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Orientation

Orientation – January 2026

Céad Míle Fáilte to University of Galway!

A hundred thousand welcomes from the West of Ireland!

We’re delighted that you have chosen to begin your studies with us at the University of Galway. Our university is located on the beautiful west coast of Ireland, close to the Atlantic Ocean and right in the centre of Galway city — one of the friendliest and most lively places in Ireland.

Whether you’ve travelled just a few hours or halfway around the world, we’re excited to welcome you to our university community. Here, you’ll find world-class learning, lasting friendships, and plenty of opportunities to explore Irish culture, language, and the warm Galway atmosphere.

To help you settle in, we’ve lined up a week of orientation and welcome events specifically for you — a mix of helpful information, campus tours, cultural activities, and opportunities to meet fellow students from Ireland and around the globe.

Pathway B Students

The Support Services orientation will take place on Thursday, 8 January at 9:15 am in the Bailey Allen Hall.

9:30 am to 12:30 pm - Support services orientation.

Visiting Students/Erasmus

Erasmus

Erasmus orientation information can be found here.

Visiting Students

Visiting students' orientation information can be found here.

Events

Take part in the big Scavenger Hunting challenge on Saturday, 10 January - Time TBC.

The Scavenger Hunting challenge will involve finding a list of quirky and unique locations around campus and Galway City, while taking photo evidence to prove it. This will be a super fun way to meet other international students, explore the local area and get active!

Registration will be opened in the coming weeks.

Speed Friending

Speed friending will take place on Wednesday, 7 January - Time TBC in Sult. More information to follow...

Karaoke Night

Karaoke night will take place on Thursday, 8 January - Time TBC in Sult. More information to follow...

Arriba Night

Arriba night will take place on Friday, 9 January - Time TBC in Sult. More information to follow...

Campus Tours

Campus Tours - 7-9 January - Explore the University of Galway campus with guided tours departing from outside Áras na Mac Léinn. More information to follow...

Stay tuned here and on our social accounts for details and booking information.

Special Bus Tour Discounts

Take advantage of two limited-time offers to make the most of your Galway experience—enjoy a 20% discount on the Galway City Tour Hop On Hop Off tickets from Thursday, 5 to Monday, 9 September. Book here. Apply code WELCOME2GALWAY at checkout.

There is also 15% off on select day tours with Lally Tours, valid from Thursday, 5 September, through to Tuesday, 23 December. Book here. Apply code WELCOME2GALWAY at checkout.

Whether catching the sights in Galway or heading out for a scenic day trip, these exclusive savings are the perfect way to explore more while spending less. Don’t miss out—book your adventure while these special rates last.