Ireland is highly regarded for the quality of its education opportunities, but until recently it has been a relatively well-kept secret when it comes to international student recruitment. However, since 2019 applications to Irish institutions from EU students alone have increased by 56%. And the numbers continue to grow.
The Ireland Education Agent Course (IEAC), created and developed by ICEF, is the first of its kind and supports professional development for agents who wish to specialise in Ireland as a study destination.
To ensure that agents have access to the most accurate and current information possible, this course was developed following extensive consultation with institutions and various stakeholders in Ireland, including organisations, associations, and government entities.
The Irish education system.
Study options and qualifications available in Ireland, at all levels.
Working most effectively with Irish institutions.
Helping students prepare for living and studying in Ireland.
Guiding students to their ideal Irish study experience.
Education agents who wish to further their professional development and focus on Ireland as a study destination should take the IEAC. It will enable them to understand student recruitment opportunities within the Ireland education market, and discover how to work with stakeholders and institutions in Ireland.
An official qualification is available to all candidates who complete the course and pass the IEAC exam. Successful graduates will receive a qualification badge with a unique ID number and a certificate confirming them as an Ireland Course Graduate (ICG), with the recognition of being an ICEF-qualified Ireland consultant for the international education industry. Graduates are also entered in the Qualified Education Agents (QEA) network, containing the names and company contact details of more than 16,000 qualified agents worldwide. ICEF-trained agents are sought after by education institutions worldwide.