Thinking of Studying at University of Galway? Pre-Entry Info

HEAR Entry Route

Students who are under the age of 23, residents in the Republic of Ireland (have resided here three of the last five years) and who have been in the care of the state (TUSLA) for any amount of time are eligible for the HEAR entry route. HEAR is a third level alternative admissions scheme for school leavers, resident in the Republic of Ireland, who are underrepresented at Higher Education due to their financial, social, or cultural background. Students who apply through HEAR can be considered for a reduced points place and extra college support (support, induction and access to Financial Aid Fund). Important note: If you are or were a foster/separated child or in the Care of the Health Services Executive/TUSLA, you must supply a letter from TUSLA that details that you are currently in the Care of TUSLA or you had previously been in the Care of the State/HSE. You are not required to meet the other financial, social and cultural indicators (sections 5-7) or to provide proof of being under the income limit. (For further details, see page 10 and page 25 of the HEAR Handbook 2025)

For more information visit http://www.accesscollege.ie/hear/ 

Tip: Applying to HEAR provides access to additional financial supports, even if you don't need reduced points.

DARE Entry Route

DARE is a third level alternative admissions scheme for school-leavers whose disabilities have had a negative impact on their second-level education. Please allow adequate time to get your evidence of disability, as you may not immediately hear back from your appropriate specialist (e.g. CAMHS specialist register, neurologist, etc.) You and your school will also need to complete Section B: The educational impact statement.

For more information visit: http://www.accesscollege.ie/dare 

Note: You can select both DARE and HEAR if they both apply to you - this can benefit you if you are competing for reduced points places.

Note: Even if you do not qualify or apply through DARE, you may still be eligible for support from University of Galway's Disability Support Service (DSS). The DSS is available to students who need supports or reasonable accommodations due to the impact of a disability, ongoing physical or mental health conditions, or a specific learning difficulty. Receiving exam accommodations and supports at third level is easier to access than at second level. Reasonable Accommodations might include in-class supports like notetaking/recording software, exam supports like a smaller venue and additional tie, and specialist support like Assistive Technology. All disability supports are free and confidential. More information on DSS is available here: www.universityofgalway.ie/disability/ 

Access Programmes

Some people with care experience may not feel ready to go straight into their undergraduate studies or may not have received the required points to get into their chosen course. The Access Diploma Programmes are designed to provide a supportive educational environment which prepares students academically and personally for an undergraduate programme at third level. University of Galway currently deliver a number of Access Diploma Programmes for school leavers (22 or under) and Mature Students (23 or above) on campus. Students who successfully complete the one-year course can pursue a university degree at either the University of Galway or ATU. For more information about these programmes please see the guide here or reach out to the Access Centre for further information; call 091 49553 or email access@universityofgalway.ie 

QQI/FET/PLC Entry Routes

A number of undergraduate programmes in University of Galway are open on a competitive basis to students who present with a recognised QQI/FET/PLC qualification.

Please visit here and contact access@universityofgalway.ie to find out more about understanding progression from QQI into University of Galway.