High School Programme
Transforming lives through education, one student at a time
Since our establishment in 1998, we have welcomed students into our High School Programme from around the world, transforming lives through the power of education. Our unwavering commitment to excellence has empowered our students to achieve success.
At International House Dublin, we are dedicated to providing an exceptional learning experience. We ensure our students receive the highest quality education by fostering an environment that supports growth and promotes success.
Wide Selection of Top High Schools
We offer an excellent choice of high schools, giving students the opportunity to find the perfect fit for their academic and personal growth.
Highly Qualified Management and Guardianship Team
Our team of experts provides exceptional management, guardianship, and counseling, ensuring each student receives the best possible guidance and care.
Outstanding Student Welfare
We prioritise student welfare, providing exceptional care and attention to ensure a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for all of our students.
Proven Excellence
IH Dublin has a long-standing tradition of excellence in providing top-tier educational placements. Our rich history ensures a trusted and reliable environment for your child’s academic and personal growth.
LIVE THE ULTIMATE HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCE AND EXPLORE IRELAND
NATIONALITY
EU and NON-EU Passport Holders
AGE PROFILE
From 12 to 18 years old
OPTIONS
Academic Year: September to June
Term 1: September to December
Semester 1: September to February
Semester 2: January to June
PROGRAMME LENGTH
From 4 months to 1 year
MINIMUM ENGLISH LEVEL REQUIREMENT
From Intermediate
Our programme includes:
- Registration
- School placement
- Full guardianship
- Full-board homestay accommodation, or boarding school accommodation (depending on the option chosen)
Public schools (EU only)
International House Dublin collaborates with over 50 state schools across Ireland, selected for their academic excellence and willingness to accept international students. These partnerships foster valuable cultural exchanges and ensure optimal integration with carefully regulated student numbers. Students stay with local host families near the schools and are encouraged to actively participate in both school and community life.
Private Day and Boarding Schools
Private Day School Programme: Comprehensive package with host family accommodation and full guardianship. Students attend day school while living with a host family.
Private Boarding Programme:
Full academic year option. Experience smaller class sizes, supervised homework, and a range of activities. Students 12 to 13 years old can opt for Prep School, starting studies in Ireland from the last year of primary education.
In Ireland, students begin secondary school at 12 years old with a three-year Junior Cycle. This cycle offers a broad curriculum, including humanities, languages, science, technology, arts, numeracy, and literacy. At 15 years old, students take the Junior Cycle Student Award (JCSA) exam. This stage prepares them for the Senior Cycle and includes core subjects like English and mathematics, along with various electives.
Unique to Ireland, Transition Year (TY) is an optional year between the Junior and Senior Cycles, for students between 15 and 16 years old. This year offers a break from the traditional academic focus, allowing students to explore a wide range of subjects—often 12 or more. TY includes work experience and emphasises personal development, life skills, and English language improvement, without the pressure of preparing for state exams. It is an excellent year for international students to start their high school studies in Ireland.
In Years 5 and 6, students between 16 to 18 years old prepare for the Leaving Certificate. They study core subjects like English, Irish (not compulsory for international students), and mathematics, along with 3 to 5 elective subjects from a wide selection. This two-year Senior Cycle concludes with the Leaving Certificate Examination. International students must take at least 6 subjects, including core subjects and electives such as science, technology, languages, art, music, history, and geography.
At IH Dublin, we ensure the highest standards of care and guidance for every student. Our comprehensive services include:
Application Support – Advice and assistance with school applications.
Host Family Placement – Carefully selected and vetted host families.
Airport Transfers – Greeting and transfer on arrival and departure. Additional transfers can be booked.
Arrival Support – Support at the start of the school year, including assistance with textbooks, uniforms, and settling in.
Ongoing Support – Regular contact with the student, school, and host family.
Extra Assistance – Help arranging additional English courses if required, plus support with medical needs (doctor/dentist visits). Medical insurance is optional for non-EU students, but strongly recommended.
Parent/Teacher Meetings – Attendance on behalf of parents when needed.
24/7 Emergency Contact – A dedicated emergency phone line for all students.
Visa and Registration Support – Assistance with visa registration and extensions (for non-EU students).
Accommodation Arrangements – Holiday and half-term accommodation for boarders and day students (not included in standard fees).
Contingency Fund – Management of a contingency fund if required.
Gather Required Documents
- Completed IH Dublin application form
- Two recent academic reports
- Copy of the student’s ID or passport
Assessment and Preparation
- We review the student’s needs and qualifications
- Provide guidance on the Irish education system
- Recommend suitable schools
School Enquiries
- We contact and apply to schools on your behalf
- Recommendations are based on availability, suitability, and budget
- Final acceptance is always at the discretion of the schools
Provisional Offer
- Schools may issue a provisional offer
- Families can accept or decline the offer
Accepting the Offer
- Once you accept, IH Dublin issues an invoice for the chosen package
- A non-refundable deposit of €2,000 is required to secure the placement
Final Confirmation & Payment
- Formal enrolment is confirmed after full payment
- Accommodation and arrival details are provided at least two weeks before arrival
Visa & Registration Service (for non-EU students)
- Support with visa applications and registration
Start Your Irish High School Journey Today
Join international students like Enrico from Italy, who found a second home in Dublin through our High School Programme.
Experience Ireland’s friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and world-class education — where learning goes beyond the classroom.