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High School Exchange in Ireland at a Glance
Experience a semester or full academic year at a high school in Ireland. Choose between a public school, private school, or boarding school — with personal guidance, structured support, and the opportunity to select the school that fits you best.
Duration: 3–12 Months
A high school exchange in Ireland is available as a term (approx. 3 months), a semester, or a full academic year. The Irish school year is divided into three terms.
Age Group: 13–18 Years
Our high school exchange program in Ireland is designed for students from across the world, aged 13 to 18 who want to study abroad at an Irish secondary school.
School Types: Public & Private
Choose between public high school, private school, or boarding school in Ireland. We support you in selecting the right school based on your interests & goals.
Visa for Ireland
EU citizens do not require a visa for a high school exchange in Ireland. A valid national ID card is sufficient. (Visa regulations may differ for non-EU students.)
Why Choose a High School Exchange in Ireland?
A high school exchange in Ireland combines high-quality education with unique culture and international experience. The safe environment, modern education system, and welcoming atmosphere make Ireland an ideal destination for your high school year abroad. Here are the key reasons why studying at a high school in Ireland is worth it:
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High-Quality Education
Ireland’s high schools are part of one of Europe’s strongest education systems. Modern facilities, dedicated teachers, and diverse subject options create an inspiring academic environment for exchange students.
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Safe & Welcoming Environment
Ireland is considered one of the safest countries in the world. Its open and friendly culture helps international students feel welcome and supported from the very beginning.
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Unique Culture & Nature
From breathtaking landscapes and historic cities to vibrant modern culture, Ireland offers the perfect setting for a transformative high school exchange experience. Dublin & many other locations are waiting for you.
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Strong for University & Career
Attending high school in Ireland strengthens your English skills, independence, as well as intercultural competence — qualities that open doors to international university pathways and global careers.
The comparison
Public or Private High School in Ireland?
During your high school exchange in Ireland, you can choose between public and private schools. Both options offer high academic standards — but differ in structure, environment, and campus life.
Public High Schools in Ireland
Part of the Irish state education system
Class sizes of approx. 20–25 students
Broad subject range (Mathematics, English, Sciences, & more subjects)
Modern facilities & strong sports programs
Strong integration into the local Irish community
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Public schools provide an authentic insight into the Irish education system and everyday student life.
Private High Schools & Boarding Schools
Often smaller class sizes
More individual academic support
Specialized programs (e.g. sports, music, sciences)
Modern campus infrastructure with boarding facilities
Strong international orientation
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Private schools often offer additional facilities and structured boarding communities for students who prefer on-campus living.
We Help You Make the Right Choice
Based on region, school size, subject preferences, sports offerings, or personal interests, we guide you toward the school that best matches your goals.
Please note: Each school has its own admission criteria and limited capacity. Alternative options may therefore be necessary.
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Ask Us Your Questions!
Finding a high school exchange program in Ireland on your own can be overwhelming. Is the school reputable? How does the application process work? Our experienced advisors guide you step by step — for students and parents alike.
Application Process
Your Path to a High School Exchange in Ireland
1.
Book a Consultation
Talk to your parents and schedule a joint, non-binding consultation with us to discuss your goals and options.
2.
Submit Your Application
Submit your documents — we carefully review everything and begin the school placement process based on your preferences.
3.
Secure Your Placement
Once accepted, your school place is confirmed. Your registration becomes binding after payment of the registration fee.
4.
Preparation & Departure
We send you all contractual documents and organize your placement at school and with your host family or boarding school.
Requirements & Application Documents
To successfully start your high school exchange in Ireland, you should meet the following requirements:
Requirements
Sufficient English language skills
Average or above-average academic performance
Positive attitude toward the exchange experience
Adaptability and openness
Documents Required (for Application)
School references
Completed English test with evaluation
School reports from the past two years
Initial deposit
Documents Required (after Acceptance)
Medical report
Photos
Copy of birth certificate
Signed contractual documents
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StudentsGoAbroad
Why you can rely on us
At StudentsGoAbroad, we have been supporting international internships and high school exchange programs — especially in Ireland — for many years. We are proud of a proven track record that students and parents can trust. As an experienced international placement agency, you can focus on enjoying your high school year in Dublin and other cities across Ireland — while we handle the structure and organization.
Here are six reasons why SGA is the right choice:
Specialist for international exchange programs since 2004
Recognized and established high school exchange programs
Competitive program pricing
Individual consultation & preparation support
Reliable coordinators in Ireland
Orientation programs on arrival
What Else You Should Know
Frequently Asked Questions About High School Exchange in Ireland
A high school exchange in Ireland is a big step — for students and parents alike. In our FAQ section, we answer the most important questions about the application process, accommodation, school placement, requirements, and support — so you can start your exchange year in Ireland fully prepared.
General Questions About High School Exchange in Ireland
How long does a high school exchange in Ireland last?
A high school exchange in Ireland is possible as:
one Term (approx. 3 months)
two Terms
one Semester
a full Academic Year
The Irish school year is divided into:
Autumn Term (September–December)
Spring Term (January–March/early April)
Summer Term (April–May/June)
Depending on your goals, you can choose how long you would like to study at a high school in Ireland.
What age is the high school exchange program in Ireland suitable for?
The program is designed for students between 13 and 18 years old who would like to attend a high school in Ireland for a semester or a full school year.
Do I need a visa for a high school exchange in Ireland?
If you are an EU citizen, you do not need a visa to attend high school in Ireland. A valid national ID card or passport is sufficient.
For non-EU citizens, visa regulations may differ. We provide individual guidance based on your nationality.
Accommodation & Support in Ireland
Where will I live during my high school exchange in Ireland?
A high school exchange in Ireland means not only attending school, but also having a new home away from home. Safety, structure, and personal support are our top priorities.
You can choose between:
🏡 Host Family
Most students live with carefully selected Irish host families during their exchange year.
Warm and welcoming family environment
Deep cultural immersion
Daily support and integration
Authentic Irish family life
Host families are screened and work closely with schools and local coordinators.
🏫 Boarding School
Alternatively, you can choose a boarding school in Ireland. Depending on the school, different models are available:
5-day boarding → weekends spent with a host family
12-day boarding → every second weekend with a host family
7-day boarding → some weekend closures
During mid-term breaks, students also stay with host families.
How am I supported during my exchange year in Ireland?
From your first day until the end of your program, you will have a dedicated local advisor in Ireland.
Experienced education professionals work closely with:
your high school
your host family
and us as your organization
to ensure that your high school exchange in Ireland is a positive, safe, and well-structured experience.
School & Placement
Can I choose my high school in Ireland?
Yes. Depending on your preferences (region, school size, languages, sports programs, etc.), we support you in selecting a suitable public or private high school in Ireland.
Please note that each school has its own admission criteria and limited availability.
How is my grade level determined?
Grade placement is decided by the Irish school and depends on your age at the start of the program.
Typical placements include:
Age 16 → usually 5th Year
Alternative → Transition Year
Age 17 → possibly 6th Year (final year)
Final placement may vary depending on the school.
Requirements & Application
What requirements do I need to meet?
To participate in a high school exchange in Ireland, you should:
Have sufficient English language skills
Show average or above-average academic performance
Have a positive attitude toward the exchange experience
Be adaptable and open-minded
What are the application deadlines?
School places in Ireland are limited. In general: the earlier you apply, the more options are available.
Boarding School
September start → application deadline early April
Private School
September start → application deadline early May
January start → application deadline early October
Public High School
August/September start → application deadline early May
January start → application deadline early October
What documents are required for the application?
For your application:
School references
English test with evaluation
School reports from the past two years
Initial deposit
After acceptance:
Medical report
Photos
Copy of birth certificate
Signed contractual documents
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