University of Limerick English Language Pathway Program

Language Pathway
Globally Recognized
Delivery Method:
In-Person
Duration:
Multi Term

About the Program

The University of Limerick was the first Irish university established after Ireland’s independence in 1922. Since then, it has striven to be at the forefront of knowledge, with award-winning faculty revered for contributions in their field and for innovation in teaching. On the outskirts of Ireland's third largest city, the university merges a rural lifestyle with vibrant urban adventures, setting you up for a memorable study abroad experience.

Irish students voted UL Ireland’s most popular university

The campus is ‌on 148 hectares of parkland along the River Shannon

International students represent a fifth of the campus community

Travel to the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, and the Ring of Kerry

At a Glance

Language of Instruction:
English
Language Prerequisite Level:
Intermediate
GPA Requirements:
2.90
Academic Level:
Undergraduate
Academic Strengths:
Design, Business, Economics & Finance, Education & Child Development, Engineering
Housing:
Homestay
Visa Required:
Maybe

Stay Healthy & Safe While You Study Abroad

WHAT STUDENTS SAY

Miharu Yanagishita

With such small class sizes, the teachers were able to support our textbook learning with lesson content tailored to each individual's assignments.

University of Limerick SAF Alumni

University of Limerick Content 01

About the University

University of Limerick

A young, vibrant institution, the University of Limerick was the first Irish university established after Ireland’s independence in 1922. Since then, it has striven to be at the forefront of knowledge, with award-winning faculty revered for contributions in their field or for innovation in teaching.

On the outskirts Ireland’s third largest city, the university merges a rural lifestyle with vibrant urban adventures. 

With a bustling Downtown, as well as the 800-year-old King John’s Castle and surrounding contemporary buildings, Limerick is home to the Munster rugby team, one of Europe’s top rugby teams. Thomond Park, the team’s stadium, also holds major concerts—think Elton John and Bruce Springsteen.

Learn more at University of Limerick's official website

Academics

University of Limerick's Academic Approach

You take General English courses to help to you:

  • Develop fluency by practicing spoken English
  • Understand how the language works
  • Develop all four language skills (speaking, listening, reading, and writing)
  • Increase your knowledge of Irish culture
  • Practice and improve your intercultural skills
  • Develop your ability to learn languages independently

Classes are small, with a maximum number of 15 students per course. This means you receive individualized attention as you continue to develop you English language abilities.

 

Courses

To progress to the academic program, you must satisfy the English language proficiency requirement by the university’s academic program application deadline. There are many language programs available to assist your with this endeavor. For some programs, passing the course will count as meeting the university’s English language proficiency requirements.

Classroom Hours

The SAF program fee tuition rate is based on enrollment in 20 hours of beginner to advanced language instruction (depending on your proficiency) per week.

Classes run from 9am to12:50pm, five days a week, and cover all four language skills:

  • Speaking
  • Listening
  • Reading
  • Writing

Get To Know Our Application Process

From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.

Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor

Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.

Application Requirements

When applying to study abroad, you must meet the entry requirements set by the host university—and SAF is here to set you up for success.

The requirements outlined in this section include the language proficiency scores you may need to demonstrate your language skills, a guide to the GPA range and other academic prerequisites required by your host university, and a list of documentation and other application materials you will need to finalize your application. You may need to supply additional information throughout the process, and you will be alerted through your emails and SAF Student Portal if this is the case for you.
  • Language Proficiency
  • Academics & GPA
  • Application Documents & Materials

Language Test Score Requirements

To prove your language proficiency, you can use any of the following:

  • CEFR: B2
  • IELTS: 5.5 (must reach 6.0 for entry to UL)
  • TOEFL CBT: 210
  • TOEFL iBT: 70
  • TOEFL PBT: 550

Learn More About Language Requirements

Program Dates

When studying abroad, you will want to consider the time of year and how long you are away. Most programs follow the host university's academic calendar.

The dates shown below are general estimates, and as you get closer to the start of the term, you will get more detailed information from SAF. If you have any questions, your Student Counsellor and Program Specialist are always here to support you and point you to the correct information.

Fall 2024 Language Pathway + Spring 2025 Academic

Program dates:
Early September - Mid May
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
24,530

Spring Quarter 2025 Language + Summer 2025 Language Pathway + Fall 2025 Academic

Program dates:
Late March - Mid December
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
27,730

Housing Information

University of Limerick Content 02

Homestay

While living in Limerick, you join a local family to immerse thoroughly in Irish culture and improve your intercultural and communication skills. The SAF program fee includes a comfortable and friendly homestay. 

*Housing is subject to availability. For specific questions regarding housing please contact SAF.

About Limerick

Europe Limerick Destination 03

Why Limerick

Ireland’s third largest city, Limerick blends a rural lifestyle with vibrant urban adventures. With a bustling downtown, as well as the 800-year-old King John’s Castle and surrounding contemporary buildings, Limerick is home to the Munster rugby team, one of Europe’s top rugby teams. Thomond Park, the team’s stadium, holds major concerts—think Elton John and Bruce Springsteen—and is famous for that iconic Irish craic.

Learn more about Limerick

The Student Experience

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Orientation

On Arrival

Your SAF pre-departure process will arm you with all the information you need for a smooth arrival to your new campus, city, and country.

To Housing

Your SAF program will include a safe transfer from your arrival airport to your new study abroad housing. We'll even provide you with top tips to make the most of your new city!

Home Sweet Home

Your SAF Program Specialist will coordinate with you to ensure you have arrived safely and settled into your new secure housing.

Keeping You Safe

As you settle in, you will learn about the SAF emergency alert system, our 24/7 phone support, and any safety concerns relevant to you.

Get Social

Your new university and SAF will arrange social and cultural events so that you can meet other study abroad and local students. Make the most of your adventure!

Advising and Support

The process of studying abroad could quickly feel overwhelming, but we have been doing this for decades and do everything we can to support you through it. 

Many SAF staff are alumni and have walked this path. They have real-life experience to draw on as they advise and support you through every step of our comprehensive services. They’re in your corner, taking care of all the details and explaining what you need to do next.

Take the first step in your study abroad journey by scheduling a consultation with your closest Student Counselor. You can discuss your for-credit academic courses and language programs and explore internships, research programs, and study tours. When you know what you want to do, we guide you through the pre-program steps, help you arrange your visa and transport, and finalize your accommodation or digital experience.

Get To Know Our Application Process

From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.

Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor

Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.

Commonly Asked Questions About Studying Abroad

Student Blogs

Fit

Staying Fit at DCU

Tips for staying all-around well while studying abroad at DCU.

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Why Travel With SAF?

Studying abroad is an unforgettable experience, one that stays with you in your career, your contacts, your future. It can define you. At any of our prestigious university partners, you can build personalized for-credit programs that can last up to a whole year.

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