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Introduction
Welcome to our Partner Manual and thank you for your interest in ISI Dublin.
This manual is designed to give you all the necessary information you need to begin promoting our courses. ISI offers three different kinds of programmes:
- English language courses for adults
- English language courses and summer camp for teenagers
- High School placement for teenagers
Accreditations & memberships
Our centres are recognised by ACELS, a service of Quality and Qualifications Ireland, for English language teaching. We are an approved preparatory centre for the Cambridge examinations suite, the Trinity ISE suite and TIE (Test of Interactive English). ISI is a member of MEI, ALTO, AGPI and were voted ’Star English Language School Europe 2014, 2016,2018, 2020/21’ at the STM Star Awards in London.
The school buildings
ISI Dublin occupies two year-round centres in Dublin. The original school, which was founded in 2001, is located in a beautifully modernised 18th century stone building just 10 minutes’ walk from O’Connell Street. Our 2nd year-round centre is housed in a beautiful Georgian redbrick building on Parnell Square just 10 minutes’ walk from the main school. The building combines large & ornate period rooms with modern furniture & artwork to create a wonderful learning space. The area around the school is steeped in Irish history, with many of the neighbouring buildings playing host to significant scenes of the Easter rising of 1916. Both schools have relaxed and friendly atmosphere top of the range facilities:
- bright and spacious classrooms
- interactive whiteboards in all classrooms
- self-access library (books + DVDs)
- modern multi-media computer suite with free Internet access and web cameras
- free Wi-Fi throughout the building
- student café with hot drinks and snacks
- free clubs including Jobs club, Conversation corner, Irish History and Culture club
- afternoon/evening social programme 5 days per week
- guided Saturday excursions, all year round to Connemara, Cliffs of Moher, Wicklow, Kilkenny and Belfast
- google map link with both centres click here.
Services to students
We offer all students the following services:
- Home stay, Hostel and Student Residence stay booking service
- Immigration & Visa support
- Localisation services (orientation, support letters, and student cards)
- 24-hour emergency telephone service
- Dedicated student accommodation and welfare staff
- Airport transfers
- Examination registration
Our philosophy
Working with your agency:
We like to build relationships with partners based on trust, honesty and integrity. In our marketing and advertising, we have a ‘what you see is what you get’ approach, i.e. we use real photos and videos of the school in our marketing materials, rather than stock photography and we try to encourage transparency using the social media, such as Instagram, Facebook and YouTube, where students can post real photos and testimonials about their experience with us. We expect the same level of trust and honesty from our partners. By working together and sharing information we can solve any issue, and keep our mutual clients happy.
Working with your clients:
We pride ourselves on our personal approach and from door to door your students are our priority. From the initial application stage to the end of the course, we are here to ensure our mutual clients’ needs are met in a friendly, caring and supportive environment. Furthermore we place a huge emphasis on involving our students in the community of the school, by offering them a range of activities outside of class which will enable them to meet other students and speak English all the time. ·
Our Office Team
Director | Brian Burns | bburns@isi-ireland.ie |
Director | James Dorrian | jdorrian@isi-ireland.ie |
School Director | Jennifer Diaz Green | jenniferdgreen@isi-ireland.ie |
School Manager | Marcelo Lopez Anido | marcelo@isi-ireland.ie |
Academic Manager | Billy Rogers | billy@isi-ireland.ie |
High School Programme Manager | Sarah McGovern | sarah@isi-ireland.ie |
Admissions Manager | Guilherme Miereles | admmissions@isi-ireland.ie |
Accounts and Office Manager | Graham Bennett | accounts@isi-ireland.ie |
Accommodation Manager | Kathleen Connoly | accommodation@isi-ireland.ie |
Marketing Executive | Ricardo Sarabia Roque | ricardo@isi-ireland.ie |
Sumer Centre Manager | Maebh Cotter | maebh@isi-ireland.ie |
You can meet all of our staff here and find out who to contact in each scenario here.
ISI employs a team of 25 – 45 teachers depending on the season. All teachers have a primary university degree, a recognized teaching qualification and teaching experience at home and abroad.
However, we select teachers not only for their qualifications, experience and passion for the English language, but also for their other interests. Our teachers demonstrate a strong sense of commitment and enthusiasm and in this way our mutual clients will enjoy a very special learning experience.
Adult English programmes
Day/Time | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
08.00 – 09.00 | Elective 1 | Elective 1 | Elective 1 | Elective 1 | Elective 1 |
Pause | |||||
09.00 – 12.15 (includes 15-minute break) |
General English AM | General English AM | General English AM | General English AM | General English AM |
Pause | |||||
12.25 – 13.25 | Elective 1 for GE 20 AM or PM option / Elective 2 for GE25 /
4th period CE20 |
Elective 1 for GE 20 AM or PM option / Elective 2 for GE25 /
4th period CE20 |
Elective 1 for GE 20 AM or PM option / Elective 2 for GE25 /
4th period CE20 |
Elective 1 for GE 20 AM or PM option / Elective 2 for GE25 /
4th period CE20 |
Elective 1 for GE 20 AM or PM option / Elective 2 for GE25 /
4th period CE20 |
Pause | |||||
13.30 – 16.40 (includes 15-minute break) |
General English AFT | General English AFT | General English AFT | General English AFT | General English AFT |
Class days | Monday to Friday |
Courses start day | Any Monday |
Lesson duration | 60 minutes |
Minimum age | 16 years old in adult classes |
Maximum number per class | 15 |
Average number per class | 12 |
Number of levels | 6 sub-divided |
Materials | First course book invoiced. For AY course, first 2 course books invoiced |
School closes | National holidays and Christmas (see school calendar 2019) |
Morning or Afternoon Study
All courses are available for morning or afternoon study. Afternoon course are equal academically to morning courses. However, because the majority of students want to study in the morning we offer the afternoon programmes at discounted prices (approximately 20% less). Please refer to our price list for more details. Partners should note that the social programme takes place from 14.00 – 16.00 each day, so afternoon students will not have the opportunity to join it. However, there are usually 2 – 3 events taking place from 17.00. These include school clubs and also one evening event per week.
Course Codes
Code | Lessons | Name and description |
GE15 | 15 | General English |
ILETS15 | 15 | Full time IELTS Exam preparation |
GE20 | 20 | General English (GE15) + Elective in conversation |
GE25 | 25 | General English (GE15) + Elective X 2 |
GE30 | 30 | GE15 X 2 (morning and afternoon classes combined) |
FCE 20/25 | 20/25 | Full time First Certificate English |
CAE 20/25 | 20/25 | Full time Certificate Advanced English |
BE15 | 15 | Full time Business English |
AY15 | 15 | Academic Year English (as GE15) for non-EU students with right to work. |
AM after the course codes indicates morning study
AFT after the course code indicates afternoon study (20% cheaper)
General English 15 and 30 (GE15 and GE30)
With the focus on communication skills, this15-hour per week course also provides a solid foundation in grammar and the main linguistic skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking. The method used is task-based, which means that by the end of each level students are expected to be able to complete a certain amount of tasks through English. There is a central course book and workbook and teachers supplement these using authentic materials such as newspapers, magazines, menus, manuals, brochures and a range of other books. All courses incorporate the use of electronic interactive whiteboards, the Internet and audio-visual technology.
GE30 students take the 15-hour morning component and the 15-hour afternoon component, which are essentially two different, unconnected classes.
Levels: A1 – C2 – Schedule | |
Morning GE15: | 09.00 – 12.15 |
Afternoon GE15: | 13.30 – 16.40 |
Morning + Afternoon GE30: | 09.00 – 16.40 |
Courses start dates: | Any Monday of the year, excluding Christmas vacation |
Hours per week: | 15 or 30 |
Duration: | 1 – 24 weeks |
Key Points: |
|
Award: | ISI Certificate in English |
Entry requirements: | Students should have a basic knowledge of English (A1 level). Those who are complete beginners will have to enter a one-to-one programme until A1 level is achieved. |
General English 20 and 25
The GE20 and GE25 programmes follow the same structure as described under GE15, but there are 5 or 10 electives.
These can be conversation fluency, plus one other topic (business, examinations, study skills etc.). In this way, this course offers superior fluency practice and specialisation in a topic.
Levels: A1 – C2 – Schedule (elective choice will depend on level) | |
Schedule | AM = morning students AFT = afternoon students |
Elective 1: | 08.00 – 09.00 – GE25AM students |
Elective 2: | 12.25 – 13.25 – all AM students and GE20AFT students |
Morning GE15: | 09.00 – 12.15 – all AM students |
Afternoon GE15: | 13.30 – 16.40 – all GE20 students |
Cambridge Examinations (FCE and CAE – FULLTIME COURSES)
Levels: FCE and CAE (B2 – C1) | |
Schedule | 09.00 – 13.25 |
Extra Elective Schedule (Optional, depends on availability): | 08.00 – 09.00 (Students may, for an additional fee, add on 5 hours of electives – 25 hours in total. Students may choose their topic from what is available that week at their level) |
Programme dates are not confirmed yet as Exam centres have announced the exam dates.
IELTS 15
Our full time IELTS course is designed to help you succeed in the IELTS course and will give you a complete guide to everything you need to know as you prepare for the IELTS testation.
Levels: B+ | |
Schedule | 09.00 – 12.15 and 13:30-16:40 |
Duration | Minimum 8 weeks |
Key points |
|
Entry requirements | B1+ level (pretest required) |
Business English (BE15)
Full time programme designed to widen the students’ knowledge of specific vocabulary and grammar in business situations.
The Writing Skills component prepares students for written communication while the Interpersonal and Communication Skills component prepares them for verbal interactions.
Levels: Business English (B2) | |
Schedule | 09.00 – 12:15 |
Duration | Minimum 4 weeks |
Key points |
|
Entry requirements | B2 level (pretest required) |
Other information | Course availability is limited, please contact Admissions department before confirming the booking. |
Academic Year 15 (AY15)
With the main focus on communication skills, this 15 hour per week course also provides a solid foundation in grammar and the main linguistic skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking. The method used is task-based, which means that by the end of each level students are expected to be able to complete a certain number of tasks through English. There is a central course book and workbook and teachers supplement these using authentic materials such as newspapers, magazines, menus, manuals, brochures and other books. All courses incorporate the use of electronic interactive whiteboards, the Internet and audio-visual technology.
Levels: A1 – C2 – Schedule | |
Morning AY15: | 09.00 – 12.15 |
Afternoon AY15: | 13.30 – 16.40 |
Courses start dates: | Any Monday of the year, excluding Christmas vacation |
Duration: | 1 academic year (minimum 25 weeks study) with an 8 month visa |
Entry requirements: | Students should be at least 18 years old on the course start date and should have a basic A1 level of English. Students tested at A0 level cannot enter the programme and should take one-to-one tuition until A1 level is reached. |
Obligatory exit exam: | All Academic Year students are required to sit a recognised exam prior to completing their course. |
Awards: | All programmes include preparation for the Trinity ISE exam. Students enrolled on the 20 hour programme can choose to prepare for Cambridge Exams (FCE, CAE) or IELTS 6 or 7, but an exam fee supplement applies. |
Right to work: | Students from outside the EU on Academic Year programmes have the right to work 20 hours per week during the course, and 40 hours per week only during holidays from June to September & December 15th to January 15th inclusive. |
Academic Year 20 (AY20)
The programme follows the same schedule and structure as the AY15 programme above but includes a choice of ONE of the following electives, for 5 extra classes per week:
- Cambridge Examination
- IELTS
- Business English
- Writing and Grammar skills
- Grammatical structures
- Conversation skills
Levels: A1 – C2 – Schedule | |
Morning AY15: | 09.00 – 12.15 |
Afternoon AY15: | 13.30 – 16.40 |
Courses start dates: | Any Monday of the year, excluding Christmas vacation |
Duration: | 1 academic year (minimum 25 weeks study) with an 8 month visa |
Elective: | 08.00 – 09.00 or 12.25 – 13.25 |
Entry requirements: | Students should be at least 18 years old on the course start date and should have a basic A1 level of English. Students tested at A0 level cannot enter the programme and should take one-to-one tuition until A1 level is reached. |
Obligatory exit exam: | All Academic Year students are required to sit a recognised exam prior to completing their course. |
Awards: | All programmes include preparation for the Trinity ISE exam. Students enrolled on the 20 hour programme can choose to prepare for Cambridge Exams (FCE, CAE) or IELTS 6 or 7, but an exam fee supplement applies. |
Monitoring Student progress
We are committed to ensuring that all students are placed in the right level and continue to make progress throughout their studies.
- Entry test: every student is required to take an online test in advance of arrival and will also be given a speaking test on their first day.
- Weekly assessment: These are short weekly class tests. The results are given to students and recorded in the student’s file.
Levels – Council of Europe Scale
Our level scale is based on the Council of Europe global scale of levels and the language descriptors of the Common European Framework.
Council of Europe | ISI Dublin equivalent level | Approximate exam level |
Basic User | ||
A1 | False Beginner- elementary | |
A2 | Pre-intermediate | KET/IELTS (3)/TOEIC 220+ |
Independent User | ||
B1 | Intermediate | PET/IELTS (4)/TOEIC 380+ |
B2 | Upper Intermediate | FCE/IELTS (5)/TOEIC 520+ |
Proficient User | ||
C1 | Lower Advanced | CAE/IELTS (6)/TOEIC 800+ |
C2 | Very Advanced | CPE/IELTS (7)/TOEIC 900+ |
Level Equivalencies
ISI Dublin Levels | Main course objectives at each level | Examinations | |
C2 | Very Advances |
|
Cambridge CPE
IELTS 7 TOEFL 265 TOEIC 920 |
C1 | Advanced
This level is important if students wish to go on to university at undergraduate or post graduate level. |
|
Cambridge CAE
Cambridge BEC 3 IELTS 6.5 TOEFL 230 -250 TOEIC 800 – 850 |
B2+ | Upper Intermediate |
|
Cambridge FCE
IELTS 5.5 TOEFL 210 TOEIC 750 |
B2 | Upper Intermediate
Employers tend to look for exam certificates at this level |
Cambridge BEC 2
TOEIC 625 |
|
B1+ | Intermediate |
|
Cambridge PET
IELTS 4 TOEIC 500 |
B1 | Intermediate
From this level you can use language in the workplace |
Cambridge BEC 1
TOEIC 375 |
|
A2+ | Pre-Intermediate |
|
Cambridge KET |
A2 | Pre-Intermediate | TOEIC 250
IELTS 3 |
|
A1 | Elementary |
|
|
A0 | Beginner |
Junior Programmes
Summer Camp at Belvedere College
Our Junior Campus located at Belvedere College, just north of O’Connell Street hosts students from all over the world with our unique English in Action curriculum. Belvedere College is a very modern high school with fantastic learning facilities including: bright and spacious classrooms; computer room with internet access; indoor swimming pool; gymnasium & sports pitch “English in Action” is a 15 or 20-lesson English programme (four 45-minute lessons per day) that combines 2 lessons of General English with 2 lessons of activity-based learning with the following themes:
ISI Paparazzi | Students research, create and publish the weekly ISI gazette notice board. In teams the ISI Paparazzi decide on article themes, and cover topics and stories included on the social programme and their experiences at school. |
ISI Glee | Students must prepare a performance for the weekly talent show. This can be a song, a play, a dance or a comedy act and although structured in format, students are encouraged to be as creative and adventurous as possible. |
ISI Craic | Students learn about contemporary and traditional Irish culture, from Yeats to U2, and experience Irish culture in a fun and exciting way. |
ISI Rock | Students learn about traditional Irish music and music popular in Ireland. Each level will be assigned a different song to analyse and produce a music video for, including classics such as Molly Malone and Whiskey in the Jar. |
ISI Adventure | Students learn about Irish sports, leisure interests, health and well-being. At the end of the week, each level has a different task in which to incorporate their learning in a creative way , for example, creating a computer game or sports app or organising a school sports day |
Agents interested in summer should contact us for quotes. Please contact info@isi-ireland.ie for further details and quotes.
High School Programmes
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
- Guardianship services from dedicated staff as per AGPI standards as outlined in HSP brochure
- Involvement of parents in choosing a suitable location and school for their child
- Selection of high-quality host family and boarding accommodation
- Guardianship services from dedicated staff
- Monthly counselling and reporting system
- Mobile phone during first year of programme
- English language support to Dublin based students
- Mobile phone during first year of programme
- Orientation seminar on arrival
- Social programme including parties, discos, movies, karaoke and quizzes 24-hour emergency telephone service.
Please contact info@isi-ireland.ie for further details and quotes.
Adult social and cultural programme
At ISI we place a huge emphasis on involving our students in the community of the school so they feel part of student life from the start. We also understand that every student wants to maximise their time in Ireland, to meet new people, and to speak English all the time.
We’ve developed a range of activities and student clubs to ensure our students get the most out of their experience and enjoy every minute. The weekly ISI Social Programme includes at least one activity each afternoon and some evening and Saturday events. These activities are very important to help you integrate and make friends. If you are studying in an afternoon programme you will have the option to attend some school clubs and evening activities.
Check out our Instagram page (isi_dublin) for photos of recent events. Below are some samples – please note these are subject to change and will vary from week to week.
- Free Orientation Tours of Dublin
- General Dublin Tour
- Temple Bar Tour
- Docklands Tour
- Dublin’s Green Parks
- Dalkey Tour
- Howth Tour
- Free Cultural Excursions
You can learn about Dublin and its rich culture and history by taking part in our free excursions:
- Trinity College
- Dublin Castle
- Museum of Modern Art
- Archaeological museum
- National Art Gallery
- National Museum Collins Barrack’s
- Glasnevin Park
- Free Parties
We have regular student parties (at least once a month) with various themes. These are usually held in a large pub or nightclub and usually hundreds of students attend. Some examples are:
- Summer Party
- Hallowe’en Party
- Christmas Party
- Valentine’s Party
- St. Patrick’s Party
- Easter Party
- Free School Clubs
Students can sign up to School Clubs every week. These include:
- Jobs Club – you will be assisted in applying for part-time jobs
- Conversation Corner – you will participate in language exchange activities with students of different nationalities
- Irish history and culture club – students learn about all things Irish!
Paid Excursions
- Weekly
- Euro 35 – 45
- Every Saturday all year round students may go on excursions all over Ireland: Wicklow, Kilkenny, Belfast/Giant’s Causeway, Connemara and Cliffs of Moher.
Accommodation service
Host Family (homestay)
We guarantee that an ISI staff member has visited and carefully selected all our host families. Students speaking the same native language will not normally be placed with the same host family unless requested. In July, every effort is made to ensure one nationality per family, but this is not always feasible and we ask agents to be patient and understanding where two students of the same nationality are placed together. Our host families are located between 30 and 45 minutes commute by bus or train from the city centre. Host families will provide the following:
- Breakfast and dinner Monday to Friday and all meals at weekends
- Single or shared bedroom
- Quiet study area
- Sharing Option: This means that the student pays the ‘room share price’. ISI will place the student with another student. It is possible in quieter periods that the student will have single occupancy of the shared room for the shared room price.
Advice for your clients about home stay
Integration into Irish family life is very important during your student’s stay. Our host families are carefully selected and we are sure that your student will enjoy his stay with the Irish host. Students may speak to our Accommodation Administrator any time if they are experiencing problems with their accommodation.
We inspect all host families registered with the school and the families are expected:
- to encourage the student to speak English as much as possible in their home
- to encourage the student to feel at home
- to provide the student with a clean and comfortable room
- to provide a table/desk for private study and adequate storage space for your clothes
- to provide adequate heating and lighting
- to provide adequate washing facilities and access to the bathroom as a member of the household, with a baths or a shower available daily
- to provide a change of sheets each week and sufficient bed covering
- to provide a sufficiently spacious bedroom, with sufficient natural light
- to maintain a clean and tidy home
- to provide a balanced and appropriate diet (if for cultural/religious reasons your student is unable to eat certain foods, please inform ISI at the booking stage)
- to always consider the students welfare, safety and security both in the home and outside the home
- to wash a light load of clothes for the student once a week, together with the family’s laundry. The host family may refuse to do larger loads. In this case the student will have to go to a launderette. Please note that you are responsible for all dry cleaning
- to keep in close contact with the School to help resolve any problems the student may have during their stay
- to respect the student’s different cultural background
We expect students to be respectful of our host families and as such your student should:
- try to live as a member of the family and adapt to family life and Irish culture
- try to understand that their host family house is not likely to be the same as their house at home. For example, most of our host families do not employ cleaning staff/house keepers, as is the practice in some countries. Generally cleaning and housekeeping is the duty of the household members and the student should play a part in this by keeping his bedroom clean and tidy.
- remember that Irish eating habits, Irish food and Irish mealtimes will be different
- make an effort from the beginning to integrate with the family and their routines
- respect the ‘house rules’ regarding meals, use of family equipment, use of internet, access to food/drinks outside mealtimes and evening curfews. If in doubt, always ask the host family.
Meals
- Meals will be served at a time dictated by the host family. If for some reason the student cannot have the meal at the given time, then he/she can make this request, but the host family is not obliged to provide meals outside the given mealtimes.
- Breakfast is usually a light meal – breakfast cereal, bread/toast and tea/coffee for example. Many families offer adult students ‘self-service’ breakfast, where the student is free to help themselves to breakfast items from the refrigerator every morning. In this case, the student should ask the host family how to use kitchen appliances (kettle, toaster) if there are any doubts.
- Lunch (on weekends) is generally a light snack – a sandwich/salad or soup or both.
- The evening or main meal (dinner) is usually meat (chicken, beef, lamb, pork, sausages, burgers) or fish, served with vegetables and/or potatoes/rice/pasta. Irish people love potatoes (boiled, mashed, roasted, French fries). As such, potatoes are likely to be served daily for dinner (instead of rice, pasta etc.). If this becomes repetitive or if you don’t like potatoes, just tell your host family you would prefer rice or pasta some days. If you have any special dietary requirements, please contact the school before you arrive.
- In Ireland, meals are generally served on one plate, rather than different courses, though this varies from family to family.
- On Sunday, the main meal (dinner) may be eaten earlier (around 1pm) and a light meal (supper) in the evening. Again, this varies from family to family.
Home stay curfews
There should be no curfew for adult students (aged 18 or more) and the host family should provide a key. However, students should be respectful of family life and inform their family of their evening plans.
- If the student is going to be late, he/she should inform family
- If the student will not be back for evening meal, he/she should let the family know
- The student should refrain from making noise late at night when returning home
Residence
ISI’s uses several deluxe residences which consist of high-quality single rooms with ensuite bathrooms, arranged in “clusters” sharing a living and kitchen area with 4-7 students. It located in city centre, 15-20 minute walk from our school buildings.
Students can expect their bedroom and bathroom to be clean and tidy on arrival. Thereafter, cleaning of the bedroom and bathroom is their own responsibility. The students are expected to keep the living area and kitchen clean and tidy and to wash their own dishes every day. However, the living room and kitchen will be checked and cleaned once a week by an ISI staff member.
- Board: Bed linen is provided. It is student’s responsibility to change and wash their own bed lined. Towels are not supplied
- Cleaning: Common areas of residence is cleaned once a week. Sheets are either changed once a week or a spare set is provided which student must change. Student is in charge of own laundry – washing machines are provided.
- Booking terms: Bookings are paid 100% in advance. Refundable damages deposit must be paid on check in.
- Rates: Rates are per week, and 1 week equals 5, 6 or 7 days. €290 per week (Oct – Jun) and €360 per week (Jul – Sep)
- Deposits: Students will be required to pay deposit. Deosit amount will depend on a residence, but expeted to be around 200-300 EUR and will have o be paid either at ISI or residence reception.
- Check in/ Check out: Saturday
- Minimum age in residence: The minimum age allowed in residence is 18 years old.
Applications
To be guaranteed the following processing procedure, ISI requests that agents send bookings at least 2 weeks in advance. Late applications are always welcome but may not be processed within the given deadlines and ISI may not be able to entertain all requests.
- Agents should send the completed Enrolment Form or their own adapted application form by e-mail: admissions@isi-ireland.ie
- Following acceptance of applications, ISI will send the agent an invoice and a Letter of Confirmation within 24 hours, although usually in a shorter period of time (please allow extra time at weekends).
All fees are payable as follows:
Non-visa countries: 2 weeks prior to the start of the course.
Visa countries: At least 30 days prior to the start of the course. You are advised to pay all fees as early as possible in order to facilitate visa applications.
Please follow the payment guidelines on the invoice.
- On receipt of full payment of fees ISI will issue a formal Letter of Acceptance to the agent. The student may use this to apply for a study visa if necessary.
All non-EEA students should keep this letter with them when going through immigration at Dublin Airport. - For bookings made at least 4 weeks in advance, full accommodation and transfer details will be provided within 2 weeks of arrival, but may be subject to changes up to the arrival date.
- For bookings made less than 4 weeks in advance ISI will endeavour to provide full accommodation and transfer details at the earliest possible convenience – normally within 1 week of arrival date, but this may be subject to changes up to the arrival date.
- For very late bookings – within 7 days of arrival date, ISI will make every effort to supply the details as early as possible but during busy periods details may not be provided until 1 day prior to arrival.
- If a student’s arrival details (arrival date, time and flight number) are not included in the enrolment form, they should be confirmed to ISI as soon as possible.
- If the agent does not confirm travel details, please ensure that the student informs ISI no later than 1 week before arrival in Dublin.
- Airport transfers cannot be guaranteed until ISI receives the student’s flight time and number. If the student fails to inform ISI via the emergency number, that his/her flight has been delayed, the transfer will be cancelled with no compensation to the student.
EMERGENCY NUMBER FROM ABROAD: + 353 87 7864937
Payment options
ISI provides agents with three ways to pay:
Bank Transfer – all countries
Please transfer into the account below accepting all bank charges.
Account Number | 48368349 |
Account Name | Study in Ireland Limited |
Bank Name | Bank of Ireland |
Bank Address | Saint Stephens Green, Dublin 2 |
Sort Code | 90-00-84 |
BIC | BOFIIE2D |
IBAN | IE07 BOFI 9000 8448 3683 49 |
NB: The agent must ensure that the full net sum on the invoice arrives in our account and as such must agree to pay all bank charges for each transfer made. These include the sending bank charges and the receiving bank charges. Unpaid bank charges will be billed to the agent. A copy of the transfer should be faxed to ISI immediately.
Pay-to-study (formerly International Student Payments Service – ISPS)
If you are paying from outside the Eurozone, you can now avail of competitive exchange rates on bank transfers using this system.
Please go to this link and fill in the form, choose wire transfer or credit card and you will receive payment instructions.
Payments can be tracked online and PayToStudy can offer support through our 24-hour customer service team.
Credit Card – all countries
Please fill in a Credit Card Authorisation form which can be requested by emailing info@isi-ireland.ie.
- Paypal – If you select Paypal as your payment option, an administrative charge of 3.5% will apply. In case your country is not in Europe or is not the United State of America or Canada, an extra charge of 2% will apply.
- Stripe – If you select Stripe as your payment option, an administration charge of 3.5% will apply.
Cancellation Policy
- No refunds will be made to students who request accommodation at the time of booking and then make alternative accommodation arrangements before or after their arrival in Dublin.
- No refunds will be made to students who request an airport transfer at the time of booking, but later make alternative arrangements or arrive more than 2 hours late without informing the school, via the emergency number.
- No exam deposit refunds will be made to Academic Year students who do not sit their exam during their scheduled course programme dates.
- Students unable to obtain a Student Visa can cancel the course applied for and must supply a visa refusal number and pay a cancellation fee.
- The cancellation fees below are inclusive of the application fee.
Cancellation due to inability to obtain a visa: Full refund less €75 (upon presentation of a visa refusal number).
Cancellation due to any other reason: Refunds will be given at the discretion of ISI management and each case is dealt with on an individual basis. The following conditions apply:
- Cancellation more than 1 week prior to arrival: Full refund less €200
- Cancellation less than 1 week prior to arrival: Full refund less €500
- Cancellation after course starts: No refund
Approved refunds will be sent within 30 days of notice of cancellation. Sending bank charges will be deducted from the balance being refunded.
A late notification fee for course postponement will be charged to students that postpone their course start date and fail to inform the school within 2 weeks of their scheduled arrival. This fee will be charged if the course postponement date is more than 14 days from the original course start date.
- Postponement notification more than 1 week prior to arrival: €100 chargePostponement notification less than 1 week prior to arrival: €200 charge
Cancellation due to ‘Act of God’ such as volcanic ash cloud, earthquake and other natural disasters which prevent student from travelling to Ireland altogether or cause student to postpone course.
- ISI will allow the student to postpone start and finish dates of course until it is safe to travel
- If delayed students cannot extend course finish date, the balance of tuition fees/accommodation fees not used will be converted to alternative lessons (1:1 or afternoon group courses) on a case-by-case basis and subject to availability.
- If a student requests a complete cancellation of the course, there will be a Euro 30 cancellation fee, plus 3 night’s accommodation (if booked).
COVID19 Update
In accordance with Irish government guidelines, language schools can operate at Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3 restrictions. However, language schools must go online if the government introduces Level 4 or Level 5 restrictions. For a full explanation of Ireland’s COVID19 restrictions, please go to https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/resilience-recovery-2020-2021-plan-for-living-with-covid-19/
The followings guidelines apply to all ISI Dublin students (currently enrolled as well as future students) who wish to postpone or cancel their course at ISI due to COVID19 restrictions OR for any other reason.
Reason for cancellation before course start date | Credit Note Options | Refund Options |
Visa refused – refusal letter supplied | N/A | Full refund less €100 |
Suspension of visa issuance from an embassy | Credit Note valid for 12 months | Full refund less €100 |
COVID19 travel restrictions in student’s home country which were not in place at the time of booking, e.g. No overseas travel allowed or no flights to Ireland available | Credit Note valid for 12 months | Full refund |
COVID19 entry restrictions to Ireland which were not in place at the time of booking, e.g. No travel allowed into Ireland for students from certain countries (red list) for a temporary period. (Currently there is no red list, all nationalities may travel to Ireland, if they quarantine for 14 days after arrival) | Credit Note valid for 12 months | Full refund |
Student’s country of origin was on green list at the time of booking but was removed prior to course start date, i.e. now requiring a 14-day quarantine. | Credit Note valid for 12 months | Full refund |
Course moved online prior to travel due to COVID19 restrictions (i.e. national lockdown (Level 4 or 5), regional lockdown, outbreak of COVID19 in the school. | Credit Note valid for 12 months | Full refund |
Any other reason not outlined above, more than 1 week before arrival | Credit Note valid for 12 months | Full refund less €200 pp |
Any other reason not outlined above, less than 1 week before arrival | Credit Note valid for months | Full refund less €500 |
Reason for cancellation after course start date | Credit Note Options | Refund Options |
EEA students – Student leaving Ireland, as course has moved online due to COVID19 restrictions, i.e. national lockdown (Level 4 or 5), outbreak of COVID19 in a specific class or in the school | Credit Note valid for 12 months | No refund |
Non-EEA students – Student leaving Ireland, as course has moved online due to COVID19 restrictions, i.e. national lockdown (Level 4 or 5), outbreak of COVID19 in a specific class or in the school | Credit Note valid for 12 months | No refund |
Non-EEA students- Student staying in Ireland, but course has moved online due to COVID19 restrictions, as per immigration requirements (i.e. national lockdown (Level 4 or 5), outbreak of COVID19 in a specific class or in the school) | No credit note | No refund |
Any other reason not outlined above | A credit note may be given at the discretion of the school Directors | No refund |
Extra Notes:
- Annual price increases will not affect postponements or credit notes issued.
- If a student postpones or receives a credit note for a low season service, but re-books in high season, the balance of the high season service will be invoiced.
- If a student postpones or receives a credit note for a high season service, but re-books in low season, the balance of the low season service will be refunded
- All sending bank charges will be deducted from approved refunds
Curtailment policy
- No refunds will be given for late arrival, early departure or days missed during the course, except under very exceptional circumstances.
- No refunds will be given for late arrival, early departure or days departed from the host family or the residence except under very exceptional circumstances.
- Refunds under very exceptional circumstances will be given at the discretion of ISI management only, and each case will be dealt with on an individual basis.
Visa Application
- Students from EU and EEA countries do not require an entry visa to come to Ireland. Many countries outside the EEA are ‘visa waiver’ countries (for example Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Bolivia, Argentina, Korea, Japan and Taiwan) and have special agreements with the Irish government and as such do not require a visa to enter Ireland.
- Students from visa waiver countries travel directly to Ireland but go through immigration AFTER arrival. See below ‘Immigration in Ireland’.
- Students from countries requiring a visa will need to apply for a student visa at an Irish Embassy or Consulate in their home country BEFORE travel.
- In countries where there is no Irish embassy/consulate, all visa documents can be sent directly the Department of Justice.
- Visa application guidelines can be found at: http://www.inis.gov.ie
- As stated in the application procedure, students requiring visas will need to pay all the fees in advance in order to receive a Letter of Acceptance.
Arrival at Immigration in Ireland
Under 18 students (from EEA and non-EEA countries)
According to Irish Law, students under the age of 18 MUST travel with an adult or be met by a responsible adult (aged 21 or more) or be met at the airport by an ISI representative. Under all circumstances the student must have a letter indicating the name of the person meeting them at the airport (i.e. ISI driver) and the accommodation address.
ISI supplies this service, including transfer to accommodation for Euro 95 one way and Euro 155 return. Those who do not book this service and do not have an alternative ‘meet and greet’ as described above, could be refused entry to Ireland or could be placed in the custody of the Health Service Executive.
All non-EEA students
The student’s visa and documentation will be checked at Dublin Airport by immigration authorities, and permission to enter Ireland is usually granted for a limited period of between 1 and 3 months (normally 30 days). This period can be extended AFTER entry to Ireland. Should students wish to extend their stay or if they intend to stay longer than 90 days, and/or intend to work part-time, they will need to register with the GNIB (Garda National Immigration Bureau). ISI will fully assist students in all immigration matters. A full orientation is provided on the first day.
On arrival in Ireland all non-EEA students (visa waiver or visa requiring) must keep on them at all times:
- The ISI Letter of Acceptance (a clean, clear copy or original)
- The ISI Accommodation Booking Confirmation or a letter showing their alternative
- The ISI Emergency number Tel: + 353 87 7864937
- Proof of sufficient funds (credit cards, postal orders, traveller’s cheques etc.) to support their stay in Ireland (students should have approximately €125 per week, for the entire length of their course, though Euro 3000 is currently acceptable for Academic Year programmes).
- Students will also need to bring € 300 to register with immigration during their first month in Ireland.
Medical Insurance
Medical and travel insurance is not included in any of the course fees. All students must have full private medical insurance for the duration of their stay in Ireland and are also recommended to have travel insurance. This may be requested at the airport. All European Union students are entitled to full medical services in Ireland and should bring the European Health Card with them. Students who have taken out medical insurance in their home country are asked to give a copy of their insurance documents to ISI on arrival. Non-EU students requiring medical insurance can be registered by ISI for private medical insurance. The fees for up to one year from the arrival date are €125. The insurance expires when the student leaves ISI (with a maximum cover of 34 weeks). Exact details of the insurance policy are available on request.
Getting from the Airport
After arriving at Dublin Airport, students should take a taxi or airport bus to the school or host family. This takes about 30 minutes and the taxi fare is approximately Euro 20 to north side locations and Euro 30 – Euro 40 to south side locations, while the airport bus fare is a € 7.00 top city centre. Students may also book an airport transfer with ISI costing Euro 85 one way/Euro 130 return.
Level Test
Students will be advised prior to travel to complete the online level test at https://languagequiz.studyinireland.ie/
First Morning
Morning students should present themselves at reception by 8.15am on Monday morning. Afternoon students should arrive by 11.00am. Those who have completed the online test will have a short speaking test and will continue on to orientation and placement into class. Those who have not completed the online test must do so at the school.
Orientation
A full orientation will take place, with additional orientation for non-EU students, who will need to receive:
- Information on opening bank accounts.
- Information on registering with the GNIB (immigration).
- Information on obtaining a Personal Public Service number, which will allow the student to work part-time. Note non-EEA students must be enrolled on a one year course to be eligible for part-time employment.
Students should also voice any concerns they may have about their course or their accommodation, during the first week. A one-week feedback form – supplied on the first day – should be filled in and returned to the teacher or staff member by Friday of the first week.
School Calendar
School will be closed on the following dates in 2022:
- 1 Jan Sat New Year’s Day
- 17 Mar Thu Saint Patrick’s Day
- 18 Mar Fri Day of Remembrance and Recognition
- 18 Apr Mon Easter Monday
- 2 May Mon May Day
- 6 Jun Mon June Bank Holiday
- 1 Aug Mon August Bank Holiday
- 31 Oct Mon October Bank Holiday
- 25 Dec Sun Christmas Day
- 26 Dec Mon St Stephen’s Day
- 31 Dec Fri
Departure Documents
On completion of the course, students who have attendance 85% or more of the course will receive the following:
- An “ISI Certificate of Attendance”, which confirms the course taken, the percentage of attendance, and a general assessment of language competence based on the Council of Europe Level Scale.
- An “ISI End of Course Progress Report”, which contains a more detailed assessment of the student’s language ability.
Questions that students often ask
Do I need a visa?
That depends on where you come from. Students from the EEA, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein do not need a visa to travel to or study in Ireland. Students from visa-waiver countries such as Brazil, Uruguay, Chile, Panama, Argentina, Mexico, US A, Canada, Japan, Korea and Taiwan do not need a visa to enter Ireland but must register after arrival. Students from visa-requiring countries such as Colombia, Venezuela, China, Russia, Pakistan and India require a visa in advance of travelling to Ireland. For full information please visit: http://www.inis.gov.ie Go to ‘Students’ on left column and select visa type.
Will the school help me to register with immigration after arrival?
Yes, after you arrive at the school, we will take you through a step-by-step process of opening a bank account, applying for a social security number and registering with immigration.
How much money should I bring to Ireland for long-term study?
If you are from a country outside of the EEA, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, you will be required to open a bank account in Ireland and place the sum of € 3000 (for 6 months – 8 months) or € 500 per month for shorter courses. You will also be required to pay a fee of € 300 to register with immigration.
In 2020 the school opens on Monday January 6th after the 2019 Christmas holidays (December 21st 2019 to January 1st 2020). The school is closed on Saturdays and Sundays and the following holidays.
On the above dates there will be no lessons.
2020 Christmas vacation is from December 21st 2019 to January 1st 2020. The school re-opens on Monday January 6th 2020. Students may not book or have courses during this time. If your course runs through the Christmas vacation, the course will be extended accordingly.
Can I work in Ireland?
Students from the EEA, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein can work legally in Ireland with the same conditions as Irish citizens. All students from outside these countries can work in Ireland only if they are in full-time education on an approved programme for a period of 25 weeks or more. At ISI, these programmes include all Academic Year English programmes. However, students on these programmes are limited to working 20 hours per week during course term. Students may work 40 hours per week during approved holidays periods which must take place in June, July, August & September or from 15 December to 15 January. ISI runs a jobs club each week, where a staff member assists students who are looking for part-time jobs.
Do I need to buy medical insurance?
If you are a student from within the EU, you should apply for the European Health Card and bring this with you in Ireland.
If you are a Non EU student you must purchase travel insurance for the duration of your course in Ireland. We supply suitable insurance that cover for € 125 per year in case you have an accident or suffer an illness that incurs medical costs. Download the policy below.
Can I buy insurance through the school?
Yes, ISI supplies a very competitive insurance policy for students. Please consult our price list and stipulate on your application if you require this service.
Can you meet me at the airport in Dublin?
Yes, an ISI representative can meet you at the airport and bring you to your accommodation. Please consult our price list and stipulate on your application if you require this service
When can I start my course?
You can start English programmes and Academic Year programmes on any Monday, except during Christmas vacation. All other courses have specific course start dates. See course description page.
How big are the classes?
There is a maximum of 15 students in each language class.
Do I need to pass a test in order to enter your school?
All new English language students can do an English test online at www.studyinireland.ie.
Do you have any activities I can participate in after class?
ISI offers a full social programme all year round, as well as a range of free clubs and evening events. See www.facebook.com/isi.ireland for details. Students who are taking programmes in the afternoon at a 25% discount, cannot participate in the afternoon social programme. However, each week there are clubs which commence after the afternoon classes, and usually at least one evening activity and one Saturday activity.
What qualifications do your teachers have?
All English teachers have a degree and an ACELS recognized TEFL certificate.
How can I find information about Cambridge or Trinity exams?
Your teacher can advise you on which examination will suit you.
Can I get a certificate at the end of my course?
All students must attend at least 85% of their English classes to receive the full certificate. Students who complete an English programme receive an in-house English certificate. Those who complete an International test such as FCE, CAE or IELTS, will also receive that certificate from the relevant examination body.
Can I use my laptop computer in the school?
Yes. There is free Wi-Fi access throughout the building. We also have a computer suite with 10 computer points and webcams.
Will there be internet access or Wi-Fi in my accommodation?
Internet access is not guaranteed in the accommodation
When are school holidays?
The school is closed for Christmas / New year vacation for approximately two weeks. Please contact us for the exact dates each year. The school is also closed on the following national and bank holidays: March 17th, Easter Friday, Easter Monday, first Monday in May, June and August and the last Monday in October. There will be no classes on these dates and no reimbursement for classes missed.
You can view further FAQ questions online here.
General data protection regulation for data processor (gdpr)
- ISI Dublin is a Data Processor and shall process personal data only on the written instructions of the Client shall be the ‘Data Controller’ unless required by law. In such cases ISI Dublin shall inform client, of that legal requirement before processing, unless that law prohibits such information on important grounds of public interest.
- ISI Dublin shall implement appropriate technical and organisational measures in such a manner that processing will meet the requirements of this Regulation and ensure the protection of the rights of the data subject
- ISI Dublin shall have a procedure in place ensure that client is notified prior ISI Dublin’s engagement with another supplier which is acting as a sub processing of client’s personal data.
- In the case of general written authorisation, ISI Dublin shall inform client of any intended changes concerning the addition or replacement of other processors, thereby giving client the opportunity objects such changes.
- ISI Dublin commits confidentiality or are under an appropriate obligation of confidentiality (Non-Disclosure / Confidentiality Agreement)
ISI Dublin shall
- take all measures required pursuant security of processing.
- taking in account the nature of the processing, assist client by appropriate technical and organisational measures, insofar as this is possible, for the fulfilment of client’s obligation respond requests for exercising the data subject’s rights
- Assist client in ensuring compliance with the obligations pursuant security of Personal Data, notification of Personal Data breaches, Data Protection Impact Assessment and prior consultation, taking in account the nature of processing and the information available tit
- at the choice of client, delete or return all Personal Data client after the end of the provision of services relating processing, and delete existing copies unless the law requires storage of the Personal Data.
- make available client all information necessary demonstrate compliance with the obligations laid down in this section and allow for and contribute audits, including inspections, conducted by client or another auditor mandated by client.