The Republic of Ireland occupies all but the northeast corner of the island of Ireland in the British Isles. The country’s lush green landscape, the product of its rainy but temperate weather year round, has earned it the nickname “the Emerald Isle.” Visitors revel in this country’s rich history: throughout the vivid green countryside, the centuries-old castles, ancient ruins and picturesque coastal villages still offer glimpses into Ireland’s past.

Although the economic boom in the mid 1990’s is evident in the growth and revitalisation of the cities, typically visitors find that even the cities still have a relaxed, provincial feel to them, and the country’s young population makes for a fun, dynamic culture. Galway is one of Europe’s fastest growing cities, yet as the stronghold of traditional Irish music, dance and language, also offers a rich arts and culture scene.

You will find the Irish to be warm and gregarious people with a sense of fun. Family life is very important to the Irish, and you will find many large extended families and lots of big gatherings of family and friends. Much socializing takes place in the lively pubs, where people of all ages can share meals and catch up on the local news and social events.

While regional dialects vary, English is spoken throughout this former British colony, so you will hear an elevator referred to as a “lift,” an apartment as a “flat,” and the trunk of your car as the “boot.” Occasionally you will hear the Irish language, known as Irish Gaelic.

High School in Ireland

Attending high school in Ireland while living with a host family is the best way for teen participants to discover Irish culture. As an exchange student in Ireland, you may attend a co-ed or a girls/boys only school. Many Irish public schools still maintain ties to their parochial beginnings. Uniforms are worn at school and can be purchased once you are in Ireland. You will find subjects similar to those in the U.S., although the schools and teachers are typically more formal. Irish teens typically socialize in groups, and like to get together to go to movies or just “hang out,” so you will likely have much in common with your Irish peers!

It is common to host exchange students in Ireland, so you will probably not be the first student your family has hosted. Your host family will expect you to help with household responsibilities, and family members may be more traditional in what they think are appropriate gender roles. Some Irish host “mums” work outside the home, but many do not.

Semester Program Options:
Spring Semester: January to June
Fall Semester: August to January

Academic Year:
August to June

For more information about CCI’s High School Abroad program or to download an application form and instructions, click here.

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Independent Homestay in Ireland

A homestay program is a wonderful opportunity to discover the real Irish culture first-hand. You will find yourself at home with the gregarious and easy-going Irish. The family is central to life here, and you will find large, extended families. Host family placements are usually in western and southern Ireland, around Cork and Galway. Your host family placement will include full board (3 meals per day).

The minimum age requirement for homestay programs in Ireland is 17.

For more information about CCI’s Independent Homestay program for Adults or to download an application form and instructions, click here.

For more information about CCI’s Independent Homestay program for Teens or to download an application form and instructions, click here.

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Internships in Ireland

University students and recent graduates can gain practical experience in one of several fields while deepening their understanding of Irish culture and business practices. Interns are placed in the exciting, fast-growing city of Dublin, an international business center and hub of Irish culture.

Interns are placed in voluntary internships in one of four fields: General Business, Travel/Tourism, Accounting/Finance, and Social Service. Room and half board (2 meals per day) is provided.

For more information about CCI’s Internship Program or to download an application form and instructions, click here.

Group Programs for Teens

Teachers and other organizers of student travel can arrange group programs in Ireland for teens through CCI. Programs can be arranged at any time of year and include fun cultural and sports activities, excursions, and homestay with Irish host families. Students can learn to play the penny whistle, participate in Irish dancing, ride a horse-drawn cart through the Gap of Dunloe, bicycle in the Aran Islands, and kiss the Blarney Stone! Homestay with Irish families gives students a first-hand glimpse into life as a member of an Irish family.

Contact CCI at least 12-16 weeks prior to your preferred departure date to allow adequate time to organize your program. Participant and Group Leader applications should be received at least 8 weeks prior to departure date.

For more information about CCI’s Group Programs, click here.

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