Teagascóirí Gaeilge / Irish Language Instructors
How can I contact ICUF with an enquiry?
The only way to contact the ICUF team is by sending an email to gaeilge@icuf.ie. We are unable to deal with telephone or postal enquiries.
What is the closing date for applications?
A completed online application form must be submitted and 2 references emailed to gaeilge@icuf.ie before the deadline outlined on the Teagascóirí Gaeilge page.
I am wondering if you have any guidelines / instructions for my two referees. Are they to be commenting on my character and abilities, my experience, the merit of my proposal?
There are no guidelines. It is left to referees to write what they think is best so as to advise ICUF on the applicant. We do ask that references be written in English as they will also be sent on to the universities in Canada.
Who is eligible to apply?
Anyone with fluency and a third level qualification in the Irish Language and a postgraduate level qualification in a relevant area (or soon expecting to qualify with same) is eligible to apply for the Irish Language Instructor award. Experience of teaching the Irish language, and any additional relevant qualifications will be of benefit. As successful applicants are required to apply for International Experience Canada (IEC) visas and these visas are issued to individuals between the ages of 18 and 35, applicants must therefore be between 18 and 35 years of age (inclusive) on 31st August 2022.
Can I choose which university I go to if I am chosen as an Irish Language Instructor?
There are various considerations to take on board when pairing successful applicants with our partner universities, and so applicants are not asked for their preferences at application stage. However, those applicants who progress to interview stage may choose to express preferences at the interview stage, and if successful at interview stage, the assessment panel and executive will take expressed preferences into consideration at that stage.
Is it possible to do a masters / attend classes as part of the award / position?
While it will not be possible to undertake full time study while working as a teaching assistant, successful candidates are encouraged to consider attending courses in an extra mural manner.
Will ICUF provide me with a visa as part of the award?
Successful applicants will be required to complete the application process for a work permit (visa) as soon as possible after they are selected (processing can take up to 12 weeks). Assistance will be provided and fees for the work permit application will be provided by ICUF.
Can I apply if I am from Northern Ireland?
Yes, you can apply. The term ‘Ireland’ refers to the entirety of the island of Ireland.
Irish Language Award for Canadian Scholars
Am I eligible for an award?
These award are made in conjunction with our partner universities, and with Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann / Oireachtas Gaeilge Cheanada. If you are attending one of our partner universties or are learning the language through Comhaltas / Oireachtas, you are eligible.
How are scholars selected?
Scholars are selected (a) by our partner Universities with the assistance and guidance of our Irish Language Instructors, and (b) in conjuction with the administrative teams in Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann / Oireachtas Gaeilge Cheanada.