International schools in Ireland 2026: fees & curricula
Free English-language public schools — international schools are few.
Ireland's big advantage is English-language, largely free public and state-funded schools of good quality, so most expat families don't need an international school. Dedicated international schools are few (mainly around Dublin, plus French, German and Japanese schools). Homeschooling is a constitutional right, regulated via registration.
International schools in Ireland
Because Ireland is English-speaking, its free state-funded primary and secondary schools serve most expat families well, and quality is good — so the dedicated international-school sector is small. What exists (e.g. Nord Anglia Dublin, plus French, German and Japanese schools) clusters around Dublin.
Public schools and homeschooling
State and voluntary schools are free (with some voluntary contributions); fee-paying private schools follow the Irish curriculum rather than international ones. Homeschooling is constitutionally protected and legal, subject to registration and assessment by Tusla.
At a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| International schools | Few (mostly Dublin); English state schools |
| Curricula | Irish curriculum / some IB |
| Typical tuition | State schools free; private moderate |
| Public school access | Free, English-taught |
| Homeschooling | Legal (register with Tusla) |
Where it fits in a borderless plan
English-medium schooling makes Ireland easy for anglophone families. Schools are often the deciding factor in a family move. Weigh them with healthcare, banking and where you are tax-resident. Compare options in our international-schools guide.
Frequently asked questions
How much are international schools in Ireland?
Typical tuition: State schools free; private moderate. Curricula include Irish curriculum / some IB. Fees change yearly and vary widely by school and age — request current fee schedules.
Can expat children attend public school in Ireland?
Public school access: Free, English-taught. Language of instruction and enrolment rules matter — check with the local education authority for your area.
Is homeschooling legal in Ireland?
Homeschooling: Legal (register with Tusla). Rules and recognition differ by country and change, so take local legal advice before relying on it.
Directories & official sources
Providers and rules change — these are the authoritative directories and regulators to check for current, complete listings:
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