# An overview of Irish Education System | Schooling | Moving to Ireland > Education is a fundamental right and a cornerstone of a healthy society, and Ireland has a strong education system that is highly regarded around the… Source: https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/schooling/an-overview-of-irish-education-system/ Schooling · Step 1 of 6 # An overview of Irish Education System 2 min read · Updated 13 September 2026 Education is a fundamental right and a cornerstone of a healthy society, and Ireland has a strong education system that is highly regarded around the world. In this article, we will explore the education system in Ireland, including the different levels of schooling, the qualifications that can be obtained, and how to enroll in schools. ## Primary Schooling Primary education is compulsory in Ireland, and all children between the ages of six and 16 are required to attend school. Primary schools are publicly funded and follow the national curriculum. Students generally begin primary school at the age of four or five and complete it at the age of 12. In primary school, students learn subjects such as English, Irish, mathematics, social, environmental and scientific education (SESE), and physical education. They also learn about art, music, and drama. Primary schools in Ireland often have a strong focus on extracurricular activities, such as sports and music. ## Secondary Schooling After completing primary school, students move on to secondary school. Secondary education is not compulsory in Ireland, but the vast majority of students continue their education at this level. Secondary schools can be either publicly funded or fee-paying. At secondary school, students study a wide range of subjects, including English, Irish, mathematics, science, business studies, history, geography, and modern languages. They also have the opportunity to specialize in certain subjects. Students take their [Leaving Certificate examinations](http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/education/state_examinations/established_leaving_certificate.html) at the end of secondary school, which determine which college or university they can attend. ## Post-Secondary Education Post-secondary education in Ireland is provided by universities, institutes of technology, and colleges of education. The most prestigious universities in Ireland include Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and the National University of Ireland, Galway. Students can obtain various qualifications at the post-secondary level, including certificates, diplomas, and degrees. There are also opportunities to obtain professional qualifications in areas such as law, medicine, and teaching. ## Enrolling in School Enrolling in a school in Ireland is generally straightforward. Parents of school-age children can apply to their local school, and the school will usually ask for proof of the child's age and address. For international students, enrolling in an Irish school can be a bit more complicated. Non-Irish nationals are entitled to free primary and secondary education if they are legally resident in Ireland. To enroll in school, parents will need to provide proof of their child's age and residency status. ## In Conclusion The education system in Ireland is comprehensive and well-respected. All children are entitled to a primary education, and the vast majority continue on to secondary school. There are also numerous opportunities for post-secondary education, with a wide range of qualifications available. Enrolling in an Irish school is generally straightforward, and international students are entitled to free primary and secondary education if they are legally resident in Ireland. Whether you are a parent or a student, Ireland's education system offers many opportunities for learning and growth. ![](https://www.movingtoireland.co/apple-touch-icon.png) You have read 32% of this guide ## Keep reading in the Moving to Ireland app The rest of **An overview of Irish Education System** — about 2 minutes more — is in the app, free to download, alongside 98 other guides and a checklist built around your own move. Still to come in this guide - Secondary Schooling - Post-Secondary Education - Enrolling in School - In Conclusion [Download free on the App Store](https://apps.apple.com/app/moving-to-ireland/id6446055261) iPhone and iPad · no account needed ## More on schooling [All 6 guides in this section](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/schooling/) - ### [Pre-school education and childcare](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/schooling/pre-school-education-and-childcare/) Preschool education and childcare are crucial in a child's early development. In Ireland, the government has numerous initiatives to support families in… 2 min read - ### [Primary and post-primary education](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/schooling/primary-and-post-primary-education/) Education is an important aspect of Irish society, with a strong emphasis placed on providing quality education to all students. Ireland's education… 2 min read - ### [State examinations](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/schooling/state-examinations/) In Ireland, the State Examinations are a vital part of the education system. These exams are taken by students at the end of their secondary school… 1 min read - ### [Third-level education](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/schooling/third-level-education/) Third level education in Ireland is highly regarded and recognized worldwide, with a range of courses available across universities, institutes of… 2 min read Keep going ## Get the full schooling roadmap in the app Moving to Ireland turns 99 guides into a personal checklist. 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