High School Abroad in Ireland

Rolling hills, bustling cities, and historic sites make the Emerald Isle an unforgettable learning environment.

Discover the majesty and rich culture of the Emerald Isle.

With CIEE, you’ll have the unique opportunity to experience Ireland as its own people do. Give Gaelic football a try with your classmates after school, or meet up with friends at the local pub on a Saturday afternoon for traditional Irish stew and soda bread. Join your homestay for a scenic drive, or hike through the countryside on a crisp fall afternoon.

From sleepy Louisburgh, nestled at the foot of Croagh Patrick, to charming Ballylickey in the heart of magnificent Bantry Bay, Ireland offers an idyllic setting for a high school study abroad program. Through classes at a local high school, extracurricular activities, and living with a homestay, you’ll immerse yourself completely in Irish culture and discover what it’s like to step outside of your comfort zone and make the world your classroom.

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Ireland.

Orientation

Upon arriving in Ireland, you will be greeted by your homestay. Within a few days of settling in, you will meet with your Local Coordinator, who, along with your homestay, will be your primary support in Ireland. Your Local Coordinator will arrange an orientation — for you and any other students placed in your area — within the first few weeks of the program. The orientation location and flow may vary every semester but always cover themes such as — culture, academics, social norms, current events — all designed to best prepare you for your experience in Ireland. Orientations are a great to meet other U.S. exchange students living the same experience as you, and get to know one another through fun activities and meals!