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The Irish School System

Welcome to our comprehensive Irish high school system guide, with High Schools International. Whether you're a student, parent, or study travel agency, this section provides valuable information to enhance your international education experience.

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01.

General Overview

02.

Admissions Process

03.

Curriculum & Subjects

04.

Assessment & Exams

05.

Grading System

06.

School Life

07.

Uniform & Dress Code

08.

Progression to Higher Education

School Supply
Overview

Overview of the Irish Secondary School System

General Structure

Diagram of the Irish Education System

Compare School Systems

Country comparisons for school years

Junior Cycle
(Years 1 - 3)

Students aged 12-15, culminating in the Junior Certificate Examination.

Transition Year
(Optional)

A year focused on personal development, work experience, and exploring interests.

Senior Cycle
(Years 5 - 6)

Preparation for the Leaving Certificate Examination, critical for higher education entry.

Admissions Process

Enrolment Criteria and Application Procedures

Irish High Schools are available to international students who are:

Aged 12 - 17

English level B2 or higher

Average or better academic record

1. Submit Student Details to HSI

Use our quick, online Pre-Application Form to tell us your needs and preferences

2. Choose Preferred School and Pay Deposit

Pick from suitable, available schools

3. Submit Full Application

HSI will guide you through the main application and supporting documents.

Important Dates and Deadlines

Application Periods:

Private Boarding Schools: From September to December for the following academic year. Early booking essential.

Private Day Schools: From September to April for the following academic year.

Public Day Schools: Any time, but early booking is advised.

January Starters: From July to October the same calendar year.

Placement Notifications:

School Placements: Varies by school, but usually within 4 weeks of application. This can be longer for some schools.

Host Family Placements: Usually 2 to 12 weeks before the program start date.

Required Documentation

Students on ALL PROGRAMS will be required to submit the following documents:

Completed application form

English level certificate

School transcripts

Medical records

You DO NOT need your medical records to start an application or to accept a place at an Irish school, but you will need them before the program start date.

Admissions Process

Curriculum and Subjects

Core and Elective Subjects

Core Subjects

English

Mathematics

Science

History

Geography​

Elective Subjects

Will vary by school, but may include:

Languages

Business

Technology

Arts, Music and more​

Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle Structure

Junior Cycle

Broad and balanced curriculum with a focus on foundational knowledge.

Senior Cycle

Specialised subjects chosen based on interests and career goals.

Transition Year (Optional)

Emphasises experiential learning, personal development and career exploration.

Opportunities for work experience, community service, and projects. 

Student in science class
Curriculum and Subjects
Assessment and Exams

Assessment and Exams

Junior Certificate Examinations

  • Taken at the end of the Junior Cycle (Year 3)

  • Subjects include core and chosen electives.

  • Important for progress to the Senior Cycle​

Leaving Certificate Examination

  • Taken at the end of the Senior Cycle.

  • Determines eligibility for higher education.

  • Subjects include core and electives relevant to future studies or careers.

Continuous Assessment and Coursework

  • Ongoing assessments complement final exams.

  • Includes projects, assignments, and practical work.

Student and teacher in exam hall
Grading System
School Notebook

Grading System

Explanation of the Grading Scale

  • A1, A2, B1, B2, etc., with A1 being the highest.

  • Percentage ranges determine each grade.

How Grades are Awarded

  • Based on exam performance, continuous assessment, and coursework.

Impact of Grades on Further Education Opportunities

  • Higher grades enhance chances of admission to universities, colleges, and vocational programs.

  • Critical for competitive courses and scholarships.

Students get exam results
School Life

School Life

Typical School Day and Timetable:

  • Classes usually start at 9:00 AM and finish by 4:00 PM.

  • Subjects are scheduled throughout the week with breaks for lunch and short recesses.

Morning
 

09:00-09:40 Maths


09:40-10:20 English


10:20-10:55 History


10:55-11:10 Short Break


11:10-11:50 French

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11:50-12:25 Music​

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Afternoon
 

12:25-13:05 Social & Personal Health


13:05-13:45 Lunch


13:45-14:25 Geography


14:25-15:05 Maths

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15:05-15:45 Computer Studies


15:45-17:00 After-school Clubs

Extracurricular Activities and Clubs

  • Sports (e.g., soccer, rugby, athletics).

  • Music, drama, and arts.

  • Science clubs, debate teams, and student councils.
    Extracurricular options will vary by school. HSI's Placements team can help you find the right school based on your interests.

Support Services:

  • Guidance counsellors for academic and career advice.

  • Special education services for students with additional needs.​
    In addition to school support, HSI students have access to a dedicated Student Advisor, our Head Office team and our 24/7 emergency telephone support.

Boys playing basketball at school
Uniform & Dress Code
School corridor

Uniform and Dress Code

Uniform Requirements:

Typical Boys' Uniform:

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  • Shirt: White or light blue, long or short sleeves, must be tucked in.

  • Trousers: Grey, navy, or black, no jeans.

  • Tie: School colors, worn properly.

  • Sweater or Blazer: School colors, with school crest.

  • Shoes: Black dress shoes, no sneakers.

  • Socks: Black, grey, or navy.

  • Jacket: Neutral tones or school colors, plain.
     

Additional Appearance Policies:

  • Hair: Neat and tidy, natural colours only.

  • Jewellery: Minimal; small stud earrings and watches allowed.

  • Makeup: Minimal or none.

  • Nail Polish: Clear or natural colours only.

Please be aware that these are general guidance. Each school will have its own uniforms and policies which HSI students must adhere to. The HSI Placements Team can advise on the specifics for each school.

By adhering to these uniform requirements, students maintain a neat, professional appearance that aligns with the school's standards and promotes a focused academic environment.

Typical Girls' Uniform:

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  • ​Blouse: White or light blue, long or short sleeves, must be tucked in.

  • Skirt or Trousers: Grey, navy, or black; knee-length skirt or standard trousers.

  • Tie: School colors, worn properly.

  • Sweater or Blazer: School colors, with school crest.

  • Shoes: Black dress shoes or formal flats, no high heels.

  • Socks or Tights: Black, grey, or navy.

  • Jacket: Neutral tones or school colors, plain.

Students in uniform smiling
Progress to Higher Education

Progression to Higher Education

Pathways to University, Colleges, and Vocational Training

Students who obtain the Irish Leaving Certificate can progress to:

  • Universities and Institutes of Technology offering degree programs.

  • Colleges of Further Education providing vocational training and PLC courses.

Career Guidance Services

  • Schools offer career guidance to help with subject choices and career planning.

  • Guidance counselors assist with college applications and career advice.

Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) Courses

  • One- to two-year programs providing vocational training and pathways to higher education or employment.

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