Page 4 - Ed Guide 15 July 2021

A. OVERVIEW OF THE IRISH EDUCATION SYSTEM
This booklet primarily focuses on education for people over the age of 18 – generally called further education, higher education or third level education.
The government provide for preschool, primary and secondary education. English Language classes are also provided - English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL).
If you are looking for information regarding preschool education (children age 3-5), primary education (children age 4-12) or secondary education (children age 12-18) – the following links might be helpful.
• Department of Education : Irish Education System
• Department of Education : A Guide for Parents
• Department of Education : Early Childhood / Pre-school
• Citizens Information : Overview of the Irish Education System
• Citizens Information : Early Childhood Care and Education Scheme
1. What is NFQ?
(National Framework of Qualification in Ireland)
The National Framework of Qualifications in Ireland (NFQ) was established in 2003, since then all learning achievements and awards are measured and related to each other in a coherent way. It is important to understand this because progression from one level to the next is very important when it comes to looking for state funding.
• Most education courses in Ireland are identified as Level 1 – 10 (see diagram on the next page)
• For example, at the end of secondary school, students (typically age 18) complete their Leaving
Certificate (level 5)
• An Undergraduate Degree is level 7 or 8 (and lasts 3 or 4 years)
• A Postgraduate (Masters) Degree is level 9 (and lasts 1 or 2 years)
• A Doctorate (PhD) is level 10 (and generally takes 3 or 4 years to complete)
• Between the Leaving Cert (level 5) and Undergraduate Degree (level 8) there are many courses
at levels 5, 6 and 7. These are an excellent place to start your education journey in Ireland. If English is not your first language then Further Education will give you the vocabulary of your chosen study area before progressing to a degree. These one-year courses will also help you to integrate and understand the Irish education system better.
• Levels 5 and 6 are an excellent entry path to University instead of sitting the Leaving Certificate.
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All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. Please consult the relevant websites for accurate information