DCU offers Host Family-based Ministay programmes from September to April each year, providing students with a welcoming and immersive cultural experience alongside their English language programme. Students live with carefully selected local host families while participating in classes and activities on campus.
Students are typically placed in pairs or small groups with DCU-approved and police-vetted host families, and we make every effort to accommodate friend requests where possible. Special dietary requirements can be arranged, though a supplement may apply. Most host families are located within approximately 15–45 minutes of campus, in neighbourhoods such as Glasnevin, Drumcondra, Whitehall, Beaumont, Swords and surrounding areas. Students travel to DCU by walking or by a combination of public transport and a short walk, while group leaders can stay in single en-suite accommodation on campus.
Specification
Our group programme is customisable, but our usual provision is as follows:
- General English, Business English or ‘English for the Workplace Classes’.
- Learning Materials, Pre arrival online language assessment and end-of-course certificate included.
- DCU Host Family accommodation for students, 2 or 3 students from your group placed per Host Family. The Host Family will provide breakfast, packed lunch and dinner to students.
- DCU Residence accommodation for leaders, all ensuite, with full board meals from DCU.
- Return airport transfer by private shuttle, managed by DCU staff.
- Social activities, led by DCU staff.
- 24-hour DCU assistance telephone number available.
Other Information
- We can receive Ministay / PCTO groups to Host Families in the September to April periods each year.
- Any day arrival and departure are possible – we are flexible.
- Duration: minimum stay is 7 days and 6 nights. Above this duration is fine.
- Group sizes: from 10 students and above.
- We issue certification that meets ministay / PCTO requirements. We will assist leaders with paperwork requirements as needed.
- No evening activities are possible for policy reasons.
- Indicative programme timetable information is available later in this document.
Safety and Welfare
All programme services are delivered and managed by DCU. We operate a 24-hour assistance telephone service to assist students where they require help.
Provisions – What to Bring
Ireland uses Plug Type ‘G’ – please ensure to bring an adaptor so that you can charge your device. All linen and towels are included.
Hairdryers are not provided.
For European Groups Who Send Non-EU Passport Holders in Group
If there are any Non-EU students in your group, please visit:
www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-tostudy-in-ireland/travelling-as-part-of-a-schooltour/
These students may be eligible to enter Ireland without a visa, subject to the completion of requested documentation.
Travel to Ireland and Insurance
Airline options include Ryanair and Aer Lingus. The arrangement of flights is the responsibility of agents / group organisers. We also advise that agents / organisers purchase travel insurance.
Travel to DCU Campus from Dublin Airport
We will provide a private bus, with DCU staff to transfer your group from Dublin Airport to DCU and back. Travel time is 15 minutes approximately.
To Receive a Proposal / Quotation
Please contact us via our online enquiry form, stating:
- Desired period of attendance (including dates)
- Number of students and leaders, including approximate ages of students
- Any special requirements
Make an Enquiry / Request a Proposal
For further information, or to receive a proposal, please complete an enquiry form. We will reply to your enquiry within one business day, or less.
Sample Programme Timetable
Based on 7 Days and 6 Nights duration
