Dublin, Ireland

Direct Enrollment - National Theatre School of Ireland-Gaiety School of Acting

Study Abroad

Program Options:

Direct Enrollment

•

Length:

Fall

At a Glance

Program Dates:

Fall 2026: August 31 - December 12

Credits:

19 per Semester

Estimated Cost:

$21,981

Visa Required:

Maybe

Housing:

Residence Hall

Language of Instruction:

English

Language Prerequisites:

None

About the Program

Designed for theatre students seeking an intensive, practical approach to performance, this fall study abroad program at the National Theatre School of Ireland's Gaiety School of Acting (NTSI (GSA)) lets you participate with other Irish and international students. This program is physically and emotionally demanding, and students participate fully in all aspects of the training process. If you are ready for the rewarding challenge of adapting to an entirely new academic culture that requires significant independent work, this fall study abroad acting program is for you!

Walk in the Footsteps of the Greats

Famous alums and supporters include Liam Neeson and Olivia Wilde.

Build a Team

Work with a team of local and international students to hone your skills.

Participate in the Vibrant Local Theater Scene

You'll have the opportunity to engage with Dublin's Theatre Festival.

Explore the Neighborhoods

Walk along the River Liffey and meander through the city.

Program Advisor

Macey Schondel

Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!

📱 800.995.2300 ✉️ study@IESabroad.org

At a Glance

Program Dates:

Fall 2026: August 31 - December 12

Credits:

19 per Semester

Estimated Cost:

$21,981

Visa Required:

Maybe

Housing:

Residence Hall

Language of Instruction:

English

Language Prerequisites:

None

About the Destination

a street in Temple Bar lined with green and orange flags

Why Dublin in the Fall?

You won’t need the luck of the Irish to have an unforgettable study abroad experience in Dublin in the fall. By directly enrolling in a local university for the fall term, you have the opportunity to become a part of Dublin’s large student community (more than half of the city is under 25 years old). Plus you'll have the opportunity to engage with Dublin's Theatre Festival and integrate your coursework with the Fringe Festival!

Learn More About Dublin

Get to Know Your New City

Take a Day Trip

Explore and hike along the coast just a short train ride from the city.

Catch a Live Performance

Venture to the theatre, or enjoy live music at your local pub.

Taste the Local Food

Walk along the River Liffey and meander through the city.

Visit the Book of Kells

Walk the same streets as authors James Joyce and William Butler Yeats.

The Student Experience

The view of Edinburgh Castle from a street below

Hayley Clark

Hayley Clark, Jun 17, 2026

My First Time Solo Traveling Abroad: Dos and Don'ts from my Experience

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Field Trip/Travel

The view of St. Patrick's Cathedral from St. Patrick's Park in Dublin

Getting to Know Your Study Abroad City

The nighttime cityscape of Chicago from a plane window.

How to Choose Your Study Abroad Program

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Program Dates

Fall 2026

Program Dates:

August 31 - December 12

Application Deadline:

Mar 26, 2026

Academics

Partner Institution

Students dressed in black pose to express emotions like confusion, happiness, worry, and sadness.

The National Theatre School of Ireland-Gaiety School of Acting

The National Theatre School of Ireland (Gaiety School of Acting) is Dublin’s premier acting school. The policy of NTSI (GSA) is to train you for the theatre, film, and television industries by providing you with conservatory-like professional training taught by dedicated GSA Faculty and local instructors who hold impressive credentials. Joseph Dowling, the internationally recognized Theatre Director, founded the school in 1986.

Watch a short clip of IES Abroad Dublin students sharing what they love about attending NTSI (GSA).

The NTSI (GSA) operates out of the renovated 17th-century Smock Alley Theatre. The theatre is located in the heart of Temple Bar, the city’s arts and entertainment district. The area’s rejuvenation in the 1980s preserved the narrow cobbled streets and historic storefronts for galleries, small theatres, and centers for applied arts, photography, and film.

Visit Website

Courses

This is a fully integrated program, and students participate with local students. The fall semester begins with a three-week intensive IES Abroad theatre course (TH352 Soundings from the Fringes, 3 credits) that combines performance workshops with the critical study of plays, and integrates your classroom work with Dublin’s annual Fringe Festival in September. Courses at the NTSI (GSA) then begin when the IES Abroad course ends in early October. The NTSI (GSA) courses conclude in mid-December.

NOTE: This is a list of planned course offerings. After you are accepted, you will see a list of final course offerings in your MyIESabroad account. Additionally, IES Abroad reserves the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or circumstances beyond our control.

Helpful Links

two students stand arm-in-arm in front of lagoons in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

Transcripts, Credit Transfer & Accreditation

Two students jump for a fun photo in front of Neue Burg in Vienna

Refund Policy

See All Student Policies

IES Abroad Courses

Theatre Arts (1)

Course name	Term	Language	Credits
TH 352 - Soundings From the Fringes	Fall	English	3

Partner Institution Courses

National Theater School of Ireland, Gaiety School of Acting

The following courses are offered at NTSI (GSA):

Theatre History, Text Analysis, Stagecraft, and Theatre Visits (4 credits) - This course includes a research project to be presented in class.
Voice (4 credits) - Concentrate on boosting awareness of habits that are hampering the free and full expression of your voice.
Acting (4 credits) - Performance techniques are developed both as an individual and as part of an ensemble through the exploration of characterization and text, utilizing the emotions, imagination, and physical skills of the student.
Movement (4 credits) - This course introduces core training in physical movement skills, enabling you to gain flexibility, strength, and coordination.

Visit Website

Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

18 years of age
In good standing at your home school
2.75 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 2.75 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
Applicants must be a major or minor in Theater Arts/Drama or have EXTENSIVE theater experience

Submit Your Online Application

Applications may be considered after the published deadline on a space available basis. Please note that late applicants may be required to submit a non-refundable confirmation deposit upon acceptance in order to secure a place in the program. Please contact us with questions about applying after the deadline.

After your Online Application is processed, submit the following in your MyIESabroad account:

Home School Authorization — Your on-campus study abroad advisor can either complete the Home School Authorization electronically through IES Abroad’s PartnerPortal system, or by filling out the PDF form. Consult your study abroad advisor to determine how they would prefer to complete your Home School Authorization.
Official Transcript(s) — Submit transcripts from each college/university you have attended since high school. If you have multiple transcripts, IES Abroad will average the GPAs for all colleges/universities you have attended and use that cumulative GPA when reviewing your application. (Students attending higher education institutions outside of the U.S. must obtain a professional course-by-course transcript equivalency report. You may choose any organization that provides professional international transcript equivalencies.)
Curriculum Vitae  — List your performance history and special skills.  See guidelines here:  GSA CV Guidelines
Digital Headshot Photo
Personal Statement  — Detail reasons for choosing this program, academic achievements, performance history, special skills, and aspirations upon completion of the program.
Audition Video  — This should include a 30 second introduction of yourself and the two pieces you will perform, followed by two contrasting monologues (each monologue no longer than two minutes). Upload your audition video to YouTube.
Zoom Information  — You are required to have a Zoom login in order for the GSA to schedule a virtual interview. 
(If Applicable) English Language Proficiency Exam — Students attending higher education institutions outside of the U.S. may need to submit English language proficiency exam results. Contact your IES Abroad Representative for more information.

If your cumulative GPA is below 2.75, submit the following in your MyIESabroad account:

Professor Recommendation — Although there is no length requirement, the recommendation must indicate a professor’s opinion of the applicant’s academic ability to pursue university-level coursework in a foreign country, in addition to any information that would help IES Abroad gain a better understanding of the applicant.
Personal Academic Essay — Although there is no length requirement, the essay must address your GPA, any particular academic challenges faced, reasons you chose this IES Abroad program, and how it fits into your academic career.

Apply Now

Passport & Visa Requirements

Renew (or Apply for!) Your Passport ASAP

Passport applications and renewals are taking longer than normal these days. Save yourself from the last-minute stress by making sure:

You have a passport
The expiration date is at least six months after your study abroad program ends

Visit  travel.state.gov  to locate U.S. passport agencies in your area.

Visa Requirements

Ireland does not require U.S. citizens to obtain a student visa before studying abroad for a semester or longer.

Learn more about registering with Irish immigration.

Not a U.S. citizen? Consult the consulate website of your passport country and  contact your IES Abroad Advisor.

IES Abroad Dublin Staff

Megan Markey

IES Abroad Dublin Center Director

Read Full Bio

Julie Jennings

Customized Programs Manager

Mark Kelleher

Academic Programs Manager

Margaret Maj

Student Affairs Manager

Stephen McMahon

Head of Academic Programs

Andrea Mitchell

Internships & Engagement Manager

Mairéad White

Head of Operations

Housing

A clean apartment kitchen and living space, with sleek counters, dark cabinets, and modern appliances.

Residence Hall

You will live in a private student residence with up to seven other IES Abroad students each having your own bedroom and bathroom within the apartment. No meals are provided, but you'll share a fully equipped kitchen, plus a living area. Mixed-gender and single-gender apartments are available.

The private student residence is completely furnished and has Wi-Fi along with other amenities, including on-site laundry facilities and 24-hour reception and security. The residence hall is within walking distance or a short bus ride to the IES Abroad Center. Residents are invited to attend a range of social events such as mindfulness workshops, movie nights, volunteer days, and more.

Field Trips

Even though your adventure starts in Dublin, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).

NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability.

3 Days ($) Fall

Cork

Explore Cork — known for the world-renowned Blarney Stone, the bustling English Market, and for being the final port of call on The Titanic’s solitary voyage.

1 Day ($) Fall & Spring

Causey Farm

Visit an open farm where you will have the chance to try Irish dancing, bake traditional Irish bread, learn to play an Irish drum called the bodhrán, and jump in a bog.

Program Cost

Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your current college or university to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your school's policies, and other factors.

Fall 2026

Tuition

16,587

Housing

5,094

Insurance

300

Total

21,981

Fall 2026

Dublin Direct Enrollment - National Theatre School of Ireland - Gaiety School of Acting Fees

Program Fee (invoiced by IES Abroad)	Cost
Tuition	$16,587
Base Housing (& Meals, if applicable) plus one of the following supplemental fees below:	$5,094
• Option 1: Student Residence (no meals provided)	+$0
Health Insurance	$300
Total IES Abroad Program Fee (total dependent on housing option selected)	$21,981-$21,981

+

Fees for Special Options Associated with Tuition (invoiced by IES Abroad)	Cost
School of Record transcript (if required)	$475
Total Additional Fees

+

Additional Estimated Expenses for Student Budgeting Purposes (select those that apply; consulate fees may be subject to change)	Cost
Required Residence Permit Fees (paid on-site if required to register with Irish Naturalisation & Immigration Services)	$330
Round-Trip Airfare (varies with point of departure and carrier)	$500-1,000
Textbooks, Copyright Permission Fees, Course Packets & Other Course-Related Materials	$100
Estimated Groceries for Duration of Program (varies by the number of meals included per week) Students in certain housing options may require less groceries based on personal preferences and number of meals included in meal plans
• Option 1: Student Residence (no meals provided)	$1,510
Estimated Costs for Dining Out (based on one meal out per week) Students in certain housing options may require more meals out based on personal preferences and number of meals included in meal plans	$350
Rental or Purchase of Required Cell Phone (does not include usage fees)	$30-150
Local Transportation	$250
Optional IES Abroad Field Trips (not included in program fee)	$250
Personal Expenses (does not include personal student travel)	$1,800
Total Other Estimated Expenses

= Total Estimated Budget:

The amounts expressed above are in U.S. dollars
Estimated expenses are based on calculations and exchange rates at the time of printing
These expenses may vary due to individual needs, spending habits, and exchange rates, and are not included in the IES Abroad program fee
Estimated meal and grocery expenses are accessed from numbeo.com/cost-of-living/; costs of meals and groceries may vary based on your own spending habits
Personal expenses may include but are not limited to the following: additional meals/beverages (outside selected housing/meals option), taxis, social activities and entertainment, toiletries, and laundry
Some items such as textbooks may be billed separately by IES Abroad
The IES Abroad program fee does not include financial aid

Visa / Consular / Residency Fees

Depending on visa requirements related to certain program locations, length of term, and consular jurisdictions, students may also incur costs for expedited processing, predeparture travel to the consulate or for IES Abroad ACCeSS™ obtain their visa
These estimated fees apply to U.S. citizens. Non-U.S. citizens may have different requirements and costs

Cell Phone Usage

Cell phone usage fees are additional and on a per call basis, depending upon location

Program Dates:

August 31 - December 12

Application Deadline:

Mar 26, 2026

Estimated Cost:

21,981

Use Our Budget Worksheet to Calculate Your Costs

See the Worksheet

Orientation

Health & Safety

With 75 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in your program cost to highly trained local staff who can connect you with English-speaking healthcare providers, we work around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.

Support You Can Expect to Receive on Our Programs

CISI International Health Insurance

In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.

24/7 Emergency Support

Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.

Mandatory Cell Phone Policy

Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.

Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.

TripTracker System

Allowing you to share independent travel plans.

Crisis Drills

So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.

Helpful Links

Blogs on Mental Health

Study Abroad Safety Tips for Traveling

Blogs on Safety

Learn More About Health & Safety

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?

Students who wish to participate in an IES Abroad program will typically apply to both their college/university, as well as to IES Abroad. Start by visiting your school’s study abroad office website to learn more about their application process and deadlines. Note that some university’s deadlines can be as early as one year before your desired term abroad. After you have reviewed the process at your home school, start your online application on the IES Abroad website—there's no application fee! Once we create an account for you, we’ll then ask you to submit the required admissions forms in your MyIESabroad account. After we have received all of your materials, we will review your application and send you an admission decision via email.

I’ve never been abroad before. When should I apply for a passport?

As soon as you know you are interested in going abroad, begin applying for your passport. In order to go abroad, you’ll need to have a passport that is valid until at least six months after your program’s end date. For most of our programs, you will need your passport in-hand in order to apply for the required student visa. Rest assured, our IES Abroad Program Advisors will be available to help you every step of the way, but it’s in your best interest to start this process as soon as possible!

How do I know if I will receive credit for the classes or internships I complete abroad?

You can find a list of the potential courses and/or internship opportunities available for students to pursue under the Academics tab of your program page. Syllabi for each course can typically be found by clicking on the hyperlinked course title, which you can review with your on-campus advisors to ensure that you can earn credit and stay on track for graduation. If a part-time internship opportunity is available on your program and something you want to pursue, discuss the possibility of earning credit for this with your study abroad office on-campus.

How do scholarships and financial aid work? Can I use my existing scholarships or apply for more?

You can apply for our IES Abroad Scholarships at any point before the deadline—even if you haven’t yet been admitted into one of our programs! Our scholarship opportunities are competitive, so it’s in your best interest to apply for our scholarships as early as possible. If you’d like to use your existing scholarships/aid towards your program fees, this will depend on your school’s policies and how you’re billed for the program. Talk to your school’s study abroad and financial aid office to learn their policies.

How does IES Abroad work with my school?

IES Abroad works as a partner to campus study abroad offices around the world to provide high quality academic programs for undergraduate students. In order to participate in one of our programs, we require that you gain approval from your home school’s study abroad office. While IES Abroad is here to help with your predeparture needs, you’ll also want to stay connected with your study abroad advisor on-campus to ensure you’re staying on track with their deadlines and aware of their policies for your program abroad.

What is the university or location where I will take my classes abroad?

The location of your courses will depend on the type of IES Abroad program that you select. Most IES Abroad programs are based at the IES Abroad Center in the host city. Our Centers are physical spaces within the city where we have staff offices and classrooms and they serve as the student hub for many of our programs. On these programs, your classmates will be other IES Abroad students from U.S. campuses and are taught by local or international professors. In some cases, it may also be possible to take one or two courses at a local university and the rest at the IES Abroad Center. Alternatively, some IES Abroad programs are direct enrollment programs, which means that you will take all of your classes at the local university alongside other students enrolled at that university.

What are IES Abroad’s health and safety resources and policies?

IES Abroad places student health & safety at the forefront of all that we do. All IES Abroad students are required to be insured under our mandatory CISI health insurance policy, and this cost is factored into your program fees. Students will be expected to complete a physical within the six months prior to your departure so that our student affairs staff on-site have up-to-date information and can offer support for any health or medical needs you may have while abroad. Mental health services may be available for students upon request. Please discuss any specific health and safety needs with our Dean of Students’ office as early as possible. You can also read more information about our Health & Safety protocols (including COVID-19).

Do I have to find my own housing on my IES Abroad program?

Our experienced housing coordinators work hard to screen and place students in IES Abroad housing, so you won’t need to find your housing on your own. Options can include homestays (highly rated!), residence halls, or apartments depending on your location. You will be given an opportunity to indicate any preferences you may have for housing once you are admitted into the program, which our staff will take into consideration to the best of their ability as they are making arrangements for students. While it’s not recommended, it is possible for you to arrange your own housing abroad if your home school approves you to do so.