University of Galway
West of Ireland's Premier University | Ranked #284
Overview
University of Galway was founded in 1845 as Queen's College Galway and stands on the banks of the River Corrib in the heart of Galway city, on Ireland's stunning west coast. It is Ireland's only bilingual university, offering programmes in both Irish and English, and has deep cultural connections to the Gaeltacht Irish-speaking communities of nearby Connemara.
The university is internationally recognised for its research excellence in marine science, biomedical engineering, data analytics, and human rights law. Through the Ryan Institute, it leads Ireland's marine and environmental research, while its location in Europe's medtech capital, home to Medtronic, Boston Scientific, and Zimmer Biomet, provides students with exceptional industry connections and placement opportunities.
With over 18,000 students including 3,000 international students from more than 110 countries, University of Galway offers a warm, welcoming environment in one of Ireland's most vibrant and culturally rich cities. Galway is famous for its arts festivals, traditional music pubs, cobblestone streets, and proximity to the Aran Islands, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Wild Atlantic Way.
Why Choose University of Galway
Galway Cultural Capital
Galway is Ireland's cultural heart, a vibrant, bohemian city famous for its arts festivals, live music, street performers, and the stunning Wild Atlantic Way coastline on its doorstep.
Marine Science Leader
Home to the Ryan Institute and Ireland's only dedicated marine science school, the university leads globally in ocean research, climate science, and environmental sustainability.
Medtech Cluster
Galway is Europe's medtech capital, home to Medtronic, Boston Scientific, Zimmer Biomet, and Stryker, providing unmatched internship and career opportunities for STEM students.
Bilingual Heritage
As Ireland's only bilingual university (Irish and English), University of Galway offers a unique cultural experience and strong connections to the Gaeltacht Irish-speaking communities of Connemara.
Stunning West Coast
The campus sits on the banks of the River Corrib, minutes from Galway Bay, the Aran Islands, the Cliffs of Moher, and the wild beauty of Connemara.
Strong Research Impact
A member of the Coimbra Group of prestigious European universities, with world-leading research in biomedical science, data analytics, human rights law, and renewable energy.
Popular Courses for International Students
Undergraduate Programmes
BSc Computer Science
Software engineering, AI, data science, cybersecurity, cloud systems
BComm Business
Accounting, economics, marketing, management, business analytics
BE Engineering
Civil, mechanical, electrical, electronic, biomedical, energy engineering
MB Medicine
Clinical placements, anatomy, pathology, University Hospital Galway
BSc Marine Science
Oceanography, marine biology, coastal management, field research
BSc Biomedical Science
Human biology, pharmacology, microbiology, clinical diagnostics
BCL Law
Human rights law, EU law, constitutional law, moot courts, clinical legal education
BA Arts
English, history, sociology, political science, Irish studies, philosophy
Postgraduate Programmes
MSc Data Analytics
Machine learning, statistical modelling, big data, Python, R
MSc Biomedical Science
Regenerative medicine, medical devices, diagnostics, clinical research
MBA
Strategy, leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, global business
MSc Marine Science
Ocean science, marine ecology, coastal zone management, field work
LLM (Master of Laws)
International human rights, public law, EU law, corporate governance
MSc Computer Science
AI, software engineering, data analytics, enterprise systems
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- Academic: Completion of 12 years of education with strong grades equivalent to Irish Leaving Certificate points
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (no band below 5.5)
- TOEFL: 88 (internet-based)
- PTE Academic: 61
- Application: Via CAO (Irish system) or University of Galway Direct for international applicants
- Documents: Transcripts, personal statement, passport, English test results, reference letters
Postgraduate
- Academic: Bachelor's degree with Second Class Honours (2:1) or equivalent GPA
- IELTS: 6.5 – 7.0 (depending on programme)
- TOEFL: 88 – 100 (internet-based)
- PTE Academic: 61 – 72
- Application: Direct via University of Galway's online application portal
- Documents: Transcripts, CV, personal statement, 2 academic references, portfolio (some programmes)
Application Deadlines
- September Intake (Main): February 1 (CAO) / June 30 (Direct, recommended: April for visa processing)
- January Intake: Limited programmes; check specific course pages on universityofgalway.ie
- Rolling Admissions: Some postgraduate programmes accept applications year-round until places are filled
Scholarships for International Students
International Student Scholarship
Up to €4,000
High-achieving non-EU students applying to full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programmes
Hardiman Research Scholarships
Full fees + stipend
Outstanding PhD candidates in priority research areas across all disciplines
Sports Scholarships
Up to €4,000
Elite athletes competing at national or international level who will represent University of Galway
Government of Ireland Scholarship
€10,000 + full fees
High-achieving non-EU students selected through the national HEA competition
College of Science & Engineering Award
Up to €3,000
International students accepted to undergraduate or postgraduate STEM programmes
Creative Arts Scholarship
Up to €2,500
Students demonstrating exceptional talent in music, drama, visual arts, or creative writing
Campus & Student Life
Campus Facilities
- Riverside campus on the banks of the River Corrib
- James Hardiman Library: extensive print and digital collections
- Human Biology Building: state-of-the-art biomedical research
- Engineering Building with advanced labs and workshops
- Ryan Institute for marine and environmental research
- Kingfisher Sports Centre with gym, pool, and playing fields
- On-campus accommodation at Corrib Village and Goldcrest Village
- Bailey Allen Hall and student hub with dining and social spaces
- An Taibhdhearc, the national Irish-language theatre on campus
- The Quad, an iconic limestone building and campus centrepiece
Student Life
- 120+ clubs and societies, one of the most active in Ireland
- International Students Society and buddy programme
- Literary & Debating Society, Ireland's oldest university society
- Sports clubs: rugby, soccer, GAA, rowing, sailing, surfing
- Cultural societies: drama, trad music, film, dance, comedy
- Students' Union with welfare, events, and advocacy services
- Part-time work: 20 hours/week during term, 40 hours during holidays
- Galway Arts Festival, Film Fleadh, and Galway Races events
- Career Development Centre with west-of-Ireland employer connections
Location & Contact
Address
University Road, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
Getting There
- From Shannon Airport: 1.5 hours by Bus Eireann (51) or taxi (€60–€80)
- From Dublin Airport: 3 hours by Citylink or GoBus coach services
- Bus: Multiple Bus Eireann routes connect the campus to Galway city
- Train: Galway Ceannt Station is 15 minutes' walk from campus
Contact Information
- Phone: +353 91 524411
- Email: international@universityofgalway.ie
- Website: www.universityofgalway.ie
- International Office: www.universityofgalway.ie/international-students
Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (GMT/IST)
Ready to Study at University of Galway?
Join 3,000+ international students in Ireland's cultural capital. Our team will guide you through every step, from application to arrival in Galway.
