Study Abroad in
Galway, Ireland

Language: English, Irish

Climate: Maritime

Currency: Euro

About the City

Maybe it’s the stunning coastline, or the rolling green hills, or the misty, mysterious weather; whatever the cause, the small city of Galway has long drawn musicians, artists, writers, and creative types to its charming streets. As you study abroad in Galway, you’ll enjoy the thriving theater and music scenes, browse the city's bustling markets, and feast on legendary seafood fresh from Galway Bay. Head to nearby Salthill for rowing, kayaking, and wind surfing, or take an Irish Gaelic language immersion program in the traditional village of An Cheathru Rua in Connemara. Whatever adventures you choose in Galway, you'll love immersing into Irish life in this quaint university town. Spend a semester, summer, or academic year studying abroad in Galway and explore Ireland's cultural heart.

Student Testimonials

"My program took place in Carraroe, Ireland, near Galway. This program was the perfect fit because of several new experiences. I was immersed in a rural lifestyle, along with a new language and culture, and met and connected with many people. CEA CAPA..."

Zoe Hilcoff

University of Florida

GoOverseas

Summer 2023, Ireland

"I loved Galway, it was a really lively place with an amazing local music scene, nightlife, and interesting culture. I appreciated being part of my CEA CAPA program as the guidance and assistance I received while initially adjusting to Galway and thro..."

Julia Ross-McGuire

University at Albany - SUNY

GoOverseas

Spring 2023, Ireland

"I really cannot express enough how amazing it was to study abroad in Galway, Ireland. Everything about this location is beautiful and worthwhile, and out of all the other countries I visited while abroad (The Netherlands, England, Poland and Spain), ..."

Kelsey Fredricks

University at Albany - SUNY

GoOverseas

Spring 2019, Ireland

"After living in Galway for 2 months, I can say that it is my favorite place I've ever been to. Galway has somewhat of a city feel while still having a small-town, cozy feel. I've become friendly with the locals and it's impossible to go into town wit..."

Julie Vartigian

University at Albany - SUNY

GoOverseas

Spring 2018, Ireland

"I studied at the National University of Ireland at Galway. I miss the city's friendly atmosphere everyday! NUIG is a great research university, offering courses to most majors. All my professors at NUIG were incredibly knowledgable and kind. When I n..."

Margaret Gorman

University at Albany - SUNY

GoOverseas

Fall 2016, Ireland

Programs in Galway (5)

Show All Galway Programs

Where You'll Study

Our Partner Institutions

What Students are Saying about Ireland

My Experience Interning Abroad at the Dublin International Film Festival
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My Experience Interning Abroad at the Dublin International Film Festival

CEA CAPA Content Creator Greta Caliri writes about what it was like to intern with the Dublin International Film Festival. Read more.

Falling in Love with The Emerald Isle: Studying Abroad in Dublin, Ireland
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Falling in Love with The Emerald Isle: Studying Abroad in Dublin, Ireland

CEA CAPA Alum Javier Del Bosque Gomez writes about his experience exploring Irish culture while studying abroad in Dublin, Ireland. Learn more.

Exploring the Irish Landscape as a Study Abroad Student in Galway, Ireland
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Exploring the Irish Landscape as a Study Abroad Student in Galway, Ireland

CEA CAPA Content Creator Veronica Fuentes writes about her experience exploring the Irish landscape while studying abroad in Galway, Ireland.

View more blog posts

Excursions

Get out and explore! Excursions are offered for most semester, year, and summer programs. Semester students are typically offered between two to three excursions and summer study students are typically offered between one to two excursions. You'll receive a calendar of excursions during orientation; here are a few day and overnight excursions we've offered in the past.

Where You'll Stay

We offer different housing options to match your budget, preferences, and study abroad goals. Housing options may change and will be confirmed on the housing application form prior to the start of the term. Below are the housing options that have been offered in the past.

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Learn more about what's included with CEA CAPA housing.

Alumni Ambassadors

Emma Murphy

Emma Murphy

University of Tennessee

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Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Studying abroad in Ireland is a life changing event for many students. When you study abroad in Galway, you experience learning outside the traditional classroom setting, gain international insight, and expand your sense of cultural awareness. You will experience new culture, food, and meet people from all over the world making lifelong friends and expanding your network. Plus, you get to travel to places you've only read about.
Galway is less expensive than Ireland’s capital city, Dublin. Ireland is an island, so expect higher prices due to imported products and high tourism rates.
Galway is a small city that ranks very low on the crime index and is considered one of the safest places to visit in Ireland.
Galway is a university town with a thriving theater and music scene. The University of Galway is rated in the top 1% of global universities. It’s a unique place for students seeking a great balance between nature and city life. Galway is considered the cultural capital of Ireland because it’s filled with colorful cafes, popular pubs, and renowned arts and entertainment. You’ll get a glimpse into rich Irish heritage and history here, with locals still speaking the Irish language (Gaeilge) daily.
Galway is a harbor city on Ireland’s west coast, in the province of Connacht. Ireland’s second-largest city is just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Dublin, and marks the halfway point on the 1,500-mile-long coastal road called Wild Atlantic Way.Galway is known as the festival capital of the country, hosting an average of 122 festivals and events every year. It’s also a top destination for Irish water sports and hiking at some of Ireland’s most popular natural attractions like Aran Islands, Connemara, Galway Bay, and Salthill beaches.

Academic Life & Courses

CEA CAPA students in Galway take courses at the University of Galway in subjects like Irish studies, literature, history, business, and health sciences.
Yes. All courses are taught in English at the University of Galway, with some Irish language courses available for those interested.
Yes. Credit transfer depends on each student’s home university and its academic policies. Students are responsible for confirming credit approval with their home institution before studying abroad, as transferability is determined by the home university, not by CEA CAPA. 

Housing & Daily Life

Students typically live in shared student apartments located within a short commute to campus and the city center.
Yes. All CEA CAPA Galway housing options include WiFi and access to a washing machine. Dryers are not common abroad, so students should plan to hang dry their clothes, which is the standard practice in Europe.
Galway is a walkable city with reliable local buses for longer distances. Most students walk or bike to class and local shops.

Language & Culture

No. English is the primary language in Galway. Irish (Gaelic) is spoken in some areas, but it's not required for daily life or classes.
Galway is known for its lively arts scene, friendly community, and deep Irish heritage. Expect music, festivals, and coastal charm.
Yes. Galway’s university setting and small-town atmosphere make it easy to meet local and international students through events and activities.
Yes. While English is the primary language in both Ireland and the U.S., you’ll notice some differences in vocabulary, spelling, and accents. In Ireland, everyday words may vary like “lift” instead of “elevator” or “craic” to mean fun or good times. The Irish accent can also differ by region, but most students adjust quickly and enjoy learning local phrases.

Travel & Exploration

Students often visit Dublin, the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, and the Aran Islands. Galway is well-located for exploring western Ireland. It's also common for students to travel to other popular locations in Europe on the weekends. 
CEA CAPA excursions may include guided visits to the Burren, Galway Bay, historical sites, and scenic coastal towns. 
Galway has a mild but often rainy climate. Expect cool temperatures, frequent clouds, and pack a waterproof jacket. 
It rains often, but not always. Irish weather can change quickly, so pack layers and bring a waterproof jacket rather than an umbrella. You’ll likely experience cool temps and drizzle even in spring, but sunny days pop up often enough to enjoy the outdoors comfortably. 

Budget & Affordability

Galway is generally more affordable than Dublin. Students can budget for food, transit, and entertainment with access to student discounts. 
Yes. Student apartments include kitchens, and many students shop at local markets or grocery stores to prepare meals at home. 
No. U.S. students typically cannot work while abroad. However, CEA CAPA offers internship opportunities for academic credit. 

Health, Safety & Support

Yes. Galway is considered a safe and welcoming city. CEA CAPA provides safety guidance, 24/7 emergency support, and local resources.
CEA CAPA provides onsite staff, orientation, academic support, and wellness check-ins throughout your program.
CEA CAPA staff help students access local healthcare services, including English-speaking providers. Insurance is included and covers most routine needs.

Application, Visas & Logistics

Students in CEA CAPA programs in Ireland lasting longer than 90 days may require a visa. CEA CAPA provides support, necessary documentation, and a checklist to guide students through the Irish visa application process.
Students are encouraged to apply 6–9 months in advance to secure placement and allow sufficient time for housing arrangements and visa processing if applicable.
Students must provide a valid passport, visa application, proof of insurance, program acceptance letter, and housing confirmation when applying for a study abroad visa. CEA CAPA provides a comprehensive checklist to guide students through the process.