Category Archives: Blog

How to Budget

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How to Budget

The following approximate figures serve as an indication of the overall expenses per month.   Please note these figures serve as a guide only.

Accommodation Costs

Cork English Academy can organise both self catering apartments where you will share with other students or a host family for the duration of your stay. Please see our accommodation page for prices and more details.

If you are staying in Cork for a long term period you may decide to arrange your own accommodation. Please be aware that rents for a single room in a shared house or apartment in Cork city are usually between €300 and €500 per month. Prior to moving into your new accommodation you are usually required to pay the landlord or Letting Agency one month’s rent and a refundable security deposit (usually the same price as a month’s rent).

Electricity, heating and internet bills are usually extra at about €50 per person per month (based on three people sharing in a house/apartment).

Click Here for some useful tips for students renting accommodation in cork.

Food Costs

Source: www.tesco.ie . Tesco is a supermarket chain. Tesco’s own brand may be cheaper than other brands.

ItemPrice
Apples€0.43 each
Bananas â‚Ź1.25/kg
 Big Mac Meal (medium) â‚Ź6.40 approx
 Butter  250g â‚Ź1.84
 Cereal – Kellogg’s Cornflakes 500g â‚Ź2.29
 Chicken fillets – Tesco â‚Ź4.29 / kg
 Coca Cola 6 x 330ml â‚Ź3.75
 Coffee 100g instant Tesco â‚Ź3.49
 Eggs 6 pack Tesco â‚Ź1.59
 Loaf of Bread 800g â‚Ź1.87
 Milk (1 litre) â‚Ź1.28
 Onions â‚Ź1.39/ kg
 Oranges â‚Ź0.39 each
 Pasta 220g Tesco â‚Ź1.74
 Potatoes 5kg  Tesco organic â‚Ź6.99
 Rice 1 kg Tesco â‚Ź2.00 (Basmati €3.00)
 Sugar 1kg Tesco â‚Ź0.68
 Tea  bags 250g â‚Ź1.99
 Toilet Tissue 4 Roll â‚Ź2.00
 Toothpaste 100ml â‚Ź2.99
 Tuna – John West (brine) 185g â‚Ź1.65
 Washing Powder 2.4kg Tesco â‚Ź5.85
 Water 1 liter Ballygowan â‚Ź1.25
Yoghurt 6 x 125g€3.00

Miscellaneous Costs

 ItemPrice
Cinema Ticket€5 – €9
 Hair Cut â‚Ź10 – €40
 Newspaper â‚Ź1.90
 Second hand bike â‚Ź60 – €100
Sports Event€6 – €25

Top Shops for Groceries and Homeware

  • Groceries:
    • Tesco, Aldi & Lidl: Supermarkets offering budget-friendly prices.
    • English Market: An iconic indoor market in Cork City offering fresh produce, meat, and artisanal goods.
  • Homeware:
    • Penneys (Primark): Great for affordable clothing and homeware.
    • Michael Guineys: Affordable homeware
    • Dealz: For budget-friendly household essentials.

Ready to Start Your Language Journey?

Get a Customized PDF Quotation or Make a Booking Today

No commitment or payment is needed right away. Simply explore your options and choose what course timetable and accommodation suits you best.

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Contact Us

Weather in Cork

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How to prepare for the weather in Cork.

Everybody talks about the weather in Cork
 a great way to practice your English! You’ll often hear people talk about ‘four seasons in one day’. Here’s what to expect :

The Basics

  • Cork has a maritime climate, meaning mild winters and cool summers.
  • Winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing (typically 3°C – 8°C), while summer hovers between 15°C – 20°C.

Rain Gear

  • Top- Tip: Carry a light packable rain jacket. Even on sunny days, it’s common for a quick shower to pass through.
  • Waterproof shoes are also useful, especially in the winter months when streets can get wet.

Seasonal Tips

  • Spring (March to May): A mix of sunshine and showers, temperatures ranging from 8°C to 14°C. Perfect for layering lighter clothing.
  • Summer (June to August): Milder than what many international students might expect. A light jacket will still come in handy, especially for the evenings.
  • Autumn (September to November): Cooler, with the beautiful changing colors of the leaves. A waterproof coat is a must.
  • Winter (December to February): Rarely snows, but damp, cold winds mean you’ll want a warm coat, scarf, and gloves.

Gyms in Cork

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Find a gym with flexible options for your schedules and budget.

1. The Mardyke Arena

  • Location: University College Cork, Mardyke Walk, Cork
  • Facilities: State-of-the-art gym, swimming pool, fitness classes, and sports facilities.
  • Offers: Pay-as-you-go options, student memberships for UCC students, and discounts for non-UCC students.
  • Website: mardykearena.com

2. Gym Plus Cork

  • Location: Beasley Street, Blackpool Retail Park, Cork
  • Facilities: Gym, personal training, fitness classes, swimming pool, and sauna.
  • Offers: Pay-as-you-go, short-term memberships, and student discounts.
  • Website: gymplus.ie

3. The Montenotte Hotel Gym & Leisure Club

  • Location: Middle Glanmire Rd, Montenotte, Cork
  • Facilities: Gym, swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and fitness classes.
  • Offers: Pay-as-you-go rates and student memberships.
  • Website: themontenottehotel.com

4. Energie Fitness Cork

  • Location: 2 Washington Street, Cork City
  • Facilities: Fully equipped gym, personal training, and classes.
  • Offers: Affordable membership options with student discounts, short-term plans available.
  • Website: energiefitness.com

5. Snap Fitness Cork

  • Location: Unit 20, North Main Street, Cork
  • Facilities: 24/7 access gym, functional training area, free weights, and cardio equipment.
  • Offers: No contracts, pay-as-you-go options, and discounted student memberships.
  • Website: snapfitness.com

6. LeisureWorld Bishopstown

  • Location: Rossa Ave, Bishopstown, Cork
  • Facilities: Gym, swimming pool, group fitness classes, and personal training.
  • Offers: Pay-as-you-go options, student memberships.
  • Website: leisureworldcork.com

7. Dennehy’s Health & Fitness

  • Location: Penrose Quay and Douglas, Cork City
  • Facilities: Gym, personal training, group fitness classes, and strength training equipment.
  • Offers: Pay-as-you-go and student rates.
  • Website: dennehys.ie

8. Planet Health Club

  • Location: Tramore Rd, Cork City
  • Facilities: Gym, swimming pool, fitness classes, and sauna.
  • Offers: Student discounts and pay-as-you-go options.
  • Website: planethealthclub.ie

9. Fit100 Cork

  • Location: Deanrock Business Park, Togher, Cork
  • Facilities: Fully equipped gym, personal training, and fitness classes.
  • Offers: Pay-as-you-go and student-friendly pricing.
  • Website: fit100hq.com

Ready to Start Your Language Journey?

Get a Customized PDF Quotation or Make a Booking Today

No commitment or payment is needed right away. Simply explore your options and choose what course timetable and accommodation suits you best.

Get a Quote
Book Now
Contact Us

Cork Slang

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Cork Slang

Cork city is known for its charm, character, and unmistakable wit, but nothing captures its essence quite like the local slang. From colorful expressions to unique phrases, the language of Cork is as vibrant and lively as the city itself. Whether you’re new to the area or just curious about Corkonian lingo, this guide will help you navigate the playful and often humorous language that defines everyday life in Ireland’s “real capital.”

Good to Know Slang!

”Allergic”: To dread something/someone

”Bazzer/ Baz”: To get a haircut

”Bulb off/Bop off”: To look like someone

”Chalk it down”: To absolutely agree

‘‘Gattin”: To go drinking alcohol

”Gawlks”: To feel or get sick

”Haunted”: to be so lucky

”Massive”: To look beautiful/gorgeous

”Pure Daycent”: Excellent

”Razza”: Raspberry dilute to mix with alcohol ( like Vodka Razza)

”Morto”: To be mortified/ Embarrassed

”Weak”: to be infatuated by

“Langer”: A playful (sometimes rude) term; context matters!

“Banjaxed”: Broken or tired.

“The craic”: Fun or a good time (“What’s the craic?” = How are you?).

Maximize Your School Experience

Practical Language Skills

Classes are designed to provide you with the practical skills needed for real-life settings.

Use what you Learn in class everyday while out and about exploring Cork.

Study Tips

Sign-up for Workshops

The school holds 2 free workshops every week. Language Workshops: Pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary and Personal Development Workshops: CV building, cover letter and interview skills.

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Sign-up for Social Activities

Benefit from cultural and social activities organized by the school, giving you more opportunities to practice English outside the classroom while exploring Cork and Irish culture. 

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Courses

Whether you’re looking to improve your language skills for personal, professional, or Academic purposes, our courses in Cork city are the perfect choice.

General English Courses

English language courses designed to provide you with the practical skills needed for real-life settings.

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Work and Study Courses

Courses suitable for students who need to formalize their stay in Ireland for Stamp 2 Immigration purposes.

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IELTS Academic
Course

This IELTS Academic Course measures whether your English is suitable for an academic environment.

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Places to Study in Cork

Top Places to Study

Looking for a quiet spot to focus, Cork offers plenty of excellent study locations.

Cork City Library

Quay Co-Op Library

The Bookshelf Cafe

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Late Places to Study

Continue studying with friends after the school closes at 17:00, by exploring these late opening study-friendly spots.

WebWorkHouse

Bean and Leaf

Starbucks

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Early Places to Study

Check out these near-by early opening cafes if waiting for the school to open at 08:30.

Cafe Velo

Soma Cafe

Filter

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Explore Your New Home

Studying English in Cork isn’t just about learning a language – it’s about becoming part of a community, experiencing life in Ireland, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Get out there, meet new friends and practice your English.

Gyms in Cork

Offering Pay-as-you-go and discounts ideal for students.

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Cork Parkruns

 A free, weekly, 5km timed run with 3 locations around Cork city.

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Volunteer Cork

Make connections and practice your English through volunteering.

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Hotspots in Cork

Check out Cork’s favorite cafes, restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

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Parks in Cork

Parks, green spaces and river walkways dotted around the city center and neighboring suburbs.

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Beaches in Cork

Here are some of our favorite beaches near Cork City.

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Places of Interest

Ring the Shandon Bells in the 300-year-old tower of St. Anne’s Church, and marvel at the French Gothic spires of St. Finbarre’s Cathedral.

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Festivals in Cork

Festivals to cater for all tastes, with events in performance and visual arts, choral singing, comedy, film, folk music, jazz, literature, writing, and traditional music.

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Discover Cork

Your ideal City for Learning English. Cork’s locals are warm, approachable, and always ready for a chat—perfect for practicing your English skills.

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How to Guides

Check out these How-To Guides, designed to help you navigate life in a new city with ease.

Apply for a Leap Card

How to apply for a discount student bus ticket (leap card).

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Apply for a Stamp 2

How to apply for an IRP/Stamp 2 (suitable for non Eu students)

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Rent a Room

How to find your own accommodation in Cork.

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Prepare for the Weather

How to stay warm and dry. Seasonal tips and general temperatures.

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How to Budget

How to budget – Compared to larger cities like Dublin, Cork offers a more affordable cost of living.

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Apply for a Job

How to apply for a job – jobs websites and Jobs Club.

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Essential Apps for Life in Cork

The Transport apps are very useful if you end up living outside of the city center for example with host family.

TFI Go App

Perfect for paying for bus and train fares on-the-go.

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TFI Live App

Real-time information about public transport in Cork.

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Bike Share App

Rent a bike and easily explore the city.

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Cork Safety Alerts

Stay ahead of the traffic, and weather. Get push notifications for your area of Cork.

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Weather App

Met Éireann, the Irish National Meteorological Service, is the leading provider of weather information for Ireland.

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Revolut Bank App

Manage your finances easily with this online bank.

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Setting up a local Irish bank account is recommended if you’re staying in Ireland for a longer time.

Local Websites

Check out these websites for local information, events, and community connections.

Craving Cork

A guide to Cork’s best restaurants, cafes, and bars.

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Tripe + Drisheen

Independent News from across Cork city and county. 

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Pure Cork

Discover top tourist attractions and things to do around the city.

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Ready to Start Your Language Journey?

Get a Customized PDF Quotation or Make a Booking Today

No commitment or payment is needed right away. Simply explore your options and choose what course timetable and accommodation, suits you best.

Get a Quote
Book Now
Contact Us

Find an Agent: Mongolia

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Planning Your Language Travel to Cork, Ireland?

An expert agent can help you every step of the way.

Choosing the right agency means personalized support, tailored advice, and stress-free planning. Experienced agents will assist with:

  • Course selection
  • Accommodation options
  • Visa guidance (specific to Mongolian students)
  • Travel arrangements

Most agencies are well-informed about the visa process for Mongolian students and stay updated on the latest requirements from the closest Irish Embassy. Applications from Mongolia are currently being processed in by the Irish Embassy in Beijing.

Trusted Agencies

The following agencies have successfully helped students from Mongolia book courses at Cork English Academy :

Actra Education [email protected]
#702, Level 7, MN TOWER, 5th khoroo, Chingeltei district, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
(976) 7277-9797
Edu Help Agencyhttps://www.eduhelp.mn/
[email protected]

General Visa application Notes

Step 1: Online Application

Begin by filling out the online visa application form, which will be sent to your nearest Irish Embassy for consideration: Visa Application Form

Required Documents and Proof

Your nearest Irish Embassy will request the following:

  1. Enrollment Proof: Confirmation that you are enrolled in a course with at least 15 hours of organized daytime tuition weekly.
  2. Payment Proof: Evidence of having paid the required course fees.
  3. Academic Ability: Confirmation of your ability to complete the chosen course.
  4. Financial Proof:
    • €10,000 for long-term Study D visas.
    • €4,680 for short-term Study C visas (1–12 weeks).
  5. Private Medical Insurance: Valid coverage for your stay in Ireland.
  6. Educational History: Documentation for any gaps in education.
  7. Intent to Return: Proof that you plan to return to your home country after completing your studies.

Common Reasons for Visa Refusals

Visa applications may be refused for reasons such as:

  • Previous Refusals: If you’ve been denied a visa for another country.
  • Insufficient Financial Proof: Missing savings evidence or unexplained savings sources.
  • Non-Genuine Purpose: Suspected reasons other than studying in Ireland.
  • Educational History Gaps: Unexplained interruptions in your education.
  • Inauthentic Documents: Fraudulent certificates or diplomas.
  • Lack of Justification: Unable to explain the need to study in Ireland for career or academic advancement.

Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Embassy officials may request additional documentation as they see fit.

Visa Application Support

Once your invoice is fully paid, we will provide you or your agency with all necessary documents for your visa application.

If your visa is not issued, the refund policy is as follows:

  • A non-refundable deposit of €200 and a €65 registration fee apply (€265 in total).
  • You must submit the original letter of refusal from the Irish Embassy.
  • Refund requests must be made within 6 months of the refusal date.
  • Refunds will be processed within 15 working days upon receiving the required documentation.

Find an Agent in Other Countries:

Learn More about Cork English Academy

The School

An adult only school providing a mature learning environment, focusing on helping you enhance your English for work, study, and everyday life.

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English Courses

English language courses designed to provide you with the practical skills needed for real-life settings.

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Accommodation

Fully immerse yourself in local culture by living with a host family or enjoy the independence of a shared apartment.

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