Ireland

Study abroad in Ireland, famous for Irish dancing, lush green landscapes, and four-leaf clovers.

Why study in Ireland?

Ireland is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. After all, who can resist jaw-dropping scenery, friendly people, and fascinating culture? Home to 4.6 million people, The Republic of Ireland has around the same population as New Zealand. Like New Zealand, it’s a small country with a big heart and something beautiful around every corner.     

I think that I have developed a lot internally and further expanded my view of the world – externally I’m still the same old girl who loves learning, laughing and life, but I have learnt some huge life lessons that I will carry with me forever.

Rebecca, Hamilton

Placements

You can choose to study in Ireland for as little as four months or as long as one academic year. There are limited spots available in Irish schools for non-EU students, so it’s important to apply as early as possible. Most schools in Ireland have a Catholic religious ethos but all religious denominations (and none at all) are welcome.

We offer placements in the following counties: Cork, Galway, May, Louth, Meath, Kerry, Clare, Waterford, Wexford, Limerick, Tipperary and Kilkenny. You are welcome to let us know your preferred location but we cannot guarantee your preference will be met. Students will most likely be placed in lowly-populated suburbs or rural areas, although they may be placed in cities. All of our host families are carefully vetted for safety and suitability. We conduct home interviews, inspections, and police checks to ensure our students are placed in a secure and supportive environment.

 

We aren’t currently offering exchanges to the Republic of Ireland. Please check back again later.

Duration
Departs
Returns
Application deadline
Price

Covered expenses

Included in the fee:

  • Placement in a suitable host family and school
  • Full board and lodging with a host family
  • Pre-departure orientation in NZ and arrival orientation in Ireland
  • Meet and greet at the airport in NZ and at the airport in Ireland
  • Transfer to your host community from the airport (and back again)
  • Monthly progress reports to your parents
  • Ongoing pastoral care by the exchange providers
  • 24/7 emergency assistance in Ireland and NZ
  • Certificate of completion upon return

Other costs

Not included in the fee:

Flights You are responsible for paying all domestic and international airfares between your home and your host community in Ireland.
Insurance You will be required to purchase comprehensive travel and medical insurance prior to your departure.
Visas If a visa is required, you will be responsible for paying the necessary fees.
School setup Depending on your school and subject choices, you may be required to pay for expenses such as a uniform, extra-curricular activities, basic school fees, books, and equipment.
Spending money We recommend allocating approximately $450 NZD spending money per month to cover things like transport, school lunches, and weekend activities.
Optional trips It’s a good idea to save some money for optional trips organised by your host family or your host organisation in Ireland.

Eligibility

Students must be:

  • Aged between 15 and 17 years prior to the programme start date (and not turn 18 during the exchange)
  • A New Zealand Citizen or hold Permanent Residency
  • Enrolled in a high school
  • Fit, well, and have a suitable personality profile
  • Academically motivated

Visas

You do not require a visa prior to entering Ireland. However, the final discretion lies with the receiving immigration official as to whether you will be permitted entry or not. Our Irish affiliate will supply documentation to facilitate your entry on arrival. You must also register with the local police station to secure a visa extension for the duration of the programme.  

Financing and scholarships

We know that financing your exchange might be a bit of a challenge, but don’t let that hold you back from pursuing the experience of a lifetime! NZIIU offers a select number of scholarships each year to exceptional students who require some financial assistance, as well as fundraising kits.

Explore now »

NZIIU fundraising kit »

NZIIU Fundraising Kit

Meet our past students

Meet our NZIIU Student Ambassadors at one of our information day events! These students who have recently been on exchange have done it all, and are here to share their knowledge, experiences, and stories from exchange.

Learn More »