How the Irish school system works
Ireland has one of the best education systems in the world and has an internationally renowned reputation for academic quality. Education in Ireland is compulsory from ages 6 to 16 or until students have completed three years of Second Level (Post-Primary) Education. First level students typically start at aged 4 years and finish at aged 12, whilst second level students finish at aged 18 years. Schools are open for approximately nine months between September and June.
- Irish primary students are typically aged 4 years – 12 years.
- Post Primary level students finish school at aged 18 years.
- 1st, 2nd & 3rd years are called the Junior Cycle.
- 4th Year (Transition Year) 5th & 6th Year are called the Senior Cycle.
- Schools are open for approximately nine months between September and June.
- There are three school semesters (terms) in the academic year: Term 1 – September to December; Term 2 – January to March (Easter); Term 3 – April to June.
Early application is essential to ensure a place in your school of choice.
Junior Cycle | 1st Year • 2nd Year • 3rd Year |
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The junior cycle covers the first three years of secondary school. Children begin their second level education around the age of 12 or 13. The Junior Cycle examination is held at the end of the Junior Cycle in post-primary schools and students normally sit the exam at the age of 15 or 16.
Senior Cycle | 4th Year • 5th Year • 6th Year |
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The Senior Cycle caters for students in the 15 to 18 year age group. It inlcludes Transition year, which follows immediately after the Junior Cycle.
Transition Year (TY) or 4th Year is a one-year programme between Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle. It is designed to act as a bridge between the two by facilitating the smooth transaition from the more dependent learning of the Junior Cycle to the more independent self-directed learning required for the Senior Cycle.
5th & 6th Year follows Transition year and aims to provide learners with a broad, balanced education while also offering some specialisation towards a particular career option.
The Leaving Certificate Examination is held at the end of the Senior Cycle, 6th year and its internationally recognised for all degree programmes at Iris, UK, US and European universities. Entry to third level education is closely linked to the results achieved by students at this examination.
Living and studying Ireland was an unforgettable experience for me.. I never had trouble in communicating with my host parents which made my stay even better. Overall, I enjoyed my stay with this family very much! I miss them a lot. As of today, I am very grateful that they were my parents! I know that I am always welcomed in their house. I will never forget about everything that they gave me and will always remember those days!
Frequently asked questions

We are with our students every step of the way on their High School journey, caring, nurturing, supporting and creating solutions to any issue, however small. Our team have the experience to respond and react appropriately whatever the situation.
“At IELA we look after your child and offer the same level of support that we would expect for our own family”.
Emer, Director of IELA.