National University of Ireland Galway: Rankings, Fees, Courses & Admissions

Ranked #273 in the 2025 QS World University Rankings, the University of Galway is among the top 2% of universities globally. It also ranks at #555 in U.S. News & World Report and falls within the 351-400 band in the Times Higher Education rankings.

Here's how the University of Galway has performed in global rankings over time:

Ranking Agency	2023	2024	2025
QS World University Rankings	270	289	273
Times Higher Education (THE)	301	301	351-400
U.S. News & World Report	555	555	555

Let’s see the detailed view of the National University of Ireland Galway Rankings, and analyze its subject-specific performance.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2024/25

The University of Galway excels in various global rankings, with Times Higher Education (THE) placing it in the top 250 for Law, Arts and Humanities, and Computer Science.

QS World ranks Performing Arts and Nursing within the 51-100 range, while U.S. News highlights Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems at #106 and Clinical Medicine at #345. These rankings reflect its growing influence across health sciences, STEM, and humanities.

Here’s a closer look at the University of Galway’s performance across various academic fields:

Subject	Ranking Body	Rank 2025
Nursing	QS Rankings	51-100
Medicine	QS Rankings	191
Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems	U.S. News and World Report	106
Clinical Medicine	U.S. News and World Report	345
Law	Times Higher Education (THE)	151-175
Arts and Humanities	Times Higher Education (THE)	251-300

With these strong rankings across various fields, the University of Galway’s campuses play a key role in its continued success. Now, let’s explore the distinctive aspects of its campuses and the contributions they make to the university’s overall achievements.

The Galway campus has grown into one of Ireland’s most active university spaces. Set along the River Corrib, it now spans over 90 buildings across 105 hectares.

A €400 million investment has transformed its research and teaching infrastructure in the past decade. From historic landmarks to modern labs, each corner reflects a blend of legacy and innovation.

The University of Galway has 7 campuses, each dedicated to specific academic disciplines and research areas. Let’s take a closer look at these distinct locations.

• Main Campus - Galway City

This central campus includes important academic and research facilities, including the Hardiman Research Building and the Engineering Building. It's the heart of student life, with proximity to city amenities and the River Corrib.​

• Lambe Institute & HRB Clinical Research Facility

Located next to University Hospital Galway, it bridges lab discovery with patient care. The space drives clinical research and innovation in health science.

• Shannon College of Hotel Management - Shannon, County Clare

Specializing in hotel management, this campus is renowned for its strong industry connections and practical training programs.​

• Áras Moyola - Galway City

Home to the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Áras Moyola features modern facilities dedicated to health sciences education.​

• Biosciences Research Building - Galway City

Located at the northern end of the main campus, this facility houses advanced research laboratories dedicated to bioscience disciplines.

• Dunlin Village (Baile na Breacóige)

Opened in 2023, this €95 million on-campus student residence offers 674 bedrooms across four buildings. Features communal facilities, meeting rooms, and a 24-hour reception and security service. It also includes 35 accessible bedrooms designed for people with disabilities.

With a foundation in world-class research and facilities, the University of Galway offers a wide array of programs that reflect its academic strengths. Let’s explore the standout courses that define its educational landscape.

The University of Galway offers a wide range of programs across all academic levels. With over 50 undergraduate degrees and more than 200 postgraduate courses, as well as numerous research opportunities, the university caters to both domestic and international students.

Additionally, flexible learning options, including part-time and online courses, further enhance its academic offerings. Now, let’s explore some of the most popular programs at the university.

• Bachelor of Arts (English and Creative Writing): The University of Galway’s Creative Writing program spans four years, focusing on genres like fiction, poetry, and screenwriting. Students develop their projects with the guidance of industry mentors and gain practical experience.
• MSc (Biomedical Engineering): It provides advanced technical knowledge with a focus on research and innovation, preparing future leaders in the medical technology sector.
• The Diploma in Manufacturing Automation: It equips students with the skills to operate and manage automated systems in modern manufacturing. The course focuses on Enterprise Simulation, Programming, Sensors and Actuators, and Robotics
• Structured PhD in Education: This is a four-year program that focuses on research in Diversity and inclusion. It combines a doctoral project with taught modules and professional development.
• Bachelor of Nursing Science: A four-year program combining theory and clinical modules, focusing on person-centered care, therapeutic interventions, and teamwork.

Program Fees at National University of Ireland Galway

The average tuition fee for undergraduate courses at the University of Galway ranges from approximately €19,140 (INR 19L) per year for international students. This covers popular programs such as B.Com and BA.

At the postgraduate level, specialized degrees such as the MSc in Biomedical Engineering cost up to €28,140 (INR 28L) annually, while arts-focused programs like the MA in Drama and Theatre Studies are priced at €17,780 (INR 17L).

Below is a breakdown of tuition fees for key programs at the university, including both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Program	Annual Tuition Fee (EUR)	Annual Tuition Fee (INR)
Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)	€19,140	₹18,56,580
Bachelor of Arts (BA)	€19,140	₹18,56,580
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)	€24,040	₹23,31,880
Master of Arts (MA) – English	€19,140	₹18,56,580
Master of Science (M.Sc.) - Biomedical Engineering	€28,140	₹27,29,580

Note:

• Fees may vary depending on the specific program and specialization. For the most accurate and updated information, please refer to the official University of Galway website.
• Currency conversions are approximate and based on the current exchange rate.

With a clear understanding of the tuition structure for key programs, the next step is to explore the university's admission process. Below is a detailed overview of the admission process and requirements for the 2025 academic year.

The National University of Ireland Galway enrolls over 19,000 students, including approximately 4,000 international students from more than 110 countries. Admission requirements vary across programs. For undergraduate courses, Indian applicants typically require a minimum of 65% in Class 12, although this may vary by board and course.

For postgraduate programs, applicants typically require a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum grade of 55% to 75%, depending on the course. English language proficiency is essential, with accepted tests including IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE.

Below is a precise breakdown of the key qualifications and academic criteria required for a successful application to NUI Galway:

Admission Requirements

Admission criteria at the University of Galway differ by program, specialization, and study mode. Part-time applicants over 21 face no formal entry requirements. Courses like Commerce, Science & Technology, and Social Care often require Maths or prior work experience.

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS (minimum 6.5), TOEFL iBT (minimum 88), or PTE (minimum 61). Entry requirements vary from NFQ Level 7 to 9, and prior academic or work experience may be credited under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Here are the admission requirements for studying at the University of Galway:

Academic Qualification

When applying to the National University of Ireland Galway, meeting specific academic qualifications is essential for both undergraduate and postgraduate candidates. For undergraduates, a high school diploma and a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 are required.

Along with these academic prerequisites, standardized test scores, and proof of English proficiency are part of the application process.

Here are the requirements:

Criteria	Details
GPA	UG: Minimum 3.0/4.0 PG: Minimum 2.8/4.0
Transcripts	UG: High school transcripts PG: Bachelor's degree transcripts
Degree	UG: High school diploma PG: Bachelor’s in a relevant field
Standardized Tests	SAT: 1090+ ACT: 21+
English Proficiency	IELTS: 6.5+ TOEFL iBT: 88+ PTE: 61+
Others	Statement of Purpose 1-2 Letters of Recommendation CV (for PG, if needed)

Language Proficiency

English language proficiency is essential for admission to the National University of Ireland Galway. Minimum scores include 6.5 IELTS, 88 TOEFL iBT, and 61 PTE Academic. Competitive programs like MSc Computer Science and MBA often prefer 7.0+ IELTS or 95+ TOEFL iBT.

Below are the detailed language proficiency criteria:

Criteria	Minimum Score	Competitive Score
IELTS	6.5 (no less than 5.5 in any component)	N/A
TOEFL iBT	88	N/A
Pearson PTE Academic	61 (no component below 59)	N/A
Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE)	176	N/A
Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE)	180	N/A

Competitive Exams

For prospective students, competitive exams such as the SAT, ACT, AP, and IB play a crucial role in strengthening applications. While the university sets a baseline score for these exams, higher scores can significantly improve your chances of admission. Let’s explore the specific criteria and competitive benchmarks for each exam.

Criteria	Minimum Score	Competitive Score
SAT	1090	1290
ACT	21	29
Advanced Placement (AP)	6	N/A
International Baccalaureate (IB)	27	N/A

Visa Requirements

Securing a student visa is essential for international students at the National University of Ireland Galway. Ireland has a high visa approval rate, with around 94% of applications approved as of 2024. Being prepared and meeting all requirements ensures a smooth process.

Here are the Visa requirements for admissions at National University of Ireland Galway:

Document	Details
Valid Passport	Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Ireland.
Letter of Acceptance	Official admission letter issued by the University of Galway.
Proof of Funds	Bank statements, affidavits, or scholarship letters showing financial support for at least one academic year.
Visa Application Form	Completed and signed application form through the AVATS online facility.
Passport-size Photograph	Must meet Irish visa photo requirements.
Medical Insurance	Proof of private medical insurance covering the duration of your stay.

Note: Students may be required to pay a portion of their tuition fees (e.g., €6,000/ INR 6L or 50%) before visa approval.

Once you have your visa sorted, the next step is to be aware of the key application deadlines and intake periods. Let’s get into those details.

Application Deadline and Intakes

Understanding application deadlines is crucial when planning your study journey at the National University of Ireland Galway. NUI Galway has two main intakes: Fall (August) and Spring (January). With varying deadlines based on the course type, it’s important to stay informed.

For undergraduate programs, the primary deadline for Irish and EU applicants is 1st February, while postgraduate programs feature rolling admissions with specific review dates. Let’s explore the key deadlines and intakes for different programs.

Course Type	Intake for Students	Deadline
Undergraduate (UG)	Fall: August	1st February (for Irish & EU Applicants)
		Late Applications: 1st May
	Spring: January
		Change of Mind: 1st July
	Summer: May
		Restricted Medical Programme: 1st February
Postgraduate (PG)	Fall: August	Rolling Admissions
	Spring: January	General Review Dates: 1st December, 1st January, 1st February, 1st April, 1st June
	Summer: May	Closing Dates for Specific Courses: Varies by course
Postgraduate Research	Year-round	Rolling Admissions
		PhD (College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Celtic Studies): Mid-July (September intake), Mid-November (January intake)
		Other Research Programmes: Varies

Now that you know when to apply, let’s take a closer look at the financial aspects, including the cost of studying at the National University of Ireland Galway in 2025.

The cost of studying at National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway) varies across programs and degree levels. Undergraduate programs in fields like Engineering, Health Sciences, Business, Humanities, and Education generally range from €19,000 to €27,500 (INR 18.43L to INR 26.68L) per year.

As you plan, keep in mind that tuition alone often accounts for 20% to 45% of the overall costs, with variations based on program and lifestyle. Let’s take a closer look at the tuition breakdown across different programs for a better understanding of the financial commitment.

Course	Tuition Fees (EUR)	Approx. Cost (INR)
Engineering	UG: €27,000/year PG: €28,000/year	UG: INR 26.19L/year PG: INR 27.16L/year
Health Sciences	UG: €27,500/year PG: €28,000/year	UG: INR 26.68L/year PG: INR 27.16L/year
Business	UG: €19,000/year PG: €21,000/year	UG: INR 18.43L/year PG: INR 20.37L/year
Humanities	UG: €19,000/year PG: €20,000/year	UG: INR 18.43L/year PG: INR 19.40L/year
Education	UG: €20,500/year PG: €18,500/year	UG: INR 19.89L/year PG: INR 17.95L/year

Note:

• The above fees are indicative and may vary based on specific programs and courses.
• Currency conversions are approximate and based on the current exchange rate.

Along with tuition fees, there are additional expenses such as housing and food. Let’s explore these further.

Cost of Living

In addition to tuition fees, living expenses are an important factor to consider when planning your education at NUI Galway. Accommodation, food, transportation, and other day-to-day costs can total up to €17,040 (INR 16.51L) per year, making it crucial to budget effectively.

Here are the extra costs to consider:

Purpose	Average Annual Cost (EUR)	Average Annual Cost (INR)
Accommodation & Food	€12,000	INR 11.64L
Books & Study Materials	€720	INR 69.84K
Transportation	€960	INR 93.12K
Utilities (Electricity, Internet, etc.)	€1,200	INR 1.16L
Recreation & Miscellaneous	€2,160	INR 2.09L
Total Estimated Annual Cost	€17,040	INR 16.51L

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Considering the cost of living in Galway, scholarships can provide valuable financial support to ease these expenses. Let's explore some of the available opportunities.

The University of Galway offers a range of scholarships to support both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. Merit-based awards range from €2,000 to €5,000 (INR 1.9L to INR 4.8L), while the Global Achievement Scholarship provides up to 50% off tuition fees.

Beyond university-funded opportunities, external scholarships, such as the Nehru-Fulbright Scholarship, are available through government programs, private organizations, and other sources. These provide additional financial support to help students pursue their academic goals.

Let’s now explore some of the key internal and external scholarships available to students.

Internal Scholarships

The University of Galway offers internal scholarships ranging from €2,000 to €10,000 (INR 1.9L to INR 9.7L) for undergraduate students, including automatic merit-based awards and competitive excellence scholarships.

Fully funded scholarships in Ireland, like the Hardiman PhD Scholarship, also support top-tier researchers with tuition and stipend coverage. These awards aim to recognize academic achievement and ease financial pressure across various disciplines.

Here are some internal scholarships:

Scholarship	Type	Details
Global Achievement Scholarship	Merit-based	Eligibility: International undergraduate students assessed as international for fee purposes and self-funded. Benefits: €2,000 (INR 1.9L) tuition fee reduction for the first year.
Business Postgraduate Merit Scholarships	Merit-based	Eligibility: Non-EU students with a H1 (or international equivalent) in their primary degree. Benefits: Up to 50% tuition fee waiver.
Science & Engineering Merit Scholarships	Merit-based	Eligibility: Non-EU students in specified undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Benefits: €2,000 to €8,000 (INR 1.9L to INR 7.7L).
College of Arts Undergraduate Merit Scholarships	Merit-based	Eligibility: International students applying to undergraduate programmes in the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies. Benefits: €2,000 (INR 1.9L) tuition fee waiver for the first year

Now that internal scholarships are addressed, let's explore the external scholarship options for students.

External Scholarships

​The University of Galway offers several external scholarships for international students. The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships offer a €10,000 (INR 9.7L) stipend and full tuition waiver for one year in selected postgraduate programs.

Additionally, the China Scholarship Council (CSC) Joint Scholarship supports up to 15 Chinese PhD students annually, covering tuition fees and living expenses.

Here is a list of external scholarships options:

Scholarship	Type	Details
Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES)	Merit-based	Eligibility: Non-EU/EEA/Swiss/UK students with a conditional or final offer of admission to a full-time master's. Benefits: €10,000 (INR 9.7L) stipend.
Nehru - Fulbright Scholarship	Merit-based	Eligibility: Indian bachelor's degree holders, minimum 55% marks, and at least three years of work experience. Benefits: Covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, and health insurance
University of Galway International Scholarships	Merit-based	Eligibility: International students assessed as non-EU for fee purposes, with strong academic records.  Benefits: Up to €5,000 (INR 4.8L) tuition fee reduction for the first year.
Claddagh Scholarship (China)	Merit-based	Eligibility: Chinese students applying to undergraduate programs at the University of Galway. Benefits: €1,000 (INR 1L) tuition fee reduction for the first year.

While external scholarships can provide significant financial support, securing a rewarding career post-graduation remains a key factor in the university experience. With that in mind, let's explore the placement opportunities at the National University of Ireland Galway.

Based on the Graduate Outcomes Survey, the University of Galway surveyed 5,559 graduates, receiving 2,884 responses (52%). The table below summarizes the primary outcomes by study level:

Outcome	All Graduates	Undergraduates	Postgraduates
Working full-time	60%	51%	72%
Working part-time	5%	4%	6%
Starting job in next 3 months	1%	1%	1%
Full-time study/training	24%	37%	9%
Part-time study/training	0%	1%	0%
Unemployed, seeking work	6%	4%	10%
Other activity	3%	3%	2%

Postgraduates reported notably higher full-time employment (72%) compared to undergraduates (51%), reflecting more substantial career alignment at advanced levels. These outcomes underscore the university’s commitment to employability and industry engagement.

To further understand the career opportunities available to NUI Galway graduates, it's important to explore the companies and organizations that actively recruit from the university. These top recruiters play a crucial role in shaping the career paths of NUI Galway students, offering roles across various industries.

Here are some of the top recruiters at NUI Galway:

Top recruiters

​NUI Galway graduates have secured positions with a diverse array of esteemed employers across various industries. The university's strong industry connections and comprehensive internship programs play a pivotal role in facilitating these opportunities.​

Some of the top recruiters for NUI Galway graduates include:

• SAP: A global leader in enterprise software solutions, specializing in business applications such as ERP systems, analytics, and cloud-based solutions. SAP is a key player in the digital transformation of industries.
• Medtronic: A prominent global medical device and healthcare solutions company, known for its innovations in surgical equipment, diagnostics, and therapies for chronic conditions.
• Accenture: A multinational consulting and professional services firm, offering services in strategy, consulting, digital, technology, and operations to clients worldwide, helping them navigate complex challenges.
• PwC: A global network of firms providing audit, tax, and advisory services, helping clients with risk management, business performance, and legal matters across various sectors.
• Abbott: A healthcare company specializing in medical devices, diagnostics, branded generic medicines, and nutritional products, working to improve the lives of people around the world.

Given NUI Galway's strong industry connections and successful graduate outcomes, it is essential to compare its performance with that of other leading Irish universities.

Choosing the right university for higher education involves evaluating factors such as employability and career outcomes. For example, NUI Galway has a graduate employability rate of 96%, compared to 92.16% at UCD and 93% at UCC.

These statistics provide a clear picture of how each university supports its students' transition into the workforce. Let’s take a closer look at how NUI Galway compares to UCD and UCC across various key factors.

Parameters	National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG)	University College Dublin (UCD)	University College Cork (UCC)
QS World University Rankings 2025	273	126	273
Tuition Fees	UG: €15,000 to €19,500 per year (INR 14.5L to 17.5L) PG: €14,500 to €22,000 per year (INR 14L to 21L)	UG: €18,000 to €24,000 per year (INR 17.5L to 23.2L) PG: €17,000 to €25,000 per year (INR 16.5L to 24L)	UG: €12,000 to €18,000 per year (INR 11.4L to 17.2L) PG: €15,000 to €22,000 per year (INR 14.2L to 21L)
Total Number of Courses	130+	500+	250+
Popular Courses	UG: BA in English, BSc in Psychology, BA in Geography PG: MSc in Data Science, MA in Journalism, MA in International Relations	UG: BA in Law, BSc in Computer Science, BA in History PG: MSc in Marketing, MSc in Finance, LLM	UG: BA in Psychology, BSc in Biochemistry, BEng in Mechanical Engineering PG: MSc in Environmental Science, MSc in Engineering
Average Salary after Graduation	N/A	N/A	€30,000 (INR 28.5L)
Post-study Work Visa Opportunity	Yes	Yes	Yes
Scholarships	Global Achievement Scholarship Business Postgraduate Merit Scholarships	UCD International Scholarships UCD Global Excellence Scholarship	UCC International Scholarships UCC Global Excellence Scholarships

Note: The tuition fee is calculated as the average for top courses.

University of Galway offers a dynamic student life, with over 100 clubs and societies, extensive sports programs, and resources for career and personal development. Students are encouraged to participate in activities that promote social engagement, wellness, and career readiness.

Here are the different activities at the University of Galway:

• Clubs & Societies: With over 100 student-run clubs and societies, the University of Galway offers something for every interest:
  • Writers' Society: A space for students to explore creative writing through workshops and readings.
  • DramSoc: Hosts theatre productions and provides opportunities for acting enthusiasts.
  • Energy Society: Focuses on sustainability and organizes events like the Galway Energy Summit.
  • Healthcare Society: Offers discussions and events for students in the medical field.
  • Literary & Debating Society: Engages students in debates and public speaking to develop communication skills.
• Sports & Recreation: University of Galway supports a healthy lifestyle with 47 sports clubs and a state-of-the-art sports center:
  • Basketball Club: Offers competitive and recreational opportunities for basketball players.
  • Rowing Club: Provides training and competition in rowing.
  • Sailing Club: Organizes outings and training sessions in Galway Bay.
  • Snow Sports Club: Runs winter trips for skiing and snowboarding.
  • Golf Club: Hosts regular tournaments and leisure sessions at local courses.
• Health & Counseling: The Student Counselling Service offers individual counseling, workshops, and mental health support via Togetherall, an online platform accessible 24/7 for peer support and resources.
• Career Development: The Career Development Centre offers support through Careers Connect, CV workshops, and interview preparation to help students transition into their careers with confidence.

Alumni of the University of Galway have made significant contributions in various fields, such as healthcare, research, business, and public service. Here are some of the university’s most notable alumni.

Over 120,000 alumni from the University of Galway contribute to the community across more than 100 countries, including Ireland’s sitting President. From Tony Award winners to national leaders and global engineers, its graduates have shaped culture, science, politics, and innovation.

Below are some of the most influential names:

Name	Field of Work	Contribution
Michael D. Higgins	Politics	9th President of Ireland since 2011 Former Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht.
Nicola Coughlan	Arts & Entertainment	Actress known for roles in Derry Girls and Bridgerton.
Enda Kenny	Politics	Former Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland (2011–2017) Leader of Fine Gael (2002–2017).
Garry Hynes	Theatre	Co-founder and Artistic Director of Druid Theatre Company First woman to win the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Play.
Marie Mullen	Theatre	Co-founder of Druid Theatre Company Acclaimed actress with numerous stage credits.
Mick Lally	Theatre & Television	Actor and co-founder of Druid Theatre Company Known for roles in Irish television and theatre.
Máire Whelan	Law	Former Attorney General of Ireland Currently serving as a judge of the Court of Appeal.