Irish College of English
Irish College of English: Courses, Fees, Accommodation and Student Life in Ireland
The Irish College of English (ICE) is an independent English-language school located in Malahide, a coastal town in North County Dublin, Ireland. The school provides English-language programs for adults, juniors, school groups, and international students, with a strong emphasis on communication, progression, student support, and cultural experience.
One of the distinctive features of the Irish College of English is its location. Rather than being situated directly in central Dublin, the school is based in Malahide, giving students access to a quieter coastal community while remaining close to Dublin city centre. The school states that Malahide is approximately 22 minutes from central Dublin by DART and around 10 minutes from Dublin Airport.
For international students, this combination can be attractive. Students can study English in a smaller community, experience Irish family life through homestay accommodation, and travel into Dublin for additional cultural, social, and educational experiences.
About the Irish College of English
The Irish College of English has been providing English-language education for more than 30 years. The school offers programs throughout the year and caters to a wide range of learners.
Its adult programs include General English, combination courses with individual tuition, one-to-one English, and an Academic Year Programme for eligible non-EEA students.
The school also operates junior programs, summer camps, school-group programs, and short educational stays.
ICE describes its teaching approach as focused on progression and personal attention. Its adult programs are designed for learners from approximately A2, or pre-intermediate level, through C1, or advanced level, depending on the specific course.
The school is recognized by ACELS, a quality assurance scheme associated with Quality and Qualifications Ireland, and is a member of MEI, which provides additional learner-protection arrangements.
Location: Malahide, Dublin
One of the biggest differences between the Irish College of English and many language schools in Dublin is its location.
Malahide is a coastal town north of Dublin city. It has a village-like atmosphere, beaches, coastal walks, restaurants, cafés, shops, and historic attractions.
Students can experience a more relaxed environment while still having convenient transportation into Dublin.
The DART railway provides a connection between Malahide and central Dublin, making it possible for students to explore the capital outside school hours.
The location is also convenient for international students arriving by air because Dublin Airport is relatively close to Malahide.
For students who prefer to live somewhere quieter than the centre of Dublin, Malahide can be an attractive alternative.
General English Course: Irish College of English
The General English GE15 program is one of the school's principal adult courses.
It provides 15 hours of group English classes per week, generally Monday through Friday from 9:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The course is available for learners from A2 to C1 and focuses on the major areas of language development, including speaking, listening, reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and communication.
The school emphasizes small classes and personal attention.
This can be particularly useful for students who want opportunities to speak during lessons rather than spending most of their classroom time listening to a teacher.
The program can be taken for short stays or longer periods, depending on the student's objectives.
General English Fees
The school's current published pricing provides a useful indication of the cost of General English.
For the GE15 course, the listed prices include: Irish College of English
- 1 week: €265
- 2 weeks: €498
- 3 weeks: €689
- 4 weeks: €843
- 5–12 weeks: €196 per week
- 13–24 weeks: €175 per week
- Academic Year Programme: €3,710
A €75 registration fee applies to adult courses and includes a course book.
Prices can change, so prospective students should confirm the current fees and what is included before enrollment.
Students should also remember that tuition is only one part of the overall cost of studying in Ireland.
Accommodation, food, transportation, insurance, flights, entertainment, and personal expenses should also be included in the budget.
Combination English CE20
Students who want more individual attention can consider the Combination English CE20 course.
This program combines 15 hours of General English group classes with additional one-to-one tuition.
The individual lessons allow students to focus on specific weaknesses, professional requirements, examination preparation, or other personal objectives.
The current course structure provides 20 hours of tuition per week, with the General English classes taking place in the morning and individual lessons generally scheduled afterward.
The published prices are: Irish College of English
- 1 week: €530
- 2 weeks: €1,033
- 3 weeks: €1,495
- 4 weeks: €1,892
The registration fee is €75 and includes a textbook.
This type of program can be particularly useful for professionals or students who have a specific language goal and want additional teacher attention.
Intensive Combination English CE25
For students seeking a more intensive program, the CE25 course combines 15 hours of General English with 10 hours of one-to-one tuition.
This provides 25 hours of English instruction per week.
The school describes the course as suitable for students who want rapid progress or need to focus on particular areas of English.
The published prices include:
- 1 week: €859
- 2 weeks: €1,680
- 3 weeks: €2,438
- 4 weeks: €3,127
The program is available to students from A2 to C1 and is designed for adults aged 18 and over.
Because this is a much more intensive option, students should consider whether they have enough time and energy to benefit from a full schedule of classroom and individual instruction.
Academic Year Programme: Irish College of English
The Academic Year Programme is particularly relevant to non-EEA students interested in combining English-language study with a longer stay in Ireland.
ICE currently describes the program as consisting of 25 course weeks within a 33-week overall period, although some school information describes the program in terms of the broader 35-week structure. Students should confirm the exact current dates and structure when enrolling.
The course provides 15 hours of General English per week and concludes with a recognized English examination, currently IELTS for the relevant program.
The program is aimed at students aged 18 and older.
The published course fee is €3,710 and includes tuition, registration, course materials, medical insurance, learner protection, and the IELTS examination.
Work and Study in Ireland
One of the reasons international students choose longer English courses in Ireland is the possibility of combining study with permitted employment.
For eligible Academic Year students, ICE states that students may work up to 20 hours per week during course periods and up to 40 hours during permitted holiday periods.
The applicable rules are subject to Irish immigration requirements and the student's individual immigration permission.
Students should therefore understand that enrolling in a language course does not automatically give every international student the right to work.
Nationality, immigration permission, course eligibility, attendance, and other requirements can all be relevant.
Students should obtain current immigration information before traveling to Ireland.
Attendance Requirements: Irish College of English
Attendance is particularly important for students whose immigration status depends on an approved study program.
ICE states that Academic Year students are required to maintain 85% attendance.
Students should therefore treat their classes seriously.
Missing lessons regularly can affect academic progress and may create problems for students whose immigration permission depends on meeting attendance requirements.
The school also expects students to complete the required course weeks within the specified period.
Accommodation and Host Families
Accommodation is a major part of the Irish College of English experience.
The school strongly features host-family accommodation, particularly in Malahide and surrounding communities.
For adult students, the current published homestay price is €280 per week, including a single room, breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner. A €100 administration fee applies to homestay accommodation. Special dietary requirements can involve an additional weekly charge.
Living with an Irish host family can provide a significant advantage for language development.
Instead of using English only in the classroom, students can practice speaking during breakfast, dinner, family conversations, shopping trips, and everyday interactions.
Why Choose a Homestay?
A homestay can be particularly valuable for students who want cultural immersion.
Students can learn about Irish food, family routines, local traditions, and everyday communication.
They may also receive practical guidance about transportation, local facilities, and life in Ireland.
However, students should understand that a host family is a real household rather than a hotel.
There may be household rules concerning meal times, cleanliness, visitors, noise, laundry, and other matters.
Students who are respectful, flexible, and willing to communicate generally have a better experience.
Junior Programs
The Irish College of English also offers programs for younger students.
Junior programs can include English classes, activities, excursions, accommodation, and cultural experiences.
The school operates homestay programs in Malahide as well as residential options connected with partner boarding-school locations.
For school groups, ICE offers short programs that can run from several nights to multiple weeks.
These programs combine English lessons with cultural activities and excursions around Dublin and Ireland.
Mini-Stay Programs: Irish College of English
The school's mini-stay programs are designed particularly for school groups.
The current 2026 program information describes stays from five nights to three weeks, with 15 hours of English tuition per week.
A classic mini-stay can include full-board homestay accommodation, activities, and a full-day excursion.
Students can therefore combine English learning with sightseeing and cultural immersion.
For international schools and educational organizations, this can provide an alternative to a traditional school trip.
Student Welfare
Student welfare is an important part of the school's programs.
For junior groups, ICE states that hosts are police vetted and that students receive support throughout their stay.
The school also describes 24-hour emergency support for junior programs.
For adult students, support is also important because many learners are living abroad independently for the first time.
The school promotes a supportive environment and provides opportunities for students to communicate with staff when they need assistance.
Social Activities
English learning becomes easier when students have opportunities to use the language socially.
ICE promotes a social program that gives students opportunities to interact outside formal lessons.
Activities can include cultural events, local activities, group outings, and opportunities to explore Dublin and the surrounding area.
The school also promotes intercultural events that bring students together.
These activities can help international students make friends and practice conversational English.
Exploring Malahide
Malahide itself provides plenty for students to explore.
The town has a coastal setting and is known for Malahide Castle, the marina, beaches, parks, restaurants, and walking routes.
Students can enjoy the quieter environment during the week and travel into Dublin when they want a larger-city experience.
This gives students two experiences at once: local Irish community life and access to Dublin.
Exploring Dublin: Irish College of English
Dublin offers a wide range of attractions and activities.
Students can visit historic buildings, museums, galleries, parks, libraries, shopping areas, restaurants, and music venues.
The city also has a strong literary and cultural heritage.
Students can use their free time to explore different neighborhoods and practice English in real-world situations.
The proximity of Malahide to central Dublin means that students do not have to choose permanently between city life and a quieter residential environment.
Teaching Quality
ICE places considerable emphasis on qualified teachers and progression.
The school states that its teachers have at least a bachelor's degree and a recognized English-language teaching qualification.
Classes are designed to encourage communication and development.
For students, teacher quality can have a major impact on their experience.
A good language course should provide opportunities to speak, receive feedback, ask questions, and develop practical language skills.
Who Should Consider Irish College of English?
The Irish College of English can be suitable for a variety of students.
It may appeal to:
- Adults improving General English
- Professionals requiring specialized English
- Students preparing for English examinations
- Non-EEA students considering a longer study program
- Students seeking an English immersion experience
- Teenagers participating in junior programs
- School groups looking for educational trips
- Students who prefer a coastal location near Dublin
The choice of program should depend on the student's age, English level, objectives, budget, and intended length of stay.
Advantages of Studying at ICE
There are several notable advantages.
Coastal Dublin Location
Malahide provides a quieter environment than central Dublin while maintaining convenient transportation connections.
Range of Programs: Irish College of English
Students can choose from General English, combination courses, individual tuition, Academic Year programs, and junior offerings.
Homestay Experience
Host-family accommodation can provide daily opportunities to practice English and experience Irish culture.
Student Support: Irish College of English
The school emphasizes welfare, personal attention, and progression.
International Environment
Students can meet learners from different countries and develop international friendships.
Things Students Should Consider
No language school is ideal for every student.
Students should consider whether they prefer a coastal town or a city-centre campus.
Those who want to walk directly from their accommodation into central Dublin may prefer a school in the city itself.
Students should also budget carefully for living costs.
While tuition prices are clearly published, accommodation, transportation, food, personal expenses, and entertainment can significantly increase the total cost of studying in Ireland.
Students interested in the Academic Year Programme should also carefully review the current immigration requirements before committing to the course.
Conclusion
The Irish College of English offers international students a combination of English-language education, Irish cultural immersion, and access to Dublin.
Its location in Malahide is one of its strongest distinguishing features. Students can live in a coastal Irish community while remaining close enough to Dublin to enjoy the capital's cultural, educational, and social opportunities.
The school provides General English programs as well as more intensive combination courses with individual tuition. For eligible non-EEA students, its Academic Year Programme offers a longer English-learning experience that includes 25 weeks of tuition and a recognized English examination.
Accommodation, particularly homestay accommodation, is another important part of the school's offering. Living with a host family can give students regular opportunities to use English outside the classroom while learning about Irish daily life.
The school also provides junior programs and group mini-stays, making it relevant not only to individual adult learners but also to schools and educational organizations.
For students looking for a language school near Dublin rather than directly in the city centre, the Irish College of English provides an interesting combination of academic instruction, cultural immersion, student support, and coastal Irish living.
Ultimately, the best program depends on the student's individual goals. Someone seeking everyday English may find General English sufficient, while a professional may benefit from one-to-one tuition. A student planning a longer stay may consider the Academic Year Programme, while younger learners can explore the school's junior and summer opportunities.
With its Malahide location, range of courses, host-family options, and emphasis on student progression, the Irish College of English can be a strong option for international students who want to improve their English while experiencing life in Ireland.
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