FAQs & Contacts

FAQs

Application Process 

How can I apply to the University of Galway as a Study Abroad student? 

To apply as a Study Abroad student, check the eligibility requirements with your home university’s International Office. If eligible, complete their application process. Once approved, you can complete the relevant University of Galway application. Complete and submit the online application by the specified deadline. More details are available here. 

What documents are required for the application? 

All students need to submit the following documents via e-mail to studyabroad@universityofgalway.ie 

• Copy of Passport / Birth Certificate
• Up to date Official Transcript
• ID type photo
• Students that wish to take Science or Engineering modules will need to indicate these on the application form.  

Can I apply if my university does not have an agreement with the University of Galway? 

Yes, students from non-partner universities can apply as fee-paying visiting students for a semester or full academic year by completing the application steps here  

Academic Information 

What courses are available to Study Abroad students? 

Study Abroad students can choose from a variety of subjects, including Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Business, Law, Science, and Engineering. You can find the full course list in the Visiting Student Course Handbook. 

Only courses listed in the Visiting Student Handbooks are available to visiting students. The handbooks update in the summer each year but do not vary to a great degree from year to year. However, it is a good idea to identify back options in the event your first choice module is not available for selection.  

How many credits am I expected to take? 

The standard course load is 30 ECTS credits per semester. Most courses are valued at 5 ECTS credits each. You home university will advise how many credits you are required to take.  

Is there an English language requirement? 

Yes, non-native English speakers must provide proof of proficiency. Accepted qualifications and requirements can be found here. 

What happens if I have to repeat an exam?

1. Should a Visiting Student (Erasmus 1EM1, Study Abroad 1OA2, International Exchange 1OA3) fail a module, they will not be automatically enrolled to complete a Second Sit of this module.
2. If a student wishes to complete a Second Sit of a failed module, they must contact their relevant coordinator listed below by 9^TH July 2025.

• Erasmus (1EM1) incomingerasmus@universityofgalway.ie
• Study Abroad/International Exchange (1OA2/1OA3) studyabroad@universityofgalway.ie

         Students should not contact the Exams Office.

3. Availability of Second Sit Examinations will depend on the module coordinator and are not guaranteed. Some module coordinators may offer an alternative assessment in place of an examination. This is at the discretion of the school/college or module coordinator.
4. If a Second Sit examination is available for a module, the coordinator will inform the student to register as a late entry with Student Registry Helpdesk (SRH). Students do not need to contact Exams Office.
5. Second Sit examinations, where available, take place in August and are in person only. Your exam schedule will be available from the Student Registry Helpdesk (SRH) only if you have been registered for a ‘Late Entry’.
6. All students who are availing of a second sit exam must be registered as a ‘late entry’ before the second sit exams period commences. Exam dates are available here. For AY2024/2025, exams commence 5^th August, 2025.
7. Second Sit Examination results will be returned to the International Office for processing.
8. Transcripts will be available for second sit examination results from the International Office. Students do not need to contact Exams Office.

Accommodation 

What accommodation options are available for international students? 

The University offers on-campus residences, including Corrib Village, Goldcrest Village, and Dunlin Village. The vast majority of students (across domestic, international and study abroad) live off-campus in private accommodation. Many students live on the outskirts of the city and commute in via public transport. Because this is the usual practice, we are well set-up to help students source off-campus accommodation. You can find a lot of useful information on our website. Make this stop one on your accommodation information tour. 

 Our Accommodation Advisory Service is here to help you to secure accommodation. Studentpad is your site for finding private, off-campus accommodation.  

How do I apply for on-campus housing? 

If on campus accommodation is available, you will receive an e-mail with application information in June. There is no need to contact the Study Abroad Office, or the On Campus Accommodation Office.  

Financial Information 

How do I pay my tuition and fees? 

International students should pay tuition fees through TransferMate, which provides a secure and efficient payment process. 

What additional costs should I consider? 

Students should budget for accommodation, meals, transport, and personal expenses. Contact your home institution for financial aid or scholarship options. 

Do you offer any scholarships for study abroad? 

University of Galway participates in the Fund for Education Abroad Education in Ireland Scholarship. For more information including eligibility requirements, please visit the Fund for Education Abroad website.  

Travel and Arrival Information 

How do I get to Galway from the airport? 

• From Dublin Airport: Take the CityLink Route No. 660/760/761 to Galway City. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours. 

• From Shannon Airport: Take the Bus Éireann Route No. 51 to Galway City. 

When should I book my flights? 

Book your flight after receiving your acceptance letter. For return flights, choose a flexible date in case exam schedules change. 

When should I arrive? 

We recommend arriving at least 2 days before Orientation to give yourself time to get used to your new surroundings and adjust to the time difference. It’s important to check the availability of any booked accommodation before arrival. 

Orientation and Support 

Is there an orientation programme for new international students? 

Yes, the University runs a mandatory orientation. The dates will be confirmed closer to your arrival. Details can be found here. 

What student support services are available? 

Support includes academic advising, health services, counselling, and cultural activities. See here for more information. 

Student Life 

What clubs and societies can I join? 

There are over 115 societies covering diverse interests. Explore them here. 

Are there sports clubs? 

Yes, over 45 sports clubs are available. Find more details here. 

What is the role of the Students’ Union? 

The Students’ Union represents students, provides support services, and organises events. 

Health and Safety 

Is health insurance required? 

Yes, all international students must have comprehensive health insurance. Proof is required for visa applications and immigration. 

What health services are available on campus? 

The University’s Student Health Unit provides medical support for minor illnesses and prescriptions. 

Communication and Mobile Services 

What mobile SIM card options are available in Ireland? 

Major providers include: 

• Vodafone 

• Eir 

• Three 

Students can purchase a local SIM card or use an eSIM for quick activation without needing a physical SIM.

Living in Galway

How do I use public transport in Galway? 

Get a LEAP Card (young adult/student) for discounted fares on buses and trains in Ireland.  

• Trains: Galway's train station is just off Eyre Square. The city is very well serviced by rail and only 2.5 hours away from Dublin. Find out more information on services and timetables. 

• Buses: You can travel to/from Galway using frequent services offered by our public bus service, or use one of the private bus services such as CityLink or GoBus. Direct (non-stop) buses to/from Dublin take 2.5 hours. There is a coach station in Galway City Centre and many bus stops around the University of Galway campus 

Visa and Immigration 

Do I need a visa to study in Ireland? 

Non-EU/EEA students may require a visa. Check the Irish Immigration Service website for requirements. 

Currently US residents do not require a Visa to enter Ireland but are required to register their permission to remain in Ireland within 90 days of arrival into the country.  

What is the Irish Residency Permit (IRP), and how do I obtain it? 

Non-EU/EEA students must register with the Irish Immigration Service within 90 days of arrival. Required documents include proof of enrolment, proof of funds, and health insurance. More information is available here. 

What Stamp do I get on my Irish Residency Permit? 

Students studying for a semester or full year as part of our study abroad programme or International Exchange receive a Stamp 2A. 

Am I permitted to work whilst studying at University of Galway? 

A Stamp 2A does not give students a right to work whilst studying .