Work and Study Programme

Suitable for Study Visa and Stamp 2 Applicants

Students from outside the EU are welcome to register for these programmes. All students, both European and non-European, participate in the same small-group, level-specific classes, ensuring an inclusive and high-quality learning experience.

Work and Study Morning

25 Week General English Morning

Monday to Friday 09:00 to 12:15

Work and Study Afternoon

25 Week General English Afternoon

Monday to Friday 13:15 to 16:30

Work and Study with IELTS

25 Week General English + IELTS Morning

Monday to Friday 09:00 to 12:15

The 25-week course price remains the same for all students; however, non-EU students are required to include additional mandatory elements to meet immigration regulations. These include a final external exam, learner protection, and medical insurance. Enrolling in one of these programmes also grants non-EU students work permissions in Ireland, which is why they are commonly referred to as “Work and Study” programmes.

Mandatory Elements to Meet Immigration Regulations

Medical Insurance

Having Medical Insurance is an Immigration requirement for stamp 2 applicants. The school can order MediCover insurance on your behalf. MediCover is provided by Arachas and underwritten by Chubb Insurance, offering financial protection and medical assistance throughout your 8-month Work and Study stay in Ireland. This coverage ensures peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your studies and enjoy your time in Cork.

Learner Protection/ PEL

Having Learner Protection/ Protection for Enrolled Learners (PEL) is an Immigration requirement for stamp 2 applicants and ensures that in the unlikely event of school closure, students are safeguarded and can continue their studies at an alternative accredited institution, providing security and peace of mind throughout their course. PEL is provided by Arachas and underwritten by Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC, a company regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Final Exam Options

TIE Exam

  • The TIE exam follows the 25 week General English Course.
  • The minimum level required to sit the TIE exam is A1
  • There is no specific exam preparation course as the exam tests General English, however there is preparatory work to complete.
  • To prepare, you need to do three tasks and record them in a logbook: Carry out a short project on a subject of interest to you, Read a book of your choice in English at your level and follow a News Story in the newspapers and/or on TV or radio.

IELTS

  • The IELTS Exam follows the 19 weeks General English + 6 weeks IELTS course ( 25 weeks total).
  • The IELTS Academic course specifically measures whether your level of English language proficiency is suitable for an academic environment.
  • It reflects aspects of academic language (charts, statistics etc) and evaluates whether you’re ready to begin training or studying for example on an Undergraduate or Masters course delivered through English. 
  • IELTS Minimum Level: A2 Pre-Intermediate starting the 25 week course ( B1+ Strong Intermediate on starting the 6 week standalone course).
  • IELTS is valid for 2 years.
  • You can’t ‘fail’ IELTS – your results are given on a scale from 4.0 to 8.9

Course Structure

Daily General English lessons covers all of the English language skills – speaking, listening, reading and writing with an emphasis on speaking and listening.

The main focus of the General English courses is on communication skills in real life settings. Our syllabus is task-based, with students carrying out tasks in class to provide you with the necessary skills to manage using the English language in real-life situations. 

We have stated objectives and weekly targeted learning outcomes which are achievable and measurable. Your teachers will monitor your progress throughout your course and you will receive regular feedback and advice.

Work Opportunities

Students can work in Ireland during their language abroad stay. This allows you put what you have learned in class into practice in real life work settings.

While registered on a Work and Study Programme you will be permitted to work 40 hours per week during the months of June, July, August and September and from 15 December to 15 January inclusive. At all other times you can work up to 20 hours per week.

Many of our students take up part-time or casual work in the hospitality sector, such as roles in restaurants, cafes, or retail, during their 8-month study period.  Cork’s welcoming environment and bustling hospitality sector make it easier to find part-time work during your studies. We hold a monthly Jobs Club in the school which is focused for English language student needs, where we help students with CVs , cover letters and interview skills. Check out our Guide to Work Opportunities in Cork.

Immigration Status

All non-EU students intending on staying in Ireland for over 90 days will need to apply for permission to remain while you are here in Ireland. For some countries it may be necessary for you to apply for a visa before you travel also.

Relocation Guides 

Relocation Guide

Information suitable for students from outside of the EU registering for a Stamp 2 stay in Ireland.

Student Handbook

Essential Course Information and School Policies for a Successful Learning Experience.

Become a Corkonian

Info on weather, transport, shopping & useful apps to help you settle in and become a local of Cork!

× Send a Message