What Families Fear Most: Surprise Costs

Planning a high school exchange abroad is exciting - but it can also be overwhelming. Flights, documents, school placements, accommodation… there’s a lot to think about. But one thing families shouldn’t have to worry about is hidden fees.

Unfortunately, it’s more common than you might expect. A programme may appear affordable at first glance, but once you add in costs for school uniforms, textbooks, special subjects, or even room upgrades, the total can grow fast.

At High Schools International (HSI), we do things differently.

What’s Always Included at HSI

We believe in full transparency and providing great value. That means everything your teenager needs for a successful, smooth start in Ireland is already included in our pricing.

Let’s break it down.

🛏️ Private Rooms in Host Families

Every HSI student stays in a carefully selected Irish host family - and every student has their own private bedroom. We don’t believe in shared rooms or bunking with strangers. Having personal space helps students settle in, feel safe, and unwind after school.

👕 School Uniforms

Irish schools typically require uniforms, and many providers expect families to purchase these on arrival. At HSI, we arrange uniforms in advance and include the cost in our programme fee. That means no surprise shopping trips or unexpected expenses.

📚 Textbooks

Academic materials like textbooks can be expensive - and some providers send extra invoices mid-year. We don’t. Essential schoolbooks are included in every placement, so your teen arrives ready to learn.

📘 Subject Choice

Some students have specific academic interests - maybe science, business, or the arts. With HSI, students can choose from the subjects available at their selected school, and there’s no extra cost for specific subjects. We do our best to align choices with both interest and academic goals.

🤝 Monthly Face-to-Face Check-ins

We pride ourselves on personal support. Each student is assigned a local coordinator who meets them every month, in person - not just online. This means your teen always has someone nearby to turn to if they need help, guidance, or just a friendly chat.

📝 Progress Reports for Parents

Parents don’t want to be left in the dark. That’s why we send regular updates throughout the year, covering academic performance, wellbeing, and social integration. It’s part of how we keep families involved and reassured - especially when their child is far from home.

Why Other Programmes Might Look Cheaper (But Aren’t)

Some providers promote low base prices but don’t mention the extras. Later, families may find they need to:

• Buy school uniforms separately

• Pay for access to textbooks or devices

• Pay extra for certain subjects or sports

• Cover airport transfers or materials

• Upgrade to a private room

  
  

These “hidden” costs can add thousands of euros to the overall budget - and create stress at the worst possible time.

At HSI, our pricing reflects the real cost of a high-quality, supportive programme. It’s honest, up-front, and designed to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Why Transparency Builds Trust

We know that for most families, this is more than just a financial investment - it’s an emotional one too. Sending a teenager abroad, sometimes for the first time, involves a huge amount of trust.

That’s why we work hard to earn and keep that trust. Our transparent pricing, regular communication, and consistent support are part of what sets us apart - and it’s why so many education partners and families come back to HSI year after year.

Summary

• HSI includes essential items like private rooms, school uniforms, and textbooks in the programme fee.

• Families can expect regular updates, personalised support, and subject flexibility without hidden costs.

• Transparent pricing ensures a smoother, less stressful experience for everyone involved.

• Real value isn’t about the lowest headline price - it’s about knowing you’ve made the right choice.

  
  

Ready to Learn More?

If you’re a parent, student, or education advisor looking for a trustworthy, all-inclusive high school experience in Ireland, we’d love to help. Reach out today to start the application process - or just ask us your questions.