Study English in Dublin: Top 5 Questions Answered
Dublin is one of the top cities to study English due to its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, 
an ideal place for international students to work and study. Some of the best English schools are located in Dublin City.
Irish people are known for their hospitality, their sense of humour, and willingness to help, which means students arriving in Dublin often feel at home very quickly. Irish people are happy to chat and will encourage you to practice your English. We also have a vibrant pub culture which makes it easy for visitors to join in with the locals, engage in chat, make new friends and experience the Irish way of life.
English language schools in Dublin offer seriously professional standards, vibrant student cultural life, and opportunities to work in the capital city of Ireland while studying. Whether you’re looking for affordable English courses in Dublin or trying to understand the visa requirements, this guide answers the top 5 most-searched questions including “what are the best English schools in Dublin”.
Here is our list of 5 questions most asked by students planning to study English in Dublin.
Question 1: How Much Does It Cost to Study English in Dublin?
If you’re wondering, “How much does it cost to study English in Dublin?”, the answer depends on the school, course duration, and additional expenses.
What are the normal tuition fees for English Courses in Dublin ?
- General English Course (20 lessons per week): About €265.00 per week
- Intensive English Course (25+ Lessons per week): About €320.00 per week
- IELTS & Cambridge Exam Preparation Courses: From €260.00 to €320.00per week
- Long-Term English Courses (6+ months): About €4,500.00
Other costs that you might need to consider when coming to Ireland to study English in Dublin:
- Registration Fees: €80.00
- Course Materials: €45.000
- Medical Insurance (Required for Non-EU Students): €130
- Accommodation & Living Costs: €1000 – €1,500 per month (explained later)
Tip: Some Dublin language schools offer discounts for long-term courses. Always check for promotions!
Question 2: Do I Need a Visa to Study English in Ireland?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and how long you plan to stay in Dublin.
For EU/EEA Students
- No visa required – you can study and work freely.
For Non-EU/EEA Students
- Short-Term English Course (Less than 90 Days): You may need a tourist visa depending on your country.
- Long-Term English Course (6+ Months): You must apply for a Stamp 2 Student Visa.
How to Apply for a Student Visa in Ireland?
- Enrol in an accredited English school in Dublin.
- Pay for your course before applying.
- Show proof of minimum savings in your bank account. This amount varies according to your country of nationality and the process you must follow for application. Students from Brazil, Japan, Mexico, South Korea (i.e. countries that do not need to apply IN ADVANCE for an entry visa to come to Ireland) must show that they have a savings balance of (at least) €4680.00. If you are a student from China, Türkiye, Mongolia, Peru, Ecuador, etc. then you must apply in advance for the study visa and you will be asked to show a savings balance of €10,000 as part of that visa application process.
- Get student medical insurance.
- Book an immigration appointment after arrival to receive your Irish Residence Permit (IRP).
For the latest visa information, visit INIS (Irish Immigration).
Find out if you need a visa to enter Ireland based on your nationality on the LIST OF COUNTRIES
Question 3: What Are the Best English Language Schools in Dublin?
Dublin is one of the most popular destinations for international students looking to improve their English skills. With its welcoming atmosphere, rich culture, and high-quality education, the city attracts thousands of students every year. If you’re considering studying English in Dublin, choosing the right school is essential. Here are some of the best English language schools in Dublin, all accredited and listed on Select Ireland, a trusted network of quality language schools in Ireland.
To help you choose, we’ve prepared a list of five of the best English language schools in Dublin based on the options available on Select Ireland, a list of the top five language schools in Ireland.
Horner School of English
Location: Dublin City Centre
The Horner School of English is one of Dublin’s most respected language schools and operating since 1993. Horner School is known for its small class sizes, high-quality teaching, and family-run atmosphere. The school is located in a beautiful Georgian building in the city centre, providing a welcoming and professional learning environment for adults and professionals.
Courses Offered: General English, Business English, IELTS & Cambridge Exam Preparation, Erasmus+ Training Courses.
Why Choose Horner School?
- Horner School focuses on courses for adults.
- ACELS-accredited & a member of English Education Ireland (MEI)
- Small class sizes for personalised learning.
- Highly experienced teachers
- A great mix of international students
- The average age at the school is 25+
Atlas Language School
Location: Portobello House, Dublin 2
Why Choose Atlas?
- Award-winning school with a strong academic reputation.
- Offers General English, Exam Preparation (IELTS, Cambridge), and Business English.
- Social and cultural programs to help students practice English in real-life settings.
Centre of English Studies (CES Dublin)
Location: Dame Street, Dublin 2
Why Choose CES?
- Over 40 years of experience teaching international students.
- Recognized by ACELS and EAQUALS, ensuring high teaching standards.
- Located in Dublin city centre, close to major attractions.
ATC Language Schools
Locations: Dublin & Bray
ATC Language Schools offer a range of General English, Business English, and Exam Preparation courses (IELTS, Cambridge). With modern classrooms and highly qualified teachers, ATC is a popular choice for students looking for interactive and practical learning. They also provide excellent accommodation options, including host families and student residences.
Why Choose ATC?
- ACELS-accredited & a member of MEI
- Small class sizes for personalized learning
- Great mix of nationalities for an international experience
Emerald Cultural Institute
Location: Palmerston Park, Dublin 6
Why Choose Emerald?
- Offers a wide range of courses, including English for Professionals and Young Learners.
- Beautiful historic campus with modern facilities.
- Personalized learning experience with highly qualified teachers.
Question 4: Can I Work While Studying in Dublin?
Yes! One of the biggest advantages of studying English in Dublin is the opportunity to work while studying, which helps students cover living expenses, gain work experience, and improve their English skills in real-life situations.
Work Rules for Non-EU Students:
If you are a non-EU/EEA student, you can work under certain conditions while studying in Ireland. To be eligible, you must:
- Be enrolled in a full-time English course of at least 25 weeks (6 months).
Attend a school that is listed on the ILEP (Interim List of Eligible Programmes).
Have a Stamp 2 Student Visa, which allows you to work legally in Ireland.
Working Hours Allowed for Non-EU Students:
- Term Time: Up to 20 hours per week.
Holiday Periods (June–September & 15 Dec–15 Jan): Up to 40 hours per week (full-time).
Many students use their holiday period to work extra hours and save money for their studies and living expenses.
How Much Can Students Earn in Dublin?
Ireland has a strong job market, and students can find employment in various industries, particularly in hospitality, retail, and customer service.
- Minimum wage in Ireland (2025): €12.70 per hour.
A listing of Common student jobs:
- Cafés & Restaurants – Waiter, barista, kitchen assistant.
- Retail Stores – Sales assistant, cashier, stockroom worker.
- Customer Service – Call centres, receptionists.
- Hotels & Hospitality – Housekeeping, front desk, catering staff.
For students who have fluent English or specific skills, there are also higher-paying opportunities in areas like administration, marketing, and IT.
How to Find a Job as a Student in Dublin
If you’re looking for work, here are some ways to increase your chances of getting hired:
Where to Apply for Jobs?
- Check online job boards like Indeed.ie, Jobs.ie, and Gumtree.ie.
- Visit local cafés, restaurants, and shops—many places hire by word of mouth.
- Use social media groups and LinkedIn for job openings.
- Ask your language school if they offer career guidance or job placement services.
What You Need to Work Legally in Ireland:
- PPS Number (Personal Public Service Number) – This is required for tax and social security.
Irish Bank Account – Needed to receive your salary.
Work Permit (If Necessary) – For students working beyond their visa restrictions.
Tip: Many students start by working in hospitality (bars, restaurants, and cafés), as these jobs often do not require previous experience and offer flexible hours.
Gaining Work Experience & Improving Your English
Working while studying not only helps financially but also provides valuable experience that can be useful for future job opportunities. It’s also a great way to:
- Improve your spoken English in a professional setting.
Meet new people and expand your social and professional network.
Gain experience for your CV, making it easier to find a better job in the future.
Question 5: What Is the Cost of Living in Dublin for Students?
Dublin is an expensive city, but here’s what you can expect in terms of student living costs:
Accommodation Costs:
🏠 Host Family: Approx. €1000 for 4 weeks (includes meals)
🏠 Student Residence: Approx. €1600 for 4 weeks (self catering)
🏠 Shared Apartment: Approx. €1100 month. (utilities and services extra)
Other Living Expenses:
• Transport (Leap Card): €128/month
• Groceries: €200 – €300/month
• Phone & Internet: €30 – €50/month
• Social Activities: €100 – €300/month
Money-Saving Tips:
• Use student discounts on transport & entertainment.
• Cook at home & buy second-hand books.
• Find a part-time job in Dublin to support expenses.
