University of Galway

The University of Galway is a public research University located in the city of Galway, Ireland. It was established in 1845 and today welcomes more than 18,000 students through its doors who are attracted to its reputation for excellent teaching and leading research. A significantly multicultural University, the institution attracts around 4000 international students from over 122 countries annually.

The University of Galway was awarded Irish University of the Year 2022 in the Sunday Times Good University Guide.

What is the University of Galway acceptance rate?

The University of Galway acceptance rate is 86%.

Overview

The University of Galway provides students with a wide range of facilities. For example, the library is a focal point of the University, with over a million print and digital resources available for students to access. There are also computer labs, study spaces across the campus, and specialised facilities for science and engineering students. The campus also offers a state-of-the-art sports centre, where students can swim, use the gym, play indoor and outdoor sports, and use the climbing wall. There are multiple restaurants and cafes on campus, and the college bar is a popular social spot for students to relax and socialise. The University also provides counselling and other health services to ensure students have access to the resources they need to succeed academically and personally.

Campus Life

Student life at the University of Galway is varied as the multicultural campus unites students to celebrate cultural differences and enjoy shared interests. Over 150 student clubs are registered with the student union: a particularly energetic body of student representatives organising themed nights, quizzes, comedy shows, and live music performances. The ALIVE program was set up to allow students to participate in community service and volunteering activities so students can find numerous ways to stay entertained during their studies.

Accommodation

The University of Galway offers a range of housing options suitable for international students. The archetypal student experience can be had at Corrib Village as it offers students self-catering apartments with fully equipped kitchens and en-suite bathrooms. The communal atmosphere is complemented by on-site amenities such as the gym, supermarket, and café. Other options include Gort na Coiribe, a modern complex of apartments and townhouses with 24-hour security and free Wi-Fi, and Cuirt na Coiribe, a purpose-built student accommodation with on-site laundry facilities.

Employability

The University of Galway strongly emphasises employability, with a Careers Development Centre that gives students a variety of resources to enhance their employability. These services include career guidance, job search support, CV and interview preparation, plus work experience opportunities. The University also offers a range of employability-focused programmes and initiatives. One is the Employability Award, a recognition programme that acknowledges and celebrates students' efforts to develop their employability skills. 96% of graduates are working or in further study 6 months after graduating from the University.

City Life

Live music and local beers are a big part of Galway life. It is Ireland’s third-largest city with a thriving nightlife to offer students and entertainment venues ranging from the Town Hall theatre to Dela restaurant. Steeped in tradition, Galway is alive with festivals such as the Oyster and Galway Comedy festival. Galway ranks as one of the top 5 cities in the world according to Lonely Planet 2020, and it is famed for its friendly inhabitants.