Homestay accomodation at DCU

Ireland is among the kindest and most inviting nations for international students, making it ideal for staying with a host family. Study abroad students attending Dublin City University have the opportunity to live in homestays with locals who love meeting new people and supporting them in getting to know the region. Learn why this accommodation is excellent for your study abroad experience in the Emerald Isle.

What is a homestay like?

Throughout your stay, you will live as part of an Irish family. It's a great way to improve your English language skills outside the classroom while immersing yourself in Irish culture. Hosts are eager to welcome students from around the globe and treat them like family members throughout their stay, offering stability, warmth, and comfort. This is your chance to see life in Ireland in a more authentic manner than as a tourist or staying in a hotel. 

Some host families make it possible for friends to come to Ireland together and live together while taking classes at DCU. 

Homestay features

While every Irish house and family is unique, a few common characteristics exist. Every study abroad student will have:

• The host family provides breakfast and supper (Monday through Friday) as well as all weekend meals. DCU may arrange for a host family to accommodate your food restrictions or requests
• A single bedroom
• A study desk in the student's bedroom or at another place in the house
• Towels and bed linens
• Wi-Fi internet
• An average commute time of 50 to 60 minutes to campus

Getting around Dublin

With a vast network of lines that reach almost every corner of Dublin, Dublin Bus is by far the city's most popular mode of public transit. Students can buy a Leap Card, which has discounts on tickets and can be topped up online or at several stores. Dublin City is small and easy to navigate on foot; several landmarks, including castles, eateries, and stores, are all near each other. Walking is the way to go for students looking to get some exercise and see the city. 

The benefits of a homestay family

Staying on school campuses or in the city can be nice, but being able to live with a homestay family has its own benefits. These are just a few of the ways study-abroad students can benefit from this type of accommodation while in Dublin.

• Immersion in the local culture: Stay with a local family to learn about and participate in the everyday life of the locals
• It might be reassuring to stay with someone familiar with the area, which is excellent for lone travelers
• Living, dining, and communicating with a host family is a great way to practice English
• Get the support you need on a daily basis while also feeling cared for and welcomed as a member of the family
• Acquire local knowledge: Learn more about the area and how its people live their lives.
• Homestays are a great way to support local families since the money you pay goes straight to the family hosting you. This may greatly enhance their standard of living. 

For additional information about Dublin homestays, please make an appointment with a SAF counselor with any questions.