The Open College Reviews 

129
•
TrustScore 4.5 out of 5

4.4

While we don't verify specific claims because reviewers' opinions are their own, we may label reviews as "Verified" when we can confirm a business interaction took place. Read more

To protect platform integrity, every review on our platform—verified or not—is screened by our 24/7 automated software. This technology is designed to identify and remove content that breaches our guidelines, including reviews that are not based on a genuine experience. We recognise we may not catch everything, and you can flag anything you think we may have missed. Read more

See what reviewers are saying

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

Hi, I like that all caregiver duties are clearly defined and detailed. But I was surprised by the course extension system, where the new deadline is calculated from the day the request is submitted. I... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I completed the Business Administration Course with Henry Sheahan as the tutor. Henry was a great help and gave excellent guidance throughout. All others I dealt with, associated with the Open College... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Did train the trainer online . Can’t say enough good things about this course . Especially my tutor Lorraine Walsh she was exceptional. Clear, helpful and brilliantly patient. At times the course seem... See more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I have done five ECCE (QQI Level 5) modules so far, and I have to say the tutor Lorraine Walsh (Communication module) was incredible. It doesn't even feel like an online course, because she's fabulous... See more

Company details

  1. Educational Institution
  2. also in
  3. Coaching Center

Information provided by various external sources

The Open College is Ireland's largest provider of Distance Learning Courses accredited by QQI. Open all year round, we deliver industry leading flexible part-time programmes and education choices utilising a variety of delivery methods that include Distance Learning, eLearning & Attendance Learning and provide these QQI courses at market leading prices with courses starting from only €229! We are fully accredited and approved to offer awards which are part of the Irish National Framework of Qualifications, which is overseen by the Irish Department of Education. The QQI qualifications you can achieve through The Open College are recognised by employers both nationally and internationally.


Contact info

4.4

Excellent

TrustScore 4.5 out of 5

129 reviews

5-star
4-star
3-star
2-star
1-star

No recent history of asking for reviews

This company hasn't invited customers recently, so reviews may not be representative

Replied to 100% of negative reviews

Typically replies within 1 week

How this company uses Trustpilot

See how their reviews and ratings are sourced, scored, and moderated.

4.4

All reviews

(129)

13 reviews in the last 12 months

Write a review
Companies on Trustpilot aren't allowed to offer incentives or pay to hide reviews. Reviews are the opinions of individual users and not of Trustpilot. Read more

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

extension

Hi, I like that all caregiver duties are clearly defined and detailed. But I was surprised by the course extension system, where the new deadline is calculated from the day the request is submitted. If my deadline was August 28th, I sent a request to extend the course deadline by 8 weeks, and got an approved notification until September 18th, so in reality, it was only extended by 3 weeks.

September 9, 2026
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Hi Virginija,

Thank you for taking the time to leave this feedback, and we're glad the course content itself has been useful to you.

You are right to be surprised by the extension, and we're sorry. Having looked into this further, the 2-week extension to 18th of September was applied in error by a member of our team - an 8-week paid extension should have been added to your original deadline, and that isn't how our extension system is meant to work. We appreciate you flagging it, as it has helped us tighten up how these requests are checked.

By way of apology, we are refunding the fee you paid for the 8-week extension in full. Your recent additional 24-week extension remains in place, so you have plenty of time to complete the course.

If there's anything else we can help with, please contact us directly at info@theopencollege.com / 01 2061828 and we will sort it straight away.

Kind regards,
The Open College Team

Advertisement
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I completed the Business Administration…

I completed the Business Administration Course with Henry Sheahan as the tutor. Henry was a great help and gave excellent guidance throughout. All others I dealt with, associated with the Open College, were also very helpful. Great communication and correspondence, and was never left waiting long on a response or answer to any questions or issues. Would recommend to anyone looking to further their studies, especially if they are currently working as you can log in at any time.

August 21, 2026
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Hello Brian,

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave this review. It is great to hear the QQI Business Administration course worked well for you. We will be sure to pass your kind words on to Henry, he will be delighted.

Glad the flexibility suited you too. Being able to fit study around work is exactly what our courses are designed for.

Best of luck with whatever you take on next, and thanks again for the recommendation.

From Everyone at The Open College

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Customer communication

They respond very quickly

August 3, 2026
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Dear Itumeleng,

Thank you so much for the lovely five star review! We are delighted to hear our communication and quick responses have made a positive difference. Supporting our students is at the heart of what we do, and feedback like yours means a great deal to the team. Wishing you every success with your studies.

With Kind regards,
The Open College Team

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Business Administration level 5 Open College …

My tutor Henry Sheahan was so helpful in this course. So glad I did it. Would recommend Open College Business Administration level 5 online

June 15, 2026
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Dear Cullen,

Thank you for the wonderful review! We're so pleased you enjoyed the Business Administration Level 5 course and found Henry's support so helpful. We will be sure to pass your kind words on to him. Congratulations on completing the course, and thank you for recommending us.

With Kind regards,
The Open College Team

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Very good

Very good, easy to pay

May 14, 2026
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Hi Houmavadee,

Thank you for your 5-star review. We are delighted to hear that you had a very good experience and found our payment process easy.

From everyone at The Open College, we truly appreciate your feedback.

Advertisement
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The College provided great support

The College provided a supporting learning environment with clear communication, helpful tutors, and well - structured coursework that made my overall experience both positive and rewarding.

April 26, 2026
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Hi Andrew,

Thank you for your wonderful 5-star review. We are delighted to hear that you found The Open College to be a supportive learning environment, with clear communication, helpful tutors, and well-structured coursework.

From everyone at The Open College, we truly appreciate your kind feedback and wish you every success in the future.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Communication is smooth

Communication is smooth, problems are solved very quickly, the teachers are all very responsible, a great school! If any friends want to study, I would recommend this school!

April 17, 2026
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Thank you, Yikui, for your kind words and recommendation! We are delighted to hear you have had such a positive experience with our team and teachers. Your support means a lot to us, and we are always here to help you succeed! From Everyone at The Open College

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Love it easy to explore

January 9, 2026
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Thank you, Tinotenda. We are so glad you are finding everything easy to explore - great to have you study with us. From Everyone at The Open College

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The college really help us to succeed

The college really help us to succeed! Glad to study my QQI 5 Level with them.

March 4, 2026
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Thank you, Annunziata. We are delighted to hear that you feel supported in your studies and enjoying your QQI Level 5 course / experience with us. Wishing you every success on your journey ahead. From Everyone at The Open College

Advertisement
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I am currently studying the Health Care…


I am currently studying the Health Care Support Pre-Nursing course at The Open College and I am really enjoying it so far. The online lessons are easy to follow and fit perfectly around everyday life. The tutors are supportive and always ready to help whenever needed. The course content is very relevant and has already given me a great foundation for my future nursing career. The support from the college is excellent and the team is always quick to respond. I would highly recommend this course to anyone looking to start their journey in healthcare

February 20, 2026
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Hi there,

Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed review. We’re absolutely delighted to hear how much you’re enjoying the Health Care Support Pre-Nursing course.

It’s great to know that the flexibility of the online lessons is working well for you, and that you have found the content both relevant and supportive for your future nursing career. We are especially pleased to hear your kind words about our tutors and support teams, they are always here to help.

Wishing you the very best as you continue your studies and take the next steps on your journey into healthcare. Thank you again for your recommendation, it really means a lot to us.

Kindest regards, The Open College Team

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Very happy with my experience!

Very helpful and timely responses! Very friendly also!

February 19, 2026
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Hi Laoise,

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback! We're delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience with us. It’s great to know our team’s helpful, timely, and friendly support made a difference.

We really appreciate you taking the time to share this, and we’re always here if you need anything in the future 😊.

From everyone at The Open College

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Response is quick

February 18, 2026
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Hi Joel,

Thanks a lot for your kind words! We're really glad to hear you were happy with the quick response, we always aim to get back to our customers as promptly as possible.

If there's anything else we can help you with, just let us know 😊

From everyone at The Open College

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Dont go for it - HR course

I had enrolled for HR course , was privided online material, not even link to any online content .
Very good at disconnecting the moodle profile in 2 months , not the same enthusiasm when we enroll
Very bad quality material , tutor just sent 2 emails , thats it , no follow up when closing the account . The AI models will teach better , please think before spending your money on online courses

May 22, 2025
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Hello Pinkskies,

We are very sorry to read that you feel disappointed with your experience, and we take all feedback seriously as learner satisfaction is extremely important to us.

However, we would like to clarify several points and also note that we previously contacted you requesting additional information so that we could properly investigate and assist you. Unfortunately, we have not received any response to those requests, which makes it difficult for us to verify the circumstances described.

For our Human Resources course specifically, all enrolled learners are provided with structured online materials within the Moodle learning platform, including written modules, assessment briefs, and supporting resources. The course is designed as a guided online programme rather than external video-link content, and access details are provided immediately upon enrolment. The final submission date is clearly communicated at the time access is granted, and reminder communications are also issued. In addition, extension options are available to all Human Resources learners who require additional time, but we have no record of any extension request or related communication in this instance.

We also note that there is no reference to attendance at the live online HR support classes that are offered to students. These sessions are specifically scheduled to provide additional explanation, interaction, and opportunities to ask questions beyond the written materials.

Regarding tutor support, the assigned Human Resources tutor is available for contact throughout the course duration, and all student emails are responded to. If only two emails were sent, they would have been replied to in line with our standard support procedures. Tutor engagement and response times are actively monitored.

We regularly receive positive feedback from Human Resources course students regarding both the quality of the materials and the level of tutor support.

As we have been unable to obtain any identifying details despite multiple requests, we are currently unable to confirm the factual accuracy of this review or verify enrolment on the HR course.

We remain fully open to reviewing any genuine concern and encourage you to contact us directly with your student details so that we can investigate and assist appropriately.

Our intention is always to support learners and resolve issues constructively, and we remain willing to do so.

With Kind Regards, The Open College Team

Advertisement
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The course was everything it promised…

The course was everything it promised to be and all the Open College people involved went out of their way to be helpful. No question left unanswered, and the answers and solutions came always very quickly.

September 27, 2025
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Hi Monika,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! 🌟 We’re delighted to hear the course lived up to your expectations and that our team could be there to support you every step of the way. It means a lot to know you felt your questions were answered quickly and thoroughly. Wishing you every success with what you’ve learned, and we are always here if you need us again in the future!

Warm regards,
The Open College Team

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent Support & An Easy Process of Learning

I recently finished Open College Ireland's Business Level 6 course, and I'm really pleased with the experience. My tutor was very helpful, friendly, and competent; they constantly provided me clear feedback and direction, which greatly helped the learning process. With its simple materials and adaptable setup, the course was well-structured and enabled me to manage my studies alongside other responsibilities. The entire process went smoothly and professionally from beginning to end. To anyone thinking about pursuing higher education, I heartily recommend Open College Ireland.

August 26, 2025
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Hello Ivana,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review and kind words. We are delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience with your QQI Business Level 6 course and that your tutor’s support made a real difference along the way. It’s great to know that the flexibility and structure of the course helped you balance your studies with other commitments.

Everyone at the college are truly grateful for your recommendation, and we wish you every success in your future studies and career.

Warm regards,
The Open College Team

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

I did social studies qqi level 5

I did social studies qqi level 5. Tutor was unhelpful in anything i asked, attitude was they didn't seem to care and when they would reply it could be over a week later with a couple of words or very poor sentences like they couldn't even be bothered to reply. Finished the course over a month ago and still haven't received my cert or info on how or when I'll receive it. Emailed the tutor and she said its nothing to do with her... ehm ok emailed the college but still haven't gotten reply

August 15, 2025
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Dear Reviewer,

We’re really sorry to hear about your experience — it’s not the kind of support we want for any of our students. We’d like to look into this properly, but we can’t identify your details from this review. We did request further details from your review but you did not reply to this. If you could contact us directly at admin@theopencollege.com, we’ll be happy to check on your results and make sure you get the help you need.

Just to note for you, QQI certificates are issued directly by QQI at set periods each year. The timing depends on when provisional results are released, and unfortunately this part is outside of our control — but we’ll always do our best to keep students informed along the way.

Thanks again for raising this, and we hope to hear from you soon.

Kind regards,
The Open College Team

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent

Henry is an excellent tutor very helpful. The open college is easy to navigate.

August 8, 2025
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Hi Cara,
Thanks so much for the amazing review! We’re so glad Henry’s been a great help and that you find The Open College's platforms easy to use. Wishing you all the best with the rest of your programme! From everyone at The Open College.

Advertisement
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I completed my finance course two weeks…

I completed my finance course two weeks ago and when I started I struggled with numbers and was finding it difficult but after going on every night with the Tutor Lorriane she had my mind at ease, she went through everything with me and and spent so much time with me to prepare for my exam. She is amazing and just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart.

July 31, 2025
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Hi Stacey,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us — and huge congratulations on completing your finance course! It’s wonderful to hear how much progress you made, especially after feeling unsure at the start. We know how challenging numbers can feel at first, and we’re thrilled that Lorraine’s support helped you gain the confidence you needed.

Your kind words about Lorraine will absolutely be passed on to her — we know she’ll be delighted to hear the difference she made to your learning journey.

Well done again on your achievement, Stacey, and thank you for being part of The Open College community.

Best wishes,
The Open College Team

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent college experience

Excellent college experience. After more than 20 years away from studying, I chose The Open College to restart my education and was thoroughly impressed. The course materials were clear, engaging, and easy to follow. I completed a Level 5 course in Psychology and then advanced to Level 6 in Mental Health Studies. The assignments were enjoyable and thought-provoking. I’ve since recommended The Open College to others looking to return to education. The fully online format allowed me to study at my own pace, without the need to attend lectures. Extensions were granted easily when needed.

July 28, 2025
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Hi Bernadette,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience — and for trusting us with your return to education after such a long break. We are delighted to hear that you found the course materials clear and engaging, and that progressing from Level 5 Psychology to our Level 6 Mental Health course felt rewarding and thought‑provoking.

It’s especially lovely to know that our fully online format and flexible approach helped make studying fit around your life. Your recommendation to others means a great deal to us and to future students who might be taking the same first step you did.

On behalf of all of us here at The Open College, congratulations on everything you’ve achieved and thank you for being part of our learning community.

Wishing you continued success,
The Open College Team

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great college

I recently completed a course with The Open College and I couldn’t be happier with my experience. From start to finish, the support and guidance I received were excellent. The course content was clear, well-structured, and easy to follow, perfect for anyone studying independently or balancing other responsibilities.
The tutors were knowledgeable and always ready to help whenever I had questions. Their feedback was detailed, constructive, and always encouraging. I also appreciated the flexibility the course offered; being able to study at my own pace made a huge difference in my ability to complete the programme successfully.
The online platform was easy to navigate, with all the materials available whenever I needed them. It made the learning process smooth and stress-free.

July 24, 2025
Unprompted review
The Open College logo

Reply from The Open College

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback, Caroline!

We’re delighted to hear that you found the course structure, tutor support, and flexibility so helpful throughout your studies. Congratulations on completing your ELC Major Award programme, and we wish you every success as you move forward with your new skills!

Warm regards, The Open College Team

The Trustpilot Experience

Anyone can write a Trustpilot review. People who write reviews have ownership to edit or delete them at any time, and they’ll be displayed as long as an account is active.

We use dedicated people and clever technology to safeguard our platform. Find out how we combat fake reviews.

Learn about Trustpilot’s review process.

Here are 8 tips for writing great reviews.

Verification can help ensure real people are writing the reviews you read on Trustpilot.

Offering incentives for reviews or asking for them selectively can bias the TrustScore, which goes against our guidelines.

Take a closer look