Frequently
Asked Questions
When should I have my application
submitted by?
We encourage those students interested in applying to do so as soon
as possible to expedite the review process and to ensure there is
space available on the program. The application deadline is March
15, 2011- A limited number of applications may be accepted following
the deadline but are subject to availability. To request an
application, click here.
What is the cost of the program and what does that include?
The tuition price will be based on current airfare pricing, and has
yet to be determined. Previous year's tuition was $4950.
This includes all room & board, classes, field
trips, program activities, and airfare to Ireland from our gateway
airport, Newark Liberty. Students are responsible for costs
associated with travel to/from our gateway airport. Students will
also have expenses in Ireland for souvenirs, any activities or meals
outside the program, and general "walking around" money. Costs vary
year to year (although not much) depending upon the current currency
exchange rate and other program costs.
Is my child eligible for the program?
Students currently enrolled in high school and between the ages of
14-18 are eligible for the program.
Are there scholarships and financial
assistance available?
Organizations have a limited amount of financial aid available
each year that is distributed based on need. Students accepted into
the program may request a financial aid application. Scholarships
are available from partner organizations. For more information,
click here.
Where will the students live?
Students "home base" will be Donegal Adventure Centre. While
traveling through Ireland, they will be staying at local hotels.
What kind of classes will students take?
Students will take classes in Irish history, literature, Irish
language, drama, traditional dance, Irish studies, and Irish
American history. Classes are lead by Irish secondary school
teachers who have a specially designed curriculum for the Irish Way.
Course topics will often be combined with field trips and city
excursions. The intent is to provide a fun and relaxed environment
for students to learn Irish culture. There will be some reading to
do, and students will work on a group research project that
culminates in a fun presentation at the end of the course. Students
will also participate in workshops including a Northern Ireland
informational session, Celtic art, Irish sports, tin whistle, St.
Brigid’s crosses, baking, and advanced Irish dancing.
Will students have access to worship services?
We will respond to the needs of the students and will make transportation available.
How are the students supervised?
Students are supervised by a staff consisting of certified Irish
teachers, IACI staff, and American counselors. The ratio of students
to staff is generally 10 to 1 or better. Students are monitored on
campus, given specific curfew hours, and a safety and behavior
policy is enforced.
Will students have access to laundry facilities?
Students will do laundry twice during the program.
Will students have access to the internet and email?
Students will have daily access to their own e-mail and the
internet. Incoming messages on the message board will be delivered
daily, and a daily bulletin will be posted in the diary.
What is the best way for students to carry/get money?
The IACI recommends a combination of a small amount of cash and
either travelers checks or a Visa or MasterCard gift/prepaid card
that is independent of a bank account and offers the safety and
protection of a credit card. Debit cards, also known as check cards,
linked to a checking account are also an option. Cards linked to
savings accounts generally do not work in Ireland. Please be sure to
check with your banking institution or merchant to be sure the
account allows for use in Ireland, cash withdrawal, and the ability
to add funds if necessary.
How much money do students typically spend while on the trip?
A rough estimate of $500.00 should be sufficient for the five weeks
but every student is different. Some will spend much more and some
will spend less - it is best to have a discussion regarding expenses
and budgeting. Students will need money for incidentals such as
snacks, postage, occasional transportation during their free time,
and souvenirs. Typical student souvenirs include Irish books,
magazines, CD’s, and T-shirts-all which can be close to double the
cost in the US, depending on the current exchange rate. A popular,
but more expensive souvenir or gift item is the hand knit Aran
sweater, which can cost from €80 to €100, depending on the design
and where it's purchased.
How will I reach my child if there is an emergency?
Parents will be provided emergency and routine contact information
for IACI staff. Students will have access to payphones
for non-emergency phone calls home.
Are there any special rules or policies I should know about?
Students must sign a Behavioral Contract in order to participate in
the Irish Way and these rules apply during the entire course of the
program. The Irish Way takes the safety and behavior of its students
very seriously. Violation of any rules could result in a telephone
call to parents, suspension from daily activities and/or expulsion
from the Irish Way Program.
Can my child visit with family while on the trip?
Students are allowed to visit family while on the Irish Way, as long
as it doesn’t interfere with classes, tours and planned activities.
Arrangements will be made should students extend their stay in
Ireland with family.
Other questions? Contact
us.
Don't think you can afford tuition?
Based on availability, the Irish American Cultural Institute and its partners offer financial assistance to qualified students. In addition, students have developed creative ways to raise funds for their participation in the program. To learn more, please click here
Interested in becoming a Counselor on the Irish Way Program?
Every year, the Irish Way program selects 2-3 exceptional candidates to be Irish Way Counselors on the program. In exchange for a free three-week trip to Ireland (room, board and travel expenses included), Irish Way Counselors assist the directors in running the program. Irish Way Counselors coordinate and run activities and monitor the students on the program.
Qualified candidates must be recent college graduates with an interest in Irish culture and youth programs. Preference is given to outstanding Irish Way alumni and to those who have a successful track record in recruiting for the Irish Way program. Candidates are vetted through an intensive screening process. For more information on becoming an Irish Way Counselor, click here