When can my child start school?
Pick your child's birth month and year. We'll show which Septembers they could start junior infants and when you can apply.
Starting school: the basics
- What age do children start primary school in Ireland?
- Children can start junior infants from age 4, and must be in school (or registered for education at home) from age 6. Most start in the September after they turn 4 or 5.
- Is there a cut-off date for starting junior infants?
- Each school sets its own minimum age in its admission policy. Many ask that children are 4 by the start of the school year. If your child's birthday is close to September, read the policy for each school you're considering.
- When can I apply for a junior infants place?
- Schools can't take applications before 1 October of the year before your child would start. Each school publishes an admission notice with its own dates, so check the schools you like early in the autumn.
- Should my child start at 4 or 5?
- Both are common. Parents weigh things like how ready their child seems, how many free preschool (ECCE) years they've used, and whether older siblings are already in the school. Talk to your preschool too.
Getting ready? Read our guide to starting junior infants.