Why study in Ireland?

What level of English do I need to study abroad?

It depends on the programme and level of study, but most universities ask for at least B2 (upper intermediate). Native English speakers are usually exempt from language tests.

Will universities abroad accept my high school qualifications?

In most cases, yes. Universities usually ask for your high school diploma and transcripts. The most selective universities, such as the Ivy League, may also ask for national exam results or standardised test scores such as the SAT or ACT.

Why do some students need a foundation year before starting a degree?

Education systems differ from country to country, so depending on your school qualifications, you may need a foundation programme before starting a bachelor's degree. It isn't a wasted year. A foundation programme helps you adapt to new teaching methods, build your academic skills and core subject knowledge, and learn how university works, from working with lecturers to assessment and coursework. In some countries, such as the USA and Canada, this preparation is built into the first year of university.

Can I go straight to university after finishing school?

It depends on how many years of schooling you've completed and which qualifications you hold. If your school system is shorter than the one in your destination country, you may need a foundation programme to bridge the gap. It's time well spent: you'll start your degree already familiar with the teaching style and with a solid grounding in your subject.

Which English tests do universities accept?

The most widely accepted tests are IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). They're recognised by most universities in the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia and other English-speaking countries, and by English-taught programmes in Italy and across Europe.

Is there an age limit for applicants?

There's no age limit, but your age and any gap since your last qualification can affect student visa decisions. Most students start foundation and bachelor's programmes at 18–21 and master's programmes at 23–25.

Can international students work while studying?

Rules vary by country, but students can usually work up to 20 hours a week during term time. In the second and third years, programmes become more specialised and many universities offer paid internships.

Are there courses to prepare for entrance and language tests?

Yes. Many schools and language centres offer intensive preparation courses for IELTS, TOEFL, the SAT and the ACT. They usually cover core skills, practice with real test tasks and support from experienced teachers, which helps students improve their scores.

What's the best age to start school abroad?

We usually recommend 13–15. By this age, children are more independent, can manage their day-to-day needs and settle in socially more easily. Starting at this age also gives them enough time to adjust to a new school system before moving on to sixth form or upper secondary programmes.

From what age do boarding schools accept children?

Many boarding schools accept children from around age 6, when primary school begins, but this varies widely by school and country. Some schools in Switzerland take children from 3–4, UK schools usually from 6–7, and some schools in Austria, the USA, Canada, Spain and the UAE only from 12–13.

What language do European boarding schools teach in?

It depends on the school, its location and its curriculum. At most international boarding schools in Europe, however, English is the main language of instruction, both in lessons and in everyday school life.

Can my child get into a school if their English isn't strong enough yet?

Yes. Private international schools have years of experience with international students and offer academic support, from extra help with subjects to additional English lessons, so students can settle in quickly. There are also specialist preparatory schools that run intensive programmes to prepare students for top-ranked schools in a short time.

What entrance tests are there, and is IELTS required?

Most schools don't require IELTS, as they run their own English tests. Many also test maths and non-verbal reasoning, which shows how a student approaches learning. An interview with the admissions team is almost always part of the process. It's a chance for the school to learn about the student's goals and interests, and for the student to ask any questions they have.

How will my child cope at boarding school without us?

International schools have long experience of welcoming students from abroad, and they put a lot of effort into helping children settle in, especially in the first few months, so they feel at home away from home. Each student has a personal tutor who helps with everyday matters, and schools organise team-building games and activities in the first days after arrival. Children can also call home regularly.

Can you help with paying tuition fees abroad?

Yes. With offices in several countries, we can advise you on how to pay tuition fees and deposits to schools and universities abroad quickly and securely.

Do you help with visas?

Yes. We have a dedicated visa team that will guide you through the student visa process.

When should I start preparing my application?

We recommend starting at least a year in advance. Every school and university has its own application deadlines, so it's important to plan ahead. That said, many institutions accept applications until their places are filled, so we can also help if your timeline is tighter.

How exactly can you help me?

Drawing on years of experience in international education and our own time studying abroad, we developed our Guaranteed Acceptance (GA) method, which has already helped more than 9,000 students get into schools and universities around the world. We support each student from start to finish: we identify your strengths and goals, shortlist the right programmes, countries and institutions, build your admissions strategy, prepare your documents and translations, liaise with schools and universities, and get you ready for entrance tests and interviews. Once you've received your offers, we help with your visa and your preparations to move abroad.

Do you offer entrance exam preparation?

Yes. We work with a large network of experienced, carefully selected tutors who prepare our students for admission abroad.

Can I meet you in person?

Of course. You can book an in-person consultation at one of our offices, or speak to us online via Zoom or by phone.