University of Galway Access Centre

02/09/2026

A brilliant few days at the EAIR Forum 2026 in Vilnius, Lithuania 🇱🇹, exploring this year’s theme, Strengthening trust between higher education and society.

We were delighted to present “Shared Futures: Collaborating with Irish Traveller and Roma Communities in Galway”, sharing the work of the Access Centre at University of Galway and our approach to building trust through long-term, relationship-based engagement.

Thank you to everyone who joined our session and contributed to such a valuable discussion. It was a great opportunity to exchange ideas with colleagues from across Europe and beyond, and to hear different perspectives on building meaningful relationships between higher education and communities.

A fantastic few days of learning, sharing and connecting. 🌍

Ollscoil na Gaillimhe | University of Galway

28/08/2026

Leaving Certificate students have received their CAO offers and many are now getting ready to start university.

Beginning higher education is an exciting milestone, and for students with disabilities, knowing what supports are available can make the transition much easier.

Our colleague Catherine Dufficy, from our Disability Support Service, recently spoke to the Irish Farmers Journal about the supports available to students with disabilities at third level, including reasonable accommodations and assistive technology.

If you, a family member or someone you know is preparing to start college this autumn, we encourage you to have a read.

📖 Read the article here:

How to make the most of third level: supports, opportunities and campus life - 26 August 2026

27/08/2026

A mentor. A workplace. A chance to see what's possible. 💙

The Professional Engagement Module (PEM) is a six-week module within our Access Programmes at University of Galway, giving students the opportunity to experience professional workplaces while being supported by mentors from Medtronic and Grant Thornton.

From workplace visits and mentoring to workshops and reflection, PEM helps students build confidence, explore career pathways and gain valuable insights into the world of work.

A huge thank you to everyone at Medtronic and Grant Thornton for the time, encouragement and expertise you share with our students each year. 👏

Thinking about university? There's still time to apply for this year's Access Programmes. Applications close 1 September.

🔗 https://www.universityofgalway.ie/access/entryroutes/accessandfoundationprogrammes/

26/08/2026

📢 Please note: We are currently experiencing a technical issue affecting the control tablet in our Multi-Sensory Room in the Arts Millennium Building.

The room remains open and available to book as normal and can still be used as a quiet, calming space for students. However, some features, including the lighting and display screen controls, are temporarily unavailable while we work to resolve the issue.

We apologise for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience.

The Cubbie, located upstairs from the Access Centre in Áras Uí Chathail, is available to both students and staff on a call-in basis and does not require booking. Users can choose audio and visual programmes based on their preferences and needs.

Details of the Cubbie and Multi-Sensory Room are available here https://www.universityofgalway.ie/access/studentsupports/sensoryspaces/

19/08/2026

Every journey to university is different.

Over the past few months, we've had the privilege of sharing the stories of Access students and graduates who took different paths to higher education.

Their experiences are unique, but they all have something in common: they took that first step.

Whether it was returning to education after time away, overcoming self-doubt or pursuing a lifelong ambition, each story is a reminder that there is more than one route to university.

Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences and inspired others to believe in what's possible.

If you're considering university but don't know where to start, our Access Programmes could be the first step in your own journey.

Applications are open until 1 September.

Find out more at https://www.universityofgalway.ie/access/entryroutes/accessandfoundationprogrammes/

University of Galway

18/08/2026

⏰ Applications for the University of Galway Access Programmes close on 1 September.

If you've been thinking about applying, now is the time.

Our Access Programmes provide an alternative pathway to higher education for school-leavers and mature students from under-represented groups, offering the support, guidance and preparation to help you succeed at university.

If you're unsure whether you're eligible, or have questions about the application process, our team is here to help.

Don't miss your chance to begin your university journey.

Apply now https://www.universityofgalway.ie/access/entryroutes/accessandfoundationprogrammes/

12/08/2026

Starting university this September? Our OT colleagues in Disability Support will once again be running a range of autism and ADHD support programmes during the first semester.

Full details, including who the programmes are for and how to register, will be shared in September. Keep an eye on your email and our social media channels for more information.

For more information on disability supports, visit our website https://www.universityofgalway.ie/disability/

09/08/2026

"'I don't think I can do this'... She said to me, 'Ask yourself what you want.' I said, 'I want to progress.' She said, 'Hold on to that.'"

Starting something new can feel overwhelming.

Mamadou's story is a reminder to focus on your goals and keep moving forward, even when things feel uncertain.

As part of our campaign, we're sharing the experiences of former Access students whose journeys show what's possible with the right support.

The deadline to apply for our Access Programmes is 1 September 2026.

🔗 Find out more: https://www.universityofgalway.ie/access/entryroutes/accessandfoundationprogrammes/

University of Galway

05/08/2026

"I didn't really believe in myself... Just one day I was like, 'Do you know what? Just do it'... by far one of the best things I've ever done so far."

Aryienna's story is one that many people considering a return to education can relate to.

Sometimes the hardest part is taking that first step.

Through our campaign, we're sharing the experiences of former Access students who found the confidence to pursue their goals.

Could your story be next?

Applications for our Access Programmes are now open.

🔗 Find out more at https://www.universityofgalway.ie/access/entryroutes/accessandfoundationprogrammes/

University of Galway

04/08/2026

An Access Programme is more than an alternative route into university.

Our Access & Foundation Programmes are designed to help students prepare academically and personally for university study.

Along the way, students receive guidance and support, develop the skills they need to succeed and, on successful completion, can apply through the CAO for direct entry to undergraduate degree programmes across University of Galway.

Support continues beyond entry, with academic skills, transition guidance and ongoing advice available throughout the student journey.

Find out more about our Access Programmes and how they could help you begin your university journey.

Applications close 1 September.

Apply now https://www.universityofgalway.ie/access/entryroutes/accessandfoundationprogrammes/