Terms & Conditions

At Erin College, our English language programs are thoughtfully designed to provide a dynamic and immersive learning experience. Please review the following details regarding the structure of our English language courses:

3.1. Course Descriptions:
– Our English programs cater to learners of varying proficiency levels, from beginners to advanced and IELTS preparation. Courses are structured to enhance your language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. They are mapped against ‘can-do’ statements from the Common European Framework of Languages (CEFR).
– Each course is led by experienced and qualified instructors, dedicated to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment.

3.2. Curriculum Details:
– The curriculum is comprehensive, covering a range of topics to ensure a well-rounded language education. Emphasis is placed on real-life communication skills, cultural understanding, and practical language use.
– You will have the opportunity to participate in interactive activities, group projects, and afterclass activities to reinforce your learning.

3.3. Class Schedule and Duration:
– Classes are held from Monday to Friday, offering flexibility to accommodate different periods, class period changes may incur additional charges and are subject to availability.
– Two daily periods are available for your convenience:
○ Morning Session: 9:00 AM to 12:15 PM (Monday to Friday)
○ Afternoon Session: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Monday to Thursday)
– Any student who is late for class or who leaves early will not receive attendance for that day. Students can be up to 15 minutes late or leave 15 minutes early only in an emergency. Attending work and bus delays are not considered an emergency, and students who are late on a regular basis will not receive attendance for those days.

Choosing the right accommodation is a crucial aspect of your stay in Cork. Erin College is committed to providing a comfortable and supportive living environment for our students. Please review the following enhanced details regarding accommodation:

5.1. Accommodation Terms and Conditions:
– Erin College offers various accommodation options, including on-campus residences and partnerships with local housing providers.
– The accommodation dates stipulated at the time of booking must align with the student’s arrival and departure dates in the city. If these dates do not coincide, it is the student’s responsibility to secure additional accommodation, which is not included in the cost and depends on availability.
– An extra accommodation fee will be applied if the student arrives 12 months after making the full payment.
– Please note that the availability of additional accommodation outside of the stipulated dates is subject to availability, and Erin College does not assume responsibility for securing such accommodation.

5.2. Accommodation Changes and Cancellations:
– Accommodation cancellation applications must be provided in writing at least forty-five (45) days in advance of the agreed starting date.
– Please note that Administration Fees will not be refunded.
– If accommodation cancellations are made after the student’s starting date, the College will not be held responsible, and the student is not entitled to claim a refund.
– The same policy applies if the student needs to shorten their stay – payment is non-refundable.
– No-shows, failure to arrive, or postponement incur charges in full from the booking date.

Arriving in a new country can be exciting and challenging. Erin College offers airport pick-up services to ensure a smooth transition to Cork. Please carefully review the following details regarding airport pick-up:

6.1. Details on Airport Pick-Up Services:
– Airport pick-up must be ordered when the student selects their course options before arriving in Ireland.
– To facilitate a timely and efficient service, the student must notify Erin College if their flight is delayed at least three hours prior to the scheduled arrival. This notification should be made via email or telephone (contact numbers are provided upon making a booking).

6.2. Delayed/Missed Flights:
– In the event that the student does not provide information about delayed or missed flights on time, Erin College will not be held responsible, and the student is not entitled to claim a refund.

6.3. Non-Transferable Services:
– Accommodation, airport pick-up, or any additional services are non-transferable if cancelled or postponed.
– Changes to these services will be subject to the policies outlined in the respective sections, and the student is encouraged to review the terms and conditions before making any adjustments

Your well-being is of utmost importance to us, and Erin College includes health insurance as part of the course fees to ensure that you have comprehensive coverage during your study period. Please review the following details regarding health insurance:

7.1. Inclusion in Course Fees:
– The student acknowledges and accepts that health insurance is included in the course fees and agrees to pay this amount as part of their enrollment.
– This health insurance coverage is designed to protect you throughout the entire study period.

7.2. Deduction from Refund:
– In the event of any applicable refund, the student accepts that the amount of the insurance fee will be deducted from the refund.
– This policy ensures that the student maintains continuous health insurance coverage for the duration of their study at Erin College.

Ensuring the security and protection of our students is a top priority at Erin College. Please take note of the following information regarding Learner Protection:

8.1. Compulsory Nature:
– Learner Protection Insurance is mandatory for all students studying in Ireland.
– This requirement is in accordance with legislation governing English language schools that admit non-EU students in Ireland.

8.2. Legal Compliance:
– Erin College strictly adheres to the legal provisions that necessitate the purchase of Learner Protection Insurance by every student.
– This insurance is designed to safeguard the financial interests of students and ensures that appropriate measures are in place to protect their investment in education.

At Erin College, we prioritize transparency and want to ensure that you are aware of our policies regarding liability. Please carefully review the following information:

9.1. Force Majeure:
– Erin College accepts no liability in the event that any service contracted by the student becomes impossible to supply due to reasons beyond our control, including but not limited to industrial disputes or other causes classified as force majeure.

9.2. Statutory Liability:
– Erin College will not be held liable for any loss, damage, or injury to persons or property, except where liability is expressly imposed beyond exclusion by statute.
– This policy applies to situations where the liability is not otherwise expressly required by law and falls within the scope of permissible exclusions.

Understanding the payment terms is essential for a seamless experience during your studies at Erin College. Please carefully review the following details regarding payment:

10.1. Reservation of Courses:
– Courses will only be reserved after the full payment for your course is received.
– Please note that course fees do not include registration or exam fees.

10.2. Instalment Payment Method:
– If the student applies for an instalment payment method and it is approved, the student must pay the entire agreed amount before arrival. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the service.

10.3. Contractual Agreement:
– By accepting an offer and making the relevant payment, the student enters into a contract with Erin College for the period stated on the enrolment letter, covering the “Course Commencement date” through the “Course Completion date.”

10.4. Agreement with Terms and Conditions:
– The student is responsible for fully reading the course quotation and confirming approval.
– Upon signing the registration form, it is understood that the student fully agrees with Erin College’s terms and conditions, as well as the terms and conditions of third-party services.

10.5. Course Start within 12 Months:
– The student must start their class within 12 months after making the full payment.

10.6. Timetable Changes:
– Student timetables may change throughout the year due to unforeseen circumstances. While every effort will be made to avoid such changes, Erin College cannot be held liable, and no compensation or refund will be provided.

10.7. Class Period Changes:
– Erin College cannot guarantee that students will study either in the morning or afternoon unless agreed upon in advance. Class period changes may incur extra fees and are subject to availability.

10.8. Suspension or Expulsion:
– Erin College reserves the right to suspend or expel any student for non-compliance with requirements or disruptive behaviour. No refund of fees will be given in such instances.

Attending College is very important. If you have a student visa, you must come to College every day to achieve an attendance record of 85% or higher. This can only be achieved by missing no more than 18 days throughout the course of 25 weeks. Attendance records will not be altered in any way, and the Director of Studies will deal with all attendance appeals. Student sick leave can only be approved with a medical certificate. Please advise the College if you are unable to come to class on time and send the medical certificate (via email at info@erincollege.com).

No attendance records can be amended once the course has finished.

Class timetables are from 9:00 am to 12:15 pm in the morning and 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm in the afternoon.
Any student who is late for class or who leaves early will not receive attendance for that day. Students can be up to 15 minutes late or leave 15 minutes early only in an emergency. Attending work and bus delays are not considered an emergency, and students who are late on a regular basis will not receive attendance for those days.

If a student’s attendance drops below 75% or misses three or more classes in a week, they will receive a warning letter and be reported to the GNIB (Garda National Immigration Bureau).
After three warning letters have been received, students will be expelled from College and reported to immigration. Students may appeal this decision in writing within five working days. The appeal will take the form of a meeting with the Director of Studies. Students may bring a witness and/or translator to the
appeal meeting. The result of the appeal will be communicated to the student within five working days and is final.

European students and others not on student visas are also expected to attend fully, even though they are not bound by GNIB rules, and may be removed from the list or expelled for non-attendance. All students of Erin College are treated alike. Non-attendance and lateness are disruptive to the class and to the learning
process.

Please be aware that Erin College takes attendance very seriously and that any attempt to falsify attendance
by submitting a false medical certificate, for example, may result in immediate expulsion from the College.

Students are expected to willingly and actively take part in any and all classroom activities, speak English at all times, and to respect their teacher and classmates. Students who do not comply with these rules may be asked to leave the classroom with a loss of attendance for that day of the class. Any student found to be
tampering with the attendance list for their own benefit or the benefit of any other student may be expelled without prior warning.

No member of staff may accept or request money or gifts in exchange for falsifying attendance. Any such request should be reported to the management immediately.

It is forbidden for students to film or take pictures during class without the permission of the teacher and their fellow students.

Any student whose name is not on the attendance list must go to the Reception office immediately and may not sign the list. Adding names by hand to attendance lists is prohibited.

At Erin College, we prioritize the security and integrity of our student identity verification processes. Please review the following information regarding the collection and use of your biometric data:

13.1. Consent to Collection:
– Erin College will collect and store your biometric data, and this data will never be shared with a third party except as required by law.
– By signing this consent, you agree to the collection and use of your data as outlined below.

13.2. What is Biometric Data?
– Biometric data includes information related to your unique physical characteristics, such as fingerprints, voiceprints, hand scans, facial geometry, and iris or retina recognition.

13.3. Types of Biometric Data Collected:
– Facial Biometrics: You are required to register with an image of your face for identity verification purposes.
– Fingerprint: You must register with an image of your fingerprint for identity verification.

13.4. Use of Biometric Data:
– Your biometric data is utilized to verify your identity during class attendance at Erin College.
– It is also used to calculate and maintain attendance in accordance with the guidelines of Irish immigration authorities.
– Data storage is solely for the purpose of verifying your attendance and supporting your student file for compliance with government departments and agencies responsible for visa compliance.

13.5. Security Measures:
– Your biometric data will be stored in leading encrypted form to ensure its safety and security.
– We will not share or transfer your data to any third parties except as specified in this policy.

13.6. Data Retention:
– Erin College retains your biometric data as long as you have an active course with us.
– After completing your course, we may retain your data for up to 12 months to comply with legal, contractual, fraud prevention, and policy obligations.
– You have the right to request the deletion of your biometric data after completing your course, and Erin College will process such requests promptly.

13.7. Access, Correction, or Deletion Requests:
– You can submit a request to access, correct, or delete your biometric data by contacting us at it@erincollege.com.
– We will respond to your request promptly within the time frame and in the form required by applicable law

Understanding the importance of course materials, Erin College has implemented a book policy to ensure a seamless learning experience. Please review the following guidelines:

14.1. Renting System:
– Erin College operates a book renting system.
– The price for the general English book is €50.

14.2. Physical Copy Requirement:
– Students must have a physical copy of the course book to attend class.
– No PDF copies or copies through any applications are allowed.

14.3. Book Change with Course Progression:
– As you progress through your course and change levels, your textbook will also change.
– Erin College will provide you with all the textbooks you need throughout your course for the initial fee.

14.4. Book Return Requirement:
– Books must be returned at the end of the course.
– Returned books must not be written in and in perfect condition.

14.5. Return Fee:
– A fee of €20 will be returned only if the book is in good condition.

To ensure a balanced learning experience, Erin College, in line with immigration policies, has established the following guidelines regarding holiday policies:

15.1. Eligibility:
– Visa students are eligible to take holidays after completing the first 8 weeks of their course.
– Students must have an 80% attendance record to be eligible for holidays.

15.2. Holiday Duration:
– After meeting the eligibility criteria, students can take up to ⅓ of the time they have already studied.
Example: After 9 weeks, students may have 3 weeks of vacation, and after 12 weeks, they may have 4 weeks.

15.3. Holiday Request:
– Holiday requests must be requested via the “Erin App” at least 5 days in advance.
– Holidays cannot be scheduled to start in the middle of a week; they must be scheduled from Monday to Friday.

15.4. Class/Campus Placement After holidays:
– Students returning from holidays may be placed in a different class or campus upon return, although every effort will be made to avoid it.

15.5. Appeal Process:
– If a holiday request is rejected, the student may appeal by emailing info.cork@erincollege.com and if the request is urgent, they can attach evidence as to why it is urgent.

15.6. Christmas Holidays:
– The holiday policy excludes Christmas holidays when the College closes for three weeks.

15.7. Full-Time Work Periods for Non-EU/EEA Students:
– Non-EU/EEA international students can work full-time (up to 40 hours per week) during two periods of the year:
○ Summer Break: 1st June – 30th September (4 months)
○ Winter Break: 15th December – 15th January (1 month)

Ensuring clarity on our academic calendar, Erin College observes the following policy regarding public holidays:

16.1. College Closure:
– The College is closed for all Irish Bank Holidays and Good Friday.

16.2. Impact on Courses:
– If your course coincides with a national holiday, you will not be entitled to any refunds or additional lessons.

Erin College is committed to supporting students in all aspects of their course.
To ensure continuous support and uninterrupted learning, Erin College has established the following guidelines in the event of a temporary college closure due to unforeseen circumstances or acts of nature such as disasters, conflicts, wars, epidemics, etc.:

17.1. Live Online Classes:
– Classes will be delivered through live online sessions during a temporary closure (which lasts more than 5 days).
– Students must follow the teacher’s instructions for a seamless learning experience.
– Erin College’s online classes facilitate dynamic interaction between teachers and students.
 Teachers may ask students to:
– Turn on their microphones or cameras for interaction.
– Answer questions displayed on the screen.
– Follow a digital board for examples, etc.

17.2. Prohibited Actions:
– Sharing personal data/log-ins with individuals not enrolled is strictly prohibited.
– Violating this policy may result in expulsion, and no refund of fees will be given.

17.3. No Refund Policy:
– In the event of a temporary college closure affecting partially or totally any service offered, no refund will apply.

To ensure a comprehensive evaluation of your language proficiency, Erin College follows these guidelines for exams and certificates:

18.1. Exam Requirement for Non-EU Students:
– Non-EU students enrolled in a 25-week program must sit a recognized English exam (TIE, IELTS, or Cambridge) by the completion of their course.
– The exam fee must be paid at the start of the course or, if not paid at booking, at the beginning of the course.

18.2. Visa Letters and Exam Payments:
– Visa letters for student visas will be issued only to non-EU students who have paid for their exams in full.
– All students are automatically booked for the TIE (Test of Interactive English) exam.
– Your teacher or the Director of Studies can guide you on the most suitable exam for your proficiency level.

18.3. Exam Preparation:
– Your classes are designed to prepare you for the exams.
– The College will assist you with exam bookings upon request, and attending the exam is your responsibility.

18.4. Exit Letter for Non-EU Students:
– Non-EU students on a 25-week program will receive an exit letter from Erin College only upon completing their end-of-course exam.
– Failure to complete a recognized end-of-course exam indicates non-completion of the English course, and no exit letter will be issued.

18.5. Erin College Certificates:
– Erin College certificates are awarded to students who meet the 85% attendance requirement and take the mandatory end-of-course exam.

At Erin College, we value your input and strive for continuous improvement. Your feedback is crucial in making our college the
best it can be. Here are the guidelines for providing feedback:

19.1. Importance of Feedback:
– It is essential for everyone at Erin College that we continuously enhance our services for the optimal experience of all students.

19.2. Feedback Meetings:
– You may be invited to attend feedback meetings during your time at Erin College to share your ideas on improvement.
– By signing this policy, you agree to attend any feedback meeting you are invited to.

19.3. Sharing Suggestions:
– You can also share your suggestions anonymously by completing one of the feedback forms available on our website
or scan the feedback form QR code located around the school and in classrooms.

At Erin College, we strive to provide you with the service you deserve; however, we understand that concerns may arise. Here’s
our procedure for addressing complaints:

20.1. Initial Concerns:
– If you have concerns about your class or studies, your teacher is available to advise you.

20.2. Course/College Concerns:
– If you are unhappy with your course or the College, please make an appointment to speak with a member of management by emailing info.cork@erincollege.com.

Emailing your complaint is important so that we have a record of the complaint and so we can direct the issue to the right department. We will reply to complaint emails within 48 hours.

20.3. Additional Information:
– For more details on our complaints procedure, please refer to our Complaints policy.
– The policy is accessible on the College website, notice boards within the College, or at the reception

At Erin College, we embrace diversity and respect the varied perspectives that different cultures and individuals bring to the classroom. To maintain a positive and inclusive learning environment, we have established the following guidelines for classroom behaviour:

21.1. Acceptance of Diverse Views:
– Recognizing the diversity of cultures and people, it is important to accept that each student may hold different views.

21.2. Zero Tolerance for Disruptive Behaviour:
– Loud and threatening behaviour will not be tolerated.
– Consistent disruptive behaviour will result in a warning, followed by a letter of warning if behaviour does not improve.
– If behaviour persists, Erin College reserves the right to expel the student from the College.

21.3. Compliance with Teacher Instructions:
– If a teacher requests a student to be quiet or leave the room due to disruptive behaviour, immediate compliance is expected.
– The student should then speak to the Director of Studies or Assistant Director of Studies.

21.4. Reporting Abusive Behaviour:
– Students displaying abusive behaviour will be reported to Garda.

21.5. Photography and Filming Prohibition:
– It is strictly forbidden for students to film or take pictures during class without the explicit permission of the teacher.

By signing this form, you are acknowledging and granting Erin College the full rights to use images resulting from photography or video filming. This includes any reproductions or adaptations of the images for the following purposes:

22.1. Business Aims:
– Fundraising efforts.
– Publicity campaigns.
– Other purposes aligned with business goals.

22.2. Usage Scenarios (but not limited to):
– Printed publicity.
-Online publicity.
– Social media platforms.
– Press releases.
– Funding applications.

At Erin College, we highly value and respect your right to privacy. In accordance with our obligations under the EU General Data Protection Regulation ((EU) 2016/679) (“GDPR”), we have formulated a comprehensive Privacy Statement outlining our commitment to protecting your personal information.

23.1. Accessing our Privacy Statement:
– To review our detailed Privacy Statement, please visit our website: Erin College Privacy Statement via https://erin.onhead.com.br/policies/privacy-statement/

At Erin College, we understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, leading to the need for cancellation or a refund. Please review our Cancellation & Refund Policy for comprehensive details:

24.1. Grounds for Refund or Partial Refund:
– Irish Study Visa Extension Refusal: If a student is unsuccessful in obtaining a visa extension, a refund or partial refund may be considered.
– Illness or Disability: In cases of illness or disability post-enrolment, a doctor’s certificate would be required for consideration.
– Refusal of Entry into Ireland: If a student is denied access to Ireland upon arrival, a refund request may be submitted.

24.2. Refund Application Process:
– All refund requests must be made in writing.
– Accompanying documentation, such as rejection letters from GNIB and a stamped passport, must be provided.
– Original letters issued by the College and the student’s GNIB card must be returned before considering any refund.

24.3. Additional Considerations:
– No automatic right to a refund exists if a student decides to change their mind about studying at Erin College.
– Refunds will only be granted for fees paid for the most recent year in which the specified grounds for refund occur.
– Minimum 85% attendance is required for refund requests after course commencement.
– No refund will be given if a student withdraws after course commencement.
– For medical cases and course extension.

24.4. Deductions from Refunds:
– Administration fee of €300, plus €150 for health insurance (if applied) and €150 for learner protection (if applied) for long-term courses.
– For short-term courses (1 to 12 weeks), an administration fee of 25% of the course fee, plus health insurance and learner protection fees (if applied), will be deducted.
– In cases of extension and medical requests, if the student has already started the course: the value of the book will be deducted if there is one in the package and the number of weeks studied by the student.

24.5. Additional Points:
– Refunds for visa refusal or entry denial, less handling charges, will be processed within 20 working days.
– Missed or delayed flights may not be refunded if not notified in advance.
– No refunds for voluntarily giving up or stopping accommodation during the booked period.
– Refund for accommodation will only be possible if the student requests cancellation 45 days before checking.

24.6. Refund Request Submission:
– If applicable, your sales agent must submit refund requests and they can fill out the Refund Form.
– The refund period is from 6 to 10 weeks.

24.7. Calculation is:
– Total Payment – (€300 ADM Fee + €150 Health Insurance + €150 Learner Protection + (General English Course / 25 weeks – X weeks in class))

At Erin College, we are committed to maintaining transparency and complying with legal obligations. Our Change Policy is outlined below:

25.1. Policy Amendments:
– We reserve the right to change or modify this Policy as necessary to comply with legal obligations.
– Any changes or modifications will be communicated to students through publication on our official website and via email.

25.2. Student Responsibility:
– It is the responsibility of each student to regularly review and understand the Terms & Conditions outlined in this document.
– Acceptance of these terms will be confirmed by signing the document, indicating acknowledgement, acceptance, and commitment to abide by the governing conditions.
– Failure to sign this contract will result in automatic disregard of the registration.