General English courses in Dublin
General English is the most flexible way to study in Dublin. Classes build your speaking, listening, reading and writing across the CEFR range, from beginner (A1) to advanced (C1). Most schools place you by level after a short test, and you can usually start on set Monday dates and study for anything from a week to a full academic year.
What to look for in a General English course
- Accreditation by ACELS/QQI, Ireland's quality mark for English language schools.
- The lesson length and lessons per week: 20 lessons can mean 15 to 20 contact hours depending on whether a lesson is 45, 50 or 60 minutes.
- A level placement test, so you join a class that matches your ability.
- Morning or afternoon timetables, and whether the schedule fits work or other study.
- Average and maximum class size, so you get enough speaking time.
English schools in Dublin
Visa-eligible schools are listed first. Each shows its Google rating and a from-price per week where published, with options from €130 per week. Open a school to enquire directly.
Englishour – Classroom Building (Eden Quay)
VisaEnglish Path Dublin
VisaCastleforbes College English School Dublin
VisaYour English Language School
VisaEverest Language School
VisaCentral School of English
VisaIrish College of English
VisaThe Linguaviva Centre
VisaELTA - The School of Spoken English - Callan Method Dublin School
VisaULearn English School Dublin
VisaDelfin English School Dublin
VisaAtlas Language School
VisaFrequently asked questions
What is a General English course?
General English develops the four core skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing) for everyday and study situations. It suits all levels from beginner to advanced and is the most common course type at Irish schools.
What levels can I study at in Dublin?
Schools teach the full CEFR range, from A1 (beginner) to C1 (advanced), and sometimes C2. You take a short placement test so you join the right class.
How many hours a week is a General English course?
Courses are usually described in lessons per week (often 15, 20 or more). The actual contact hours depend on the lesson length: 20 lessons of 45 minutes is 15 hours, while 20 lessons of 60 minutes is 20 hours. Check each school's lesson length.
Can I work while studying General English?
To work on a Stamp 2 student permission you generally need a course on the ILEP or TrustEd Ireland list lasting at least 25 weeks with a minimum of 15 hours a week. Short General English courses do not usually qualify. Check the current rules at irishimmigration.ie.