Around 600 families usually welcome students into their homes at locations around the country each summer.
The majority of courses are offered in Counties Galway and Donegal. But students also travel to Cork, Waterford, Kerry, Meath and Mayo
Those who house and cater for students during their time in the areas say this is the first time it has ever happened.
Bean an Tí, Sally Roarty from Dunlewey in Co Donegal, says it's a major blow for herself and the local community:
