What if your university not only recognized your potential but also rewarded it? At the University of Galway, Ireland’s most dynamic research-driven institution, 2026 brings a spectacular lineup of undergraduate scholarships designed to fuel ambition, celebrate excellence, and make higher education accessible to all.
Whether you shine in academics, the arts, sports, or civic engagement — or come from a background that deserves a helping hand — Galway has a scholarship waiting for you.
Scholarship Introduction
The University of Galway Undergraduate Scholarships 2026 open doors for talented students from every corner of the world. These scholarships honour excellence across various categories — from academic brilliance and artistic talent to community service and athletic achievement.
Each scholarship goes beyond financial aid; it’s a recognition of perseverance, talent, and the potential to shape tomorrow’s world.
Galaway undergrad Scholarship Award Amount
Below are some of the most prestigious awards available for 2026 entry:
| Scholarship Name | Value / Coverage | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| University of Galway Excellence Scholarship | €1,500 | Automatically awarded to 40 new entrants with top CAO points. |
| Creative Arts Performance Points Scholarship | Additional 40 CAO points | Recognizes exceptional talent in writing, music, film, or digital media. |
| Sporting Excellence Scholarships | Varies by scheme | Includes subsistence grants, coaching, medical, and career support. |
| Civic Engagement Scholarship | €1,500 | For leaders in community or social initiatives. |
| University of Sanctuary Scholarship | Full tuition fee waiver + €3,300 stipend | Supports refugees, asylum seekers, and vulnerable immigrant groups. |
| Mature Student Entrance Scholarship | €1,500 | Automatic award for mature students returning to full-time education. |
| Google Insight Scholarship | €5,000 per year (up to 5 years) | For underrepresented and socioeconomically disadvantaged students. |
| Hygeia Scholarship | €4,000 per year | For business and engineering students from disadvantaged backgrounds. |
| Optum North-West Healthcare Scholarship | €25,000 (total) | Supports students from Donegal in healthcare programmes. |
| Dr. Karen Guinee Scholarship | €6,250 per year | For medical students facing social, cultural, or financial barriers. |
| Cunningham Civil & Marine Scholarship | Up to €10,000 | For civil engineering students showing passion and need. |
| CLS Excellence Scholarship (Science) | €3,000 per year | For high-achieving science students with financial need (SUSI grant holders). |
| Naughton Scholarship (National Scheme) | €6,000 per year | For students in science, engineering, or technology disciplines. |
| All-Ireland Scholarships | €6,750 per year | Prestigious national award for top Leaving Certificate achievers. |
Eligibility Requirements for All Applicants
- Applicants must hold or be applying for undergraduate admission at the University of Galway for the 2026 intake.
- Some awards are automatic (based on CAO points or academic merit).
- Others require a written application, personal statement, or evidence of creative, sporting, or civic achievement.
- Specific scholarships such as the University of Sanctuary, Google Insight, and Hygeia Scholarship are reserved for students from refugee, minority, or low-income backgrounds.
- Country-specific scholarships (like Mayo, Roscommon, and Donegal) are available to residents of those counties.
How to Apply?
Applying for these scholarships is simple:
- Visit the official portal at universityofgalway.ie/scholarships.
- Choose your preferred scholarship category (Academic, Creative Arts, Sport, Civic Engagement, Access, or Industry).
- Complete the online application form, upload required documents, and submit before the stated deadline.
- Some awards are automatic, requiring no separate application — you’ll be notified after enrolment if you qualify.
Application Timeline (2026 Entry)
- Creative Arts Performance Points Scholarship: Opens 31 January 2026, closes May 2026 (TBC).
- Sporting Excellence & Civic Engagement Scholarships: Open Spring 2026 (Exact dates TBC).
- University of Sanctuary Scholarship: Apply by Summer 2026 for September entry.
- Google Insight & Hygeia Scholarships: Applications due October 2026 after enrolment.
- Optum Healthcare Scholarship: Deadline April 2026.
- Pauline & Bunnie Jones Scholarship: Apply by 1 August 2026.
- Naughton Scholarships: Application portal opens March 2026.
- 1916 Bursary & Uversity Scholarships: Expected to open September 2026 and February 2026 respectively.
Why Study at Galway?
Studying at the University of Galway means immersing yourself in an inspiring academic environment surrounded by Ireland’s west coast charm. With world-class faculty, generous financial support, and a commitment to inclusion and innovation, Galway ensures every student — no matter where they come from — has the opportunity to thrive.