Ireland – Education and Schools

How good is the education system in Ireland?

Ireland’s schools enjoy a strong standing on the world stage and regularly outshine many comparable systems. An OECD review concluded that Ireland delivers educational outcomes that surpass those of numerous other member countries, while also demonstrating a relatively equitable distribution of results across socio-economic groups — a combination that distinguishes it from many peer nations.

The OECD’s PISA assessments — which evaluate 15-year-olds in reading, mathematics, and science on a triennial basis — present a particularly flattering picture of Irish students. In the PISA 2022 results, Ireland tied Japan for second place globally in reading, with a score of 516. Within the EU, Estonia and Ireland are singled out as outstanding examples of sustained improvement over time.

Rates of tertiary attainment are equally impressive. The proportion of 25–64 year-olds in Ireland who have completed third-level education is among the highest recorded across OECD and partner countries, placing Ireland 2nd out of 40 countries. Grade repetition is also remarkably rare: just 0.4% of primary pupils and 0.1% of lower secondary students repeat a year, well below the OECD averages of 1.5% and 2.2% respectively.

Targeted policy interventions have made meaningful inroads into socio-economic gaps in educational achievement, though disparities between schools in disadvantaged communities and those in more affluent areas continue to present a challenge. The latest PISA findings and national inspection reports are available through Ireland’s Department of Education and Youth and the OECD PISA portal.

At what age is education compulsory in Ireland, and how is schooling structured by age?

In Ireland, school attendance is legally required for all children between the ages of six and sixteen, or until pupils have completed three years of second-level study, including at least one sitting of the Junior Certificate examination. In practice, the vast majority of children begin school well before the legal minimum age.

Early Childhood (ages 0–6): The Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme is a free, universally available two-year preschool initiative open to all children within the qualifying age bracket. It gives children their first taste of structured early learning before they begin primary school. Attendance is not a legal requirement, but participation rates are very high.

Primary School (ages 4/5–12): Most children begin primary school at four or five years old, entering a Junior Infants class depending on parental preference. The primary cycle spans eight years in total: Junior Infants, Senior Infants, and First through to Sixth Class.

Post-Primary / Secondary School (ages 12–18): Second-level education comprises the Junior Cycle (ages 12–15) and Senior Cycle (ages 15–18), equipping students for university entry or vocational pathways. Between these two cycles sits an optional Transition Year. This one-year programme allows each school to design its own TY curriculum around the interests and needs of its students, offering an experience distinct from standard exam-focused study.

Further and Higher Education: Beyond second level, students can progress to universities, institutes of technology, or vocational training providers. A broad range of further education and training programmes is also available for adult learners and school leavers who prefer alternatives to academic degree study.

What types of schools are available in Ireland?

The Irish school landscape is more diverse than it may first seem. While the great majority of schools are publicly funded, there are notable differences in governance, ethos, and religious character. Every child in Ireland is entitled to free primary and post-primary schooling.

State-Funded (Free) Schools: These account for the overwhelming proportion of schools in Ireland. Public sources provide 99% of total expenditure on primary institutions — above the OECD average of 93%. Despite this level of public funding, many state schools retain a religious ethos, historically Catholic in nature, though this is gradually changing. Over 88% of schools in the Irish system are Catholic-affiliated; however, pupils retain the right to withdraw from religious instruction lessons.

Educate Together Schools: These multi-denominational, equality-based schools have expanded rapidly in response to growing demand for non-religious options. They are state-funded and free to attend, drawing families from a wide range of backgrounds and beliefs.

Gaelscoileanna and Gaelcholáistí (Irish-medium schools): These publicly funded schools deliver all subjects through the Irish language, at both primary and post-primary level. They attract families who value bilingual education, including some from non-Irish backgrounds.

DEIS Schools: For the 2024/2025 school year, the total number of primary schools in the DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) programme is 961. These schools receive supplementary state funding to support pupils at risk of educational disadvantage, while following the same national curriculum as every other state school.

Fee-Paying Private Schools: Parents seeking particular schools may also choose from private fee-paying institutions or opt for home education. There are 34 fee-paying private schools in Dublin, most concentrated in the south of the city and county. Fees differ considerably — always contact individual schools for up-to-date figures.

Vocational and Community Schools: At post-primary level, families can choose from secondary, vocational, community, or comprehensive schools. Vocational schools, administered by Education and Training Boards, and community or comprehensive schools generally offer a wider range of subjects that blend practical and technical courses with academic options.

What curriculum and qualifications do schools in Ireland follow?

All publicly funded primary schools deliver the same national curriculum — a broad, learner-centred programme that spans language, mathematics, social and environmental studies, science, the arts, physical education, and social, personal and health education (SPHE). Unlike more prescriptive national frameworks used in some other countries, it grants teachers considerable freedom in how they approach subject delivery.

At post-primary level, the curriculum is overseen by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA). The Junior Cycle (ages 12 to 15) covers a wide range of subjects including English, Irish, Mathematics, Science, and modern languages. Assessment combines classroom-based evaluations with end-of-cycle examinations, and students receive a Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement (JCPA) rather than a traditional grades-and-points certificate.

The Senior Cycle concludes with the Leaving Certificate Examination — Ireland’s principal school-leaving qualification. Students study six to eight subjects during the Senior Cycle, with English and Mathematics required, and sit examinations at the end of the cycle. Each subject result earns a points score, and these are totalled to produce an aggregate; third-level institutions then set the minimum points required for entry to each course, and students who meet that threshold secure a place.

The Leaving Certificate is accepted by universities and colleges in Ireland, the UK, and many other countries worldwide. In terms of its role as a university admissions qualification, it is broadly comparable to A-levels in England or the French Baccalauréat, though the competitive points-based entry mechanism is a distinctive feature of the Irish system. Several new second-level subjects were introduced in 2025, including Drama, Film and Theatre Studies, with further additions planned for phased rollout between September 2025 and 2029.

For families seeking internationally recognised alternatives, the Lycée Français d’Irlande in Clonskeagh and the Nord Anglia International School in Leopardstown both offer the International Baccalaureate (IB), which is accepted by universities across the globe and is a practical choice for families who may relocate again after Ireland.

What are typical school hours and holidays in Ireland?

Schools operate Monday to Friday. The school day typically begins between 8:30 am and 9:30 am. A standard primary school day runs for 5 hours and 40 minutes, though children in infant classes generally have a shorter day. Post-primary schools tend to run slightly longer hours, with most finishing between 3:30 pm and 4:00 pm, though this varies from school to school.

Lunch arrangements are handled differently across schools. Some provide supervised lunch on the premises, while others permit older students to leave for the midday break. Where a school participates in the School Meals Scheme, children can receive a daily hot meal — though all primary schools are eligible, not all have joined the scheme.

The academic year generally runs from early September to late June and is divided into three terms. The principal holiday periods are as follows:

• Summer holidays: Late June to early September (approximately 10–12 weeks)
• Mid-term breaks: One week in late October/early November, and one week in mid-February
• Christmas holidays: Approximately two weeks over the Christmas and New Year period
• Easter holidays: Approximately two weeks in spring

Exact dates can differ slightly between schools. The Department of Education publishes the official school year calendar annually — consult the Department of Education and Youth website for the most current term dates.

How do you enrol a child in school in Ireland?

School admissions in Ireland are primarily governed by the Education (Admission to Schools) Act 2018, which standardised enrolment procedures and introduced greater transparency across the system. Every school publishes its own admissions policy in accordance with this legislation.

The general steps involved in enrolling a child in an Irish state school are as follows:

1. Research local schools: Identify suitable primary or post-primary schools in your area. You may apply to any school of your choosing, provided a place is available, so beginning the process early is strongly recommended.
2. Check the school’s admissions policy: Each school publishes its policy setting out how places are allocated when demand exceeds availability — for example, giving priority to siblings of current pupils, to children within a defined catchment area, or on the basis of religious affiliation. Read this carefully before applying.
3. Submit an application: Apply directly to the school, usually by completing its application form within the advertised timeframe — often during autumn or winter ahead of a September start.
4. Provide supporting documentation: Schools typically require a copy of the child’s birth certificate, proof of address (such as a utility bill or tenancy agreement), vaccination records, and any previous school reports or transfer documents. Requirements vary, so confirm with each school individually.
5. Await an offer: The school will issue offers in line with its published admissions policy. If your child does not receive a place at your preferred school, they must be added to the waiting list, and you are free to apply elsewhere simultaneously.
6. Accept the place and complete registration: Once you accept an offer, the school will outline what is needed to finalise the enrolment and advise of any further documentation required.

Competition for places can be fierce in certain parts of the country, especially Dublin and other rapidly growing cities. Families relocating to high-demand areas should begin the enrolment process as early as possible — ideally before arriving in Ireland. The Tusla Child and Family Agency has a statutory duty to assist families who are struggling to secure a school place. Always confirm current requirements with individual schools and the Department of Education and Youth.

What international schools are available in Ireland?

Ireland has a modest but growing number of international and independent schools, the majority located in Dublin. These institutions cater to families who want a home-country curriculum, an internationally recognised qualification, or a school community with a genuinely global character.

The main international schools and relevant options include:

• The Lycée Français d’Irlande (Dublin): Delivers the French national curriculum alongside the International Baccalaureate, serving both the French-speaking community and internationally minded families more broadly.
• Nord Anglia International School Dublin (Leopardstown): An innovative school with a notably low pupil-to-teacher ratio, catering primarily to the children of senior executives and diplomats. It offers the International Baccalaureate.
• St. Kilian’s Deutsche Schule (Dublin): A German-language school following the German national curriculum.
• The International School of Dublin and other independent schools offering programmes outside the Irish national curriculum framework.

A small number of Dublin’s private secondary schools offer alternatives to the Leaving Certificate — the Lycée Français d’Irlande and the Nord Anglia International School both award only the International Baccalaureate. Given its broad acceptance by universities worldwide, the IB is a sensible option for families who anticipate moving on from Ireland at some point.

Fees at international schools vary considerably. As a general indication (as of 2025), annual tuition at international schools in Ireland typically falls somewhere between approximately €8,000 and €25,000 or more per year, depending on the institution and year group. Always request current fee schedules directly from each school, as these figures change and differ substantially. To locate accredited international schools in Ireland, consult the Council of International Schools (CIS) directory or the International Schools Consultancy (ISC) database.

What higher education options are available in Ireland?

Ireland’s higher education sector is well-developed and internationally respected. Third-level study is provided by universities — including the University of Dublin and its constituent Trinity College, widely regarded as one of Ireland’s and the world’s leading institutions — as well as institutes of technology and colleges of education. Several Irish universities feature regularly in global rankings.

The country has seen a notable growth in its international student population, with the share of international or foreign students in tertiary education climbing from 9.6% to 12.4% between 2018 and 2023, surpassing the OECD average. This reflects Ireland’s growing appeal as a destination for higher study and means expat students typically find a well-established international presence on Irish campuses.

Entry to higher education is primarily managed through the Central Applications Office (CAO), which allocates places based on Leaving Certificate points. International students who have followed a different educational path — such as A-levels, the IB, or another national qualification — may also apply through the CAO or directly to individual institutions using their own credentials. Each institution determines its own entry requirements for international applicants.

The fee structure depends on a student’s residency status:

• Free Fees Initiative: Students who qualify — broadly those who are EEA, Swiss, or UK nationals and have been resident within the EEA for at least three of the five years preceding the start of their course — can attend state-funded undergraduate programmes without paying tuition. The maximum annual student contribution is capped at €2,500 (as of 2025).
• EU Fee Rates: Students who fall outside the Free Fees Initiative may still qualify for EU fee rates, which are set individually by each third-level institution — contact the institution concerned to establish whether you are eligible.
• Non-EU Fees: Those who do not meet the criteria for either of the above categories are charged non-EU fees, which differ considerably by institution and subject area. Postgraduate fees for international students can range from around €10,000 to €35,000 or more per year depending on the course. Always verify current figures directly with universities.

Leading institutions include Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin (UCD), University College Cork (UCC), NUI Galway, Dublin City University (DCU), and the Technological Universities. For authoritative information on entry requirements and fees, visit the Central Applications Office (CAO) and the Higher Education Authority (HEA).

What should expat parents know about language of instruction in Ireland?

English is the primary medium of instruction in Irish state schools, which means children who arrive with a reasonable command of English can typically slot into mainstream schooling without encountering significant language obstacles. This use of English as the teaching language is one of the main reasons many expat families find the move to Irish schools relatively straightforward.

Irish (Gaeilge) is also an official language of the state and a compulsory subject in most state schools from primary level upwards. All children in mainstream state schools are expected to study Irish throughout their education. The number of secondary school students granted exemptions from Irish language study has reached a record high of 60,946, reflecting the substantial proportion of pupils from non-Irish-speaking households. Exemptions are available under certain conditions, including for children who have arrived in Ireland recently and for those with certain learning difficulties — contact the school or the Department of Education for current eligibility criteria.

Schools are expected to support children who arrive with limited English. The Department of Education funds English Language Support (ELS) teachers in schools where significant numbers of pupils speak English as an additional language. The level of provision varies between schools and regions, so it is worth asking any prospective school directly what English language support is available.

Families who prefer instruction through a different language can consider Irish-medium schools (Gaelscoileanna) for a bilingual experience, or international schools such as the Lycée Français d’Irlande or St. Kilian’s Deutsche Schule, which teach through French and German respectively. As part of Ireland’s Languages Connect strategy, four new Leaving Certificate language subjects — Lithuanian, Mandarin Chinese, Polish, and Portuguese — were introduced from September 2020, a development that reflects the increasingly diverse cultural make-up of Irish schools.

What financial support or subsidies are available for education in Ireland?

Every child residing in Ireland has the right to free, state-funded primary and secondary schooling. This entitlement extends to all children legally resident in the state, irrespective of their nationality or their parents’ immigration status, and represents one of the most significant financial benefits of enrolling children in the Irish state system.

Children who meet the age requirements can also access free preschool education through the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Scheme. The universal ECCE programme supports more than 108,000 children annually. For private childcare beyond the ECCE scheme, financial assistance is available through the National Childcare Scheme (NCS).

While tuition at state schools carries no charge, families may still face certain additional costs. These can include voluntary contributions — schools may request an annual payment, though parents are under no obligation to pay — as well as uniforms and learning materials. The Free Schoolbooks Scheme has been extended as of 2025 and now covers students in transition and senior cycles, substantially cutting book-related expenses at secondary level.

At third level, qualifying for free fees requires that students have been living in an EEA member state, Switzerland, or the UK for at least three of the five years immediately preceding the start of their course. Those who qualify pay only the annual student contribution, which is capped at €2,500 as of 2025. Tax relief on tuition fees is available, and families who pay student contributions for more than one child in the same year may also claim relief on the second and any further contributions.

For the most current information on entitlements, grants, and financial assistance, visit Citizens Information and the Department of Education and Youth. The Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) office administers grant support for students in higher education.

Frequently asked questions about education in Ireland for expats

Will my child struggle if they don’t speak Irish (Gaeilge)?

Irish is a compulsory subject in most state schools, but children who have arrived in Ireland recently may qualify for an exemption from studying it. The school or the Department of Education can advise on how to apply for an exemption. All other subjects are taught in English, so children with a solid grasp of English should be able to join mainstream lessons without undue difficulty.

How do I find out if there is a school place available in my area?

Get in touch with local schools directly and review each school’s admissions policy before submitting an application. In high-demand locations such as Dublin, places can fill up quickly. If you are unable to secure a place, the Tusla Child and Family Agency (tusla.ie) has a statutory obligation to help families find a school. Start the process as early as you can — preferably before you relocate.

Are there waiting lists for state schools in Ireland?

Yes, in many urban areas — Dublin in particular — well-regarded primary and secondary schools are regularly oversubscribed and maintain waiting lists. Schools publish their admissions criteria, with siblings of current pupils typically given priority. Families moving to cities are strongly advised to plan ahead and apply to several schools at once.

Will my child’s foreign school qualifications be recognised in Ireland?

Foreign qualifications are frequently accepted for entry to Irish higher education. The CAO recognises a wide range of international credentials, including A-levels, the IB, and many European and international school certificates. Individual universities may also offer direct application routes. Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) provides formal recognition assessments for professional and vocational qualifications — visit qqi.ie for guidance.

Can expat adults study at Irish universities on the same terms as local students?

Eligibility for free fees and the capped student contribution is determined by residency history and nationality rather than by whether someone identifies as an expat. To access the Free Fees Initiative, a student must have been resident in the EEA, Switzerland, or the UK for at least three of the five years prior to beginning their course, and must satisfy certain nationality or immigration status requirements. Contact the HEA and your chosen institution for the most current eligibility criteria, as these may change.

What childcare options are available for children under school age?

Children aged approximately two and a half to five and a half are eligible for the free ECCE preschool programme (confirm current age thresholds with the Department of Children). For younger children and for hours beyond the ECCE allocation, families can choose from a variety of private crèches, childminders, nurseries, and community childcare providers. The National Childcare Scheme (NCS) offers subsidised childcare for qualifying families. Visit ncs.gov.ie for current subsidy rates.

Do private schools in Ireland follow the same curriculum as state schools?

The majority of private secondary schools in Ireland prepare students for the Leaving Certificate, placing their pupils in direct competition with those from state schools for university places. A small number of private schools offer alternative qualifications, such as the International Baccalaureate or A-levels. Always check what curriculum and qualifications a school delivers before committing to enrolment.

How does the Leaving Certificate compare to qualifications from other countries?

The Leaving Certificate serves broadly the same function as A-levels (England, Wales, Northern Ireland), the French Baccalauréat, the German Abitur, or the South African National Senior Certificate — it is the primary school-leaving and university entry qualification in Ireland. It is recognised by universities in Ireland, the UK, and many countries beyond. Students can apply to Irish universities via the CAO system and to UK universities through UCAS using their Leaving Certificate results.