carefully selected based on their academic record and their enthusiasm to accept students from other countries. Schools are required to meet certain educational standards based on an educational philosophy that encourages both academic achievement and personal development. AYUSA students are placed primarily in single-sex schools. Schools may be denominational, multi-denominational or non-denominational. Almost all schools require uniforms that can be purchased once you are in Ireland.

Experience

You will be welcomed with open arms in Ireland and treated as a true member of your host family. Participation in mealtimes is an event and as part of the family you will enjoy the meal and also help out when it is time for clean-up. To meet new people, students are encouraged to participate in other types of extracurricular activities including: dance, theater, music, debate, photography, and orienteering (navigating with a map and compass).

Ireland has a rich musical tradition which is thousands of years old. So be sure to catch a local band playing and listen for the history and patriotic themes that are being transmitted through song.

Program Details

A pre-departure orientation will be provided to help students plan for their study abroad trip to Ireland. AYUSA Study Abroad students are placed with carefully selected host families throughout Ireland. All students will have their own room and study area. A local representative will be assigned to each student for support and guidance during their program stay. Students do not need a visa to study in Ireland. However, once on program, they are required to apply for a residence permit for the duration of their stay. Students will be assisted in this process by a local program representative.

Current Irish government regulations require that all non EU students be placed in private schools during their exchange program. Private schools charge an additional monthly tuition that is not included in the AYUSA program cost. Tuition fees generally range between $250–500 per month and will be the responsibility of the student. All students enrolled in Irish high schools will be required to wear uniforms.

Requirements

• 15–18 years old (Students may not turn 19 before start of program)
• 2.5 GPA or higher (4.0 scale)
• Students enrolling as high school Seniors are placed in pre-college course work, please ask our Program Advisors for more information on how this requirement will affect your graduations requirements
• Flexible and mature personality; desire to be challenged, ability to remain open-minded and tolerant of cultural differences