Living costs vary according to your accommodation choice, lifestyle, season, travel patterns and personal needs. The figures below are approximate weekly amounts to help you plan your budget. Check your Castleforbes quote, invoice and accommodation confirmation for the actual charges that apply to your booking. These figures do not include tuition fees or other course charges.
| Cost item | Indicative cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| College-arranged host family (half board) | Approx. €275 / week | Breakfast and evening meal included. |
| College-arranged student house (shared room) | Approx. €190 / week | Utilities may vary by property and season. |
| College-arranged purpose-built accommodation | Approx. €350 / week | Room type and location may affect the price. |
| Utilities and internet (if not included) | Approx. €15-€40 / week | Electricity, heating, refuse and internet. |
| Food and daily living | Approx. €60-€100 / week | Groceries, lunches, toiletries and routine household spending. |
| Local transport | Approx. €20-€40 / week | Depends on route, frequency and ticket or card used. |
| Mobile phone, laundry and personal spending | Approx. €15-€35 / week | Optional social spending is additional. |
Important: The three accommodation figures are alternatives - do not add them together. Food spending may be lower in a host family because breakfast and an evening meal are included. Add utilities and internet only where they are not already included.
One-off or variable expenses can include visa, immigration and registration charges; medical insurance; GP visits and prescriptions; bedding or kitchen items; and international travel. Any tuition, learner protection, insurance, examination, course materials, accommodation or airport transfer charges booked through the College are itemised separately on your quote and invoice.
For further independent information on accommodation, food, transport, start-up costs and budgeting, see the Irish Council for International Students (ICOS) cost-of-living guide:
www.internationalstudents.ie/info-and-advice/practical-information/cost-of-living
