Sayyed families usually have family tree proving their lineage. If they don't have a family tree but known in their native place as Sayyeds,b that also is considered as a proof.
Studying in Hawza is open for every one who is interested in Islamic knowledge and does not need any proof of lineage.
Seeking knowledge of Islam and Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) is the most valuable thing one is able to do. It is a long-term investment in which not only you will benefit from, but so will those around you.
You do not necessarily need to travel to Qom or Najaf to learn the important sciences of Islam, unless of course you wish to become a cleric or a qualified religious scholar.
Along with your day job, or secular studies, you are also able to allocate time to study religion, but just make sure you are following a syllabus and have correct guidance from a fellow Hawzah graduate. I am sure you will be able to find someone local, and in your language as well.
I have put together a Facebook page that shares useful information regarding Hawzah, and initial stages that can be taken to pursue Hawzah studies, even from a distance.
As far as there being an English speaking curriculum, or madarasa is concerned, in Najaf al-Ashraf, I do not think there is such an establishment.
However, I also do not recommend that if you were interested in joining the Hawzah, that you study only in English. It is imperative that a Hawzah student not only learns Arabic, but also masters it. Ultimately, you are going to be working not just with Arabic Hawzah texts, but also the Quran and hadith, and with deeper insight and stronger comprehension.
You will be able to pick up on the language quickly, and learn it like how all other non-Arabs have learnt it.
As for information, I have a FB page where I have put together some sources and material for Hawzah studies. Hopefully it will be of benefit:
The answer to this question would vary, based on which country and which Hawzah institute you will to apply to. The age limit would depend on individual cases, and educational history. As for costs, there is usually no costs for joining the Hawzah.
For the holy city of Qom, the administrative body for non-Iranian students is Al-Mustafa International University. Their website is:
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