University of Galway

Overview

The University of Galway is a public research university in Ireland. Founded in 1845, the university is listed in the top 30 most beautiful campuses in Europe. The university ranks among the 2% of the best universities in the world and has more than 19,000 students.

Highlights

Acceptance Rate: 86%

Total International Students: 4,000+ (from 110 countries)

Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1

Placement Percentage: 96%

University of Galway Rankings

The University of Galway is consistently ranked among the top universities in Ireland. Here are some of the top rankings of the University of Galway:

Ranking Agency

Rank

U.S. News & World Report

  • 528 in Best Global Universities 
  • 198 in Best Global Universities in Europe
  • 4 in Best Global Universities in Ireland

QS World University

284 in Top Global Universities

Times Higher Education (THE) World University

  • 351 – 400 in World University Ranking
  • 151 – 175 for Law
  • 251 – 300 for Medical & Health
  • 251 – 300 for Engineering

University of Galway Intake

The University of Galway offers two intakes, Autumn and Spring. The details are as follows:

  • Autumn Intake: Autumn (September), aka primary intake for its UG and PG programs. Applications are generally due in mid-July for the intake.
  • Spring Intake: Secondary intake (January) of the university, only available for selected taught postgraduate programs, with applications due in mid-November.

University of Galway Courses

The University of Galway has a number of UG, PG, PhD, part-time, evening, and online courses in different fields of study. The best courses of the University of Galway include:

Program

Duration

Total Tuition Fees

Master of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering

1 Year

€28,000

MSc in Business Analytics

1 Year

€21,000

Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering

1 Year

€28,000

Master of Science in Computer Science-Artificial Intelligence

1 Year

€28,000

MSc in Cybersecurity Risk Management

1 Year

€21,000

MSc in Mathematics

1 Year

€19,000

LLM in Gender and Human Rights

1 Year (2 Years Part-time)

€20,000

Cost of Studying at the University of Galway

The cost of studying at the University of Galway is decided based on the program and whether you are an international student or not. The detailed breakdown is as follows:

Expenses Type

Expenses

UG Tuition Fees

€15,000 – €55,140/year

PG Tuition Fees

€14,500 – €28,000/year

Student Levy

€140

Health Insurance

€300 – €1,000

University of Galway Scholarships

The University of Galway has a number of merit scholarships and global excellence scholarships available to international students. These scholarships are as follows:

Scholarships

Value

Details

University of Galway Excellence Scholarship

€1,500

Awarded to top‑scoring students

CASSCS Postgraduate Merit Scholarship (PG)

€1,500 (Reduction in Tuition Fee)

Awarded based on academic merit/achievement

Business Postgraduate Merit Scholarships

Up to 50% Tuition Fee

Awarded based on merit

College of Science & Engineering (PG)

Up to €10,000

Awarded based on academic merit/achievement

University of Galway Admission

The University of Galway receives UG applications through the Central Applications Office (CAO). In the case of PG applications, applicants will be required to apply online via the postgraduate application centre (PAC) of the University with an application fee of €35. The admission requirements are as follows:

Masters

Admission Requirements:

International students are required to obtain a Bachelor’s degree or an Irish degree with 2:2/2:1/1st level of equivalency.

English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

  • TOEFL (iBT) – 79 – 95
  • IELTS 5 – 7.5
  • PTE 61 – 65
  • Cambridge C1 / C2 – 154 – 185

Additional Requirements:

You must submit your academic transcripts and English language proficiency scores. Some programs may require you to submit your CV, proof of work experience, an essay, personal statement.

Bachelors

Admission Requirements:

International students must have completed their high school diploma or equivalent to an Irish degree.

English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

  • TOEFL (iBT) – 79 – 95
  • IELTS 5 – 7.5
  • PTE 61 – 65
  • Cambridge C1 / C2 – 154 – 185

Additional Requirements:

You must submit your academic transcripts and English language proficiency scores. Depending on your program requirements, you may be required to submit your CV, an essay, personal statement.

Accommodation at the University of Galway

University of Galway offers students residences (both on-campus and off-campus), owner-occupied as well as private sector accommodation.

  • On-Campus Housing: Dunlin Village, Goldcrest Village, and Corrib Village are on-campus student residences offered to students with amenities such as a grocery shop, a tennis court, a soccer pitch, a games room, and a laundrette.
  • Off-Campus Housing: Eight student residences are located near campus specifically for the students of the University of Galway.

University of Galway Placements

University of Galway’s 96% of undergraduate and 94% of postgraduate students are in employment or studying further after graduation from the university. CV reviews and Interview prep support are provided by the university to ensure students are well prepared. Some of the top employers of the University of Galway are:

  • Abbott
  • Accenture
  • Boston Scientific
  • Corrib Oil
  • Deloitte
  • ESB Group
  • Genesys
  • Grant Thornton
  • KPMG
  • Medtronic
  • PwC
  • Wayfair

Student Essential Services

The University of Galway has a dedicated team for student support, including academic, personal, and professional life. Here are some of them:

  • Health and Wellbeing: The university offers one-to-one counselling, crisis support, on-campus medical care, mental health programs, and more to its students.
  • Academic Support: Academic Writing Centre, Library, Academic Skills Hub, exam prep resources, and Global Student Support are available.
  • Clubs and Societies: The university offers a wide range of student societies and sports clubs, ranging from academic, cultural, environmental, and creative interests to competitive sports and outdoor activities.

Location of University of Galway

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there bridging courses or orientation sessions for international students at the University of Galway?

First-year students have their orientation sessions at the university. They are designed to help students adjust to university life.

Can I pay tuition in installments at the University of Galway, or is full prepayment required?

International students typically pay tuition fees in two installments at the University of Galway. The first payment includes semester fees and mandatory fees required for a student visa, while the second payment covers the second semester fees.

What visa type do I need, and how long is it valid for the University of Galway?

As an international student, you would need a Type D study visa for full-time programs at the University of Galway. It is typically valid for 3 – 12 months, depending on your program.

How active are clubs, sports, and campus events at the University of Galway?

The University of Galway is known for its vibrant campus and student life. The university has several active clubs, sports, and campus events for its students.

Are there 24/7 emergency services or helplines at the University of Galway?

The University of Galway has a control centre that is open 24/7 with security on patrol round the clock for the students.

Are there campus jobs at the University of Galway or internships I can apply for?

The University of Galway offers several on-campus jobs and internship opportunities for its students. Students can take up research and teaching assistant positions at the University.

What’s the public transport like in and around Galway for international students?

International students can opt for city buses, regional buses, and trains in Galway. Students can also benefit from student discounts from Leap Card.

Copyright © Unifi Lending LLC. All Rights Reserved 2025.