A Brief History of the North of Ireland

Check out our Blog for loads of great tips on adapting to life in Northern Ireland!

Do I need a visa?

Some short-term visitors will not need a visa. Please follow the UK immigration guidelines here: https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa

The British Council offers some additional information here: http://www.educationuk.org/global/articles/student-visas/

How do I get involved?

There are a number of ways in which students can get information about the program. If your school hosts a Study USA student, they will be a great wealth of information about life in Northern Ireland. Study USA host schools will also have information available through their study abroad office. You can also get in touch with ACCU, by emailing: intern4@accunet.org

What are the requirements?

Participating students should be in good academic standing with a minimum of a 3.2 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Applicants must also complete an application form and submit; An academic transcript through the most recent semester, A 500-word essay describing the student’s educational objectives while studying in Northern Ireland and two letters of reference—one from the student’s academic advisor and one from a faculty member or administrator at the applicant’s home institution.

How long will I be abroad for?

Participants can apply to study for one semester or one academic year. As places are limited, those who apply for a full year may be offered one semester. Placement in the spring semester is limited.

Will I be the only American Student?

This is very unlikely; often multiple Irish American Scholars will be placed in the same institution. Also many other study abroad students will be in attendance at universities in Northern Ireland.

What is the currency in Northern Ireland?

The British pound.

If students decide to travel south of the boarder in their free time the Euro is the currency in the south of Ireland.

Where do I fly into?

Participants must fly into a UK airport. Not Shannon or Dublin. This is due to immigration and visa controls. Belfast is serviced by two airports; Belfast Aldergrove and George Best Belfast City airport.

Where will I live?

There are many options for living arrangements for Irish American scholars. More detailed information can be found in our “Living at” section of the website.

What are classes like?

Classes in Northern Ireland are quite different to those in America. Class sizes are larger and students will generally have lectures followed by tutorials. There is a greater focus on essay based assessment in university in Northern Ireland. For more advice on getting the most out of lectures see our blog posts!