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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

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!

Register here

Speed Friending

Speed friending will take place on Wednesday, January 7, from 17:00 to 19:00 pm in Sult.

Karaoke Night

Karaoke night will take place on Thursday, 8 January, from 21:00 pm in Sult.

Arriba Night

Arriba night will take place on Friday, 9 January - from 20:30 to close in Sult.

A list of orientation events

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.