International FAQ's

What Courses are approved for Visa purposes?
Click Here to view our courses

How do you get to Dublin?
Dublin International Airport is accessible to all major European Cities and worldwide destinations.  All students can be collected on arrival at Dublin Airport by a College representative and transferred to the arranged accommodation.

When are National Holidays observed?

What Time-Zone is Ireland in?
Ireland is in GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) which is one hour behind CET (Central European Time).

What is the weather like in Ireland?
Ireland has a temperate climate influenced by the relatively warm waters of the Gulf Stream. During the winter months temperatures rarely drop below freezing and snow is uncommon. The coldest months are January and February, which have average temperatures of between 4°C and 7°C. July and August are the warmest months with average temperatures of between 14°C and 16°C. We get many rain showers, one of the main reasons why our landscape is so green. A raincoat or an umbrella is therefore an important accessory for any visiting student!

When are the course fees due?
All fees must be paid in full in advance of commencement of the course.

What happens if my visa is refused?
If your visa is refused you have a choice to appeal the decision under the guidelines given by the Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform. Click here for more information.

What are my English language requirements?
Please see each course for entry requirements. For the purposes of applying for a visa we recommend that you follow the advice given by the Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform. Click here for more information.

What is the procedure for transferring to a higher level on an English language course?
Diligent students progress at a fast pace and may wish to transfer to a higher level after a few weeks. Teachers are very approachable and will advise students regarding transfer. The director of studies reviews placement of students on a weekly basis with the class teacher and the appropriate transfers are made.

Is it possible to combine an English language course with a Professional qualification?
Yes, the director of studies will advise you about course options and a career path. For non-native speakers of English it is recommended that an English language course is taken with the option of validating your level of English with exam preparation classes for TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS etc.

What Facilities does the College offer?
Our facilities include 4 computer laboratories, Student Self Study room, a dedicated on-line examination room, a large number of classrooms which are well equipped with the most advanced teaching aids – computers, audio, video and LCD equipment. This ensures a varied and stimulating learning experience. The classrooms are bright and airy and provide an atmosphere conducive to learning.

Computer Facilities; Wi-Fi, Moodle, Email
Students have access to a suite of the most up to date computer application programmes used in industry. All students have supervised access to the Internet. Wi-Fi is available in the Mountjoy campus and will be extended over the coming year to Belvedere Place. Moodle is an effective communication tool for a number of courses. Email can be set up for all students.

Is it possible to change host family?
Accommodation is carefully chosen, approved and monitored to ensure that students have a pleasant experience. In exceptional circumstances where a student is unhappy, our Accommodation officers will make alternative arrangements.

Do I need Medical and Travel Insurance?
All students are advised to obtain both in their own country prior to departure. Dorset College can organise medical insurance on the students’ behalf and details can be issued on request.

Is it difficult to get work in Dublin?
There are many part time jobs available to students, provided they have a reasonable level of English. Students find work in hotels, shops, restaurants and pubs. The minimum wage is €8.65 and students are entitled to work for 20 hours a week. Dorset College has many links with employers and may be able to facilitate students.

What Banks are there and what are their opening hours?
The main banks are Bank of Ireland AIB and Ulster Bank. They accept Maestro and Cirrus transactions. EU students generally do not have to pay charges using their ATM cards in Ireland but this does vary from bank to bank. Banks in Ireland are generally open from 9am to 4pm, some banks open late on Thursdays until 5pm. We can facilitate long term students who wish to open a bank account while in Dublin.

What financial arrangements do I need to organise in advance of coming to Ireland?
Ireland’s currency is the Euro (€). Students from outside the Euro zone should change their money before coming to Dublin as some currencies may be difficult to change in Ireland. It is advisable that students do not arrive in Dublin with large sums of cash. Travellers’ cheques are a recommended alternative for students. Visa, MasterCard, Amex as well as Cirrus and Maestro cards are accepted by most Dublin vendors and ATM facilities.

What are Public Transport facilities like in Dublin and in Ireland?
Dublin has a well established public transport network served by Dublin Bus and local trains. Student Commuter tickets for unlimited travel on Dublin Bus and Dart train services can be purchased at a reasonable rate from Dublin Bus Head Office.

• Last service is usually around 11 p.m. to midnight. A Night Link bus service operates on the hour from 12 midnight to 3 a.m. Thursday to Sunday from the city centre. Student discounts do not apply for this.
• Accommodation arrangements are made on direct routes to the College.
• We arrange accommodation within one bus journey from the College and on direct routes.