Diversity and Inclusion Abroad

Students with Disabilities

Preparation is key to ensuring your Erasmus / Study Abroad will be accessible and enriching. Doing your research in advance will help you to know what to expect and enable you to best prepare for a successful and enjoyable experience. The Disability Support Service has advice for any students needing additional support to study abroad. Students registered with the Disability Support Service can also organise a planning meeting to discuss how best to prepare for student abroad. More information is available on their website.

Erasmus Funding
Students with disabilities or additional needs may be entitled to apply for extra funds from the Erasmus programme. This additional funding can only be used for Erasmus destinations and cannot be used to support study abroad outside of the Erasmus programme. Contact outgoingerasmus@universityofgalway.ie for guidance on additional funding for students with a disability going on the Erasmus Programme.

Useful links:

• Erasmus Student Network – which links students on Erasmus programmes 
• AHEAD – information for students with disabilities considering travelling abroad to study
• inclusivemobility.eu - The European platform about inclusion and support services offered by higher education institutions, national agencies and ministries for education to international students.

SUSI and Study Abroad

If you are eligible for a SUSI maintenance grant you can still receive this whilst studying abroad. If you were previously in receipt of the Adjacent rate, you may now be eligible for the non-adjacent rate for the duration of your studies abroad.

For the most up to date information, consult the SUSI website.

Diversity and Inclusion Abroad

• Diversity Abroad - Ths website has useful Destination Guides including a Diversity and Inclusion section.
• inclusivemobility.eu - The European platform about inclusion and support services offered by higher education institutions, national agencies and ministries for education to international students.

Resources for LGBTQ+ Travellers

It is important to be aware of the laws pertaining to same-sex relationships in your host country as well as the popular attitudes toward the LGBTQ+ community. You should try to talk with other students who have travelled to the same destination you will be visiting.

You may also want to consult the following websites:

• Outright Action International
• International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association
• International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association Travel Services Finder

Resources for Women Travellers

These websites contain country-specific guidance for women traveling abroad:

• Journey Woman
• Transitions Abroad

Wellbeing Supports whilst abroad

All students studying abroad remain registered students of University of Galway. Students are entitled to make use of the available supports here including:

• Student Counselling Service Online appointments can be made whilst you're away from campus. There will also likely be a similar service available at your host destination for in person appointments. www.universityofgalway.ie/counsellors/
• Student Success Coaches - Studying abroad may feel overwhelming at the start, student success coaches can help navigate successful transition into new university life and surroundings. www.universityofgalway.ie/successcoaching/
• Self Help Resources at University of Galway www.universityofgalway.ie/counsellors/self-help/
• University of Galway Support Wheel A comprehensive list of resources available to you based on your needs and how you are feeling www.universityofgalway.ie/student-services/supportwheel/
• Remember to keep in touch with your Academic Coordinator. They can give you guidance on your classes or programme of study.