Fernanda’s Story

Tell us a little bit about your course and teachers?

I take C1 level English in the morning classes. I have 12 classmates from all over the world, including Brazil, Argentina, Turkey, Spain, and Honduras.

For my first two weeks here, I had a British teacher, she was excellent, and I learned a lot from her and my classmates.

In my third week I got a new teacher, he is from Ireland. I really like my teacher, he is a really good, kind and respectful person. He encourages everybody to participate in class and helps us to understand any new topic that arises. 

What aspect of English language learning are you improving in the most?

I think the aspects that I am improving the most are my speaking and writing skills.

What aspect of English language learning are you finding the most challenging?

Even though I am improving my fluency, speaking in English is still the most challenging aspect to me.

Sometimes I don’t have all of the vocabulary I need when I want to say something, but I keep trying to do my best.

Do you get to practice your English outside of school hours?

Yes, I do. I practice my English on a daily basis, for example when I need to buy something, talk with my classmates, take the bus or train, etc.

I love the out and about school activities because I can also practice English while meeting new people and visiting interesting places in Cork City.

Why did you choose Cork City as your study abroad destination?

I chose to move to Cork City because, before coming here, I saw a reel on Instagram about the city and I immediately fell in love with Cork.

Furthermore, I have heard that in this city it is easier to find a job and accommodation.

 What is your favorite thing about Cork? 

The people. People are so friendly here. I feel welcome in Cork, and I am very happy to live here and learn more about Irish Culture.

Would you suggest Ireland as a study abroad destination to others and if so, why? 

I absolutely recommend Ireland as a study abroad destination to others because it is a lovely country, and we can really improve our English skills while enjoying an amazing experience in Ireland, the beautiful Emerald Island.

However, it would be good if the government could improve the processes for obtaining the Irish residence permit (IRP) and the PPS, so that they could be more agile and efficient, which would motivate more students to continue coming to the country.


Thank you so much for this extremely well written piece Fernanda!

We have no doubt you will turn your language challenges into motivation! Keep going! You are excelling.

Relocation Information

We totally agree that the government registration process needs to be made better for international students. The time delay in getting an Immigration registration appointment in Cork at the moment is unprecedented. Hopefully we will see changes for the better in 2024.

Until then remember that the special landing stamp you receive in your passport on arrival to the airport in Ireland will permit you to:

1. Request an Immigration meeting where you will later during your stay get your physical IRP / Immigration card (stamp 2 student visa)
2. Apply for a PPS number (official number for work purposes)
3. Apply for an Irish bank account (if you want one for proof of address or work purposes)

You do not need to wait until you have a physical IRP / Immigration card to apply for a PPS number or Irish bank account.

More Relocation Information.

Kelly’s Story

Can you tell us a little bit about your course and teachers?

It’s beyond my expectations, actually. I’m having classes with Heather and she is absolutely amazing. She is dynamic and has patience to teach us and we can see that she gives us her best. I really love her! About the course: if you are really interested in learning, you will. You must pay attention at classes, do the exercises, then you’ll have a good experience.

What aspect of English language learning are you improving in the most?

My speaking for sure. But also my grammar. And every day we learn some new words. So I guess it is a mix of all. There’s no way to improve just one thing. It’s all set. 

What aspect of English language learning are you finding the most challenging?

Grammar, but I know that I’ll get there! 

Have you worked in Cork City? If so, can you tell us a little about your job?

Yes, I am working. I work as a SPA Therapist at The Imperial Hotel. I absolutely love it. As it is the same profession that I have in my Country, I’m really happy. 

Do you get to practice your English outside of school hours?

Yes, everyday at my work, also I live in a house with my housemates who are from another countries, we all have to talk in English.  

Why did you choose Cork City to move to?

‘Cause here we (my husband and I) imagined the city would be quiet, which it really is, and we love it. The safety too. 

What is your favourite thing about Cork? 

Quietness is our top one. But also the safety, people are so friendly, and the quality of life.  

Would you suggest Ireland as a study abroad destination to others and if so, why?

Yes because it is an AMAZING opportunity, it’s a beautiful place to live, rich in culture, with friendly people.   

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Thank you Kelly. We wish you all the best with your study and work and life in Cork 🙂

Quentin’s Graduation

This week, I completed my ten-week English course at Cork English Academy and I am now ready to return to my home country. Although the duration of my studies was short, it significantly helped me improve my language skills, especially in communication and confidence.

I would like to express my gratitude to all the people who helped me during my time here, whether it was with my studies, daily life, or sightseeing. I am also thankful to my best friend, who supported me through all the difficult moments.

Moreover, I appreciate myself for taking risks and stepping out of my comfort zone. Not all endeavors had a perfect ending, but the experience of trying will surely lead to a better future.

As they say, “sometimes you have to take a leap of faith.”

Thank you Quentin. All the best to you in everything you do in life. May the luck of the Irish be with you!

Sabrina and Agust

”We’re lucky to have found CEA, the best English language school in Cork at this time, for me. All the staff are friendly. Their dedication to teaching and their commitment to their students are truly admirable.

I can’t thank you enough for all that they’ve done for us, and we’ll always remember the impact that they’ve had on our life. Thanks for a great first semester at CEA!
We’ll be back soon! ” Agust Sales.

Sabrina and Agust have successfully finished a 6 month General English course at Cork English Academy.

Here they are with Academic Director, Vincent.

We look forward to welcoming Sabrina and Agust back in June for their second course of General English and IELTS Academic Examination Preparation.

The IELTS Academic measures whether your level of English language proficiency is suitable for an academic environment. It reflects aspects of academic language and evaluates whether you’re ready to begin training or studying for example on an Undergraduate or Masters course delivered through English.

We have no doubt that Sabrina and Agust will excel on their new course, both fantastic students.

Merveil’s Story 

I am studying in B2 with Karen. Honestly, the first day I was surprised to be in B2. I thought I would be in A2! But I realized I just needed more confidence. Karen is a great teacher, every day I learn something new and also improve my English.

Since I started studying English at the Cork English Academy, I am not afraid to speak anymore. So, I am improving a lot in speaking and writing.

The aspect of English language learning that I’m finding the most challenging is the grammar. I must revise a lot and do a lot of practice to use the different tenses.

I practice my English outside of school hours.  I live in a share accommodation, so I speak English with the others tenants. In addition, Every Sunday evening I spend time with Irish people I met at Cork Church.

I chose Cork because I wanted to be immersed in the Irish culture and also because there are many beautiful places to visit.

My favorite thing about Cork is the weather. Because you don’t have to do a year to see the four seasons. Every day is spring, summer, autumn and winter. 

Yes I would recommend Ireland as a study abroad destination to others because If you can understand the Irish accent especially in Cork you can understand every English accent in the world!

Merveil BAKI, France