Our Accreditation

English Education Ireland

English Education Ireland is the leading and longest-serving association of English Language Schools in Ireland.

With origins dating back to the 1960s, quality and assurance have always been central to our mission. We represent English Language schools of all sizes, locations and varieties across the island of Ireland.

ACELS (Accreditation and Co-ordination of English Language Services)

ACELS is the quality assurance body for English Language Education in Ireland.

The Accreditation and Coordination of English Language Services (ACELS) is a legacy function of Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI). ACELS is currently the national body responsible for the development and management of an inspection/recognition scheme for English Language Education (ELE) providers nationally. All recognised providers are listed on the RECOGNISED PROVIDERS section of this website.

ACELS was established in 1969 under the auspices of the then Irish Department of Education and the aim was to manage and develop standards in ELE providers through an inspection/recognition scheme.

ILEP (Interim List of Eligible Programmes)

ILEP is the official list of English language programmes approved for international students requiring a visa to study in Ireland.

Managed by the Irish Department of Justice, ILEP ensures that schools meet strict standards related to academic quality, attendance monitoring, and student welfare.

Inclusion on the ILEP confirms that a school is recognised by the Irish government to provide legitimate, visa-eligible courses for non-EEA students.

TIE (Test of Interactive English)

TIE (Test of InteracTIE is an internationally recognised English language examination designed to assess the communicative and interactive skills of learners at all proficiency levels.

Tailored to meet the needs of students, professionals, and visa applicants, TIE focuses on real-world language use, encouraging research, interaction, and critical thinking.

TIE is officially recognised by the Irish Department of Education and is commonly used as proof of English proficiency for immigration and study purposes in Ireland.tive English)

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

IELTS is one of the world’s most trusted English language proficiency tests, used by over 11,000 organisations globally, including universities, employers, immigration authorities, and professional bodies.

Co-owned by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English, IELTS evaluates listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills with a strong focus on real-life communication.

It is a key requirement for international study, work, and migration — including for student visa applications in Ireland.

Cambridge Assessment International Education

Cambridge Assessment International Education is part of the University of Cambridge, offering internationally recognised academic programmes and qualifications designed primarily for learners aged 5 to 19, but open to students of all ages.

Through a strong focus on English language development, critical thinking, and global perspective, Cambridge International supports schools and students in building solid foundations for higher education and career success worldwide.

Their qualifications are recognised by thousands of institutions globally, including over 2,300 universities in more than 160 countries.