Gap Year
Academic Programme

Combine English and academic preparation at Emerald Cultural Institute
with a Study Abroad semester at Maynooth University and earn ECTS credits.

About This Course

Combine a semester studying at Emerald Cultural Institute with a semester at one of Ireland’s leading universities: Maynooth University.

Choose university modules form 34 academic departments over 3 faculties, Including modules in Law, Business, History, Media, Engineering and Science.

Receive ECTS Credits for your semester abroad.

During the first semester at Emerald Cultural Institute students will improve their English for academic purposes and will acquire the English skills needed to successfully follow their Study Abroad Programme.

Students can choose one of two different programmes depending on the students starting level of English.

Please Note

Maynooth University application requirements: GPA 2.6; students below this must provide two references. A transcript and passport are also required.

Course Code

GAP1 & GAP2

Age Group

18+

Level Required

GAP1 Level - CEFR B2 and above
GAP2 Level - CEFR B1 and above

Tuition Hours

GAP2 Tuition - 20 hours General English + 6 hours electives per week
GAP1 Tuition - 20 hours General English + 6 hours EAP per week

Prices start at

€8,465 25 weeks · 26 hours per week

In this programme, you will be able to

Develop the English, academic and study skills needed to transition confidently from language study in Dublin to university-level study at Maynooth University.

Develop Academic English

Strengthen your English for academic purposes and build the language skills required to understand lectures, participate in classes and complete university-level work.

Build Essential Study Skills

Develop effective approaches to academic reading, writing, communication and independent study in preparation for your Study Abroad semester.

Prepare for University Study

Gain experience studying in an academic environment with mentoring, workshops and supervised study before progressing to Maynooth University.

Earn International Academic Experience

Study university modules in your chosen academic areas at Maynooth University and receive ECTS credits for your semester abroad.

Explore our Year-Round Facilities

Join a diverse, supportive learning community where language comes to life.

Other Courses That Match Your Goals

Academic Year Programme 2
General & Intensive English

Academic Year Programme 2

Make faster progress through a long-term English programme with 26 hours of weekly tuition, flexible course options…

  • Course Duration 25–35 weeks
  • Class Size Maximum 14, Average 9
  • Lessons per week 26 hours of group tuition per week
  • Lesson Format Group tuition
Intensive Course
General & Intensive English

Intensive Course

Improve your spoken and written English through learner-centred lessons designed to build confidence, accuracy and fluency.

  • Course Duration Minimum 1 week
  • Class Size Maximum 14, average 9
  • Lessons per week 20 × 60-minute group lessons per week
  • Lesson Format Group tuition
Academic Year Programme 3
General & Intensive English

Academic Year Programme 3

Combine 20-hour and 26-hour study weeks in a flexible long-term English programme, supported by an academic mentor…

  • Course Duration 25–35 weeks
  • Class Size Maximum 14, average 9
  • Lessons per week A combination of 20 and 26 hours of group tuition per week
  • Lesson Format Group tuition

Start your journey
with a programme designed for your goals.

Develop skills, make international friends, and enjoy immersive learning experiences.