How to apply to a full-time degree as a mature student

Applications for full-time undergraduate degrees are made through the Central Applications Office (CAO).

  • The standard application fee is €50, or €35 if you apply online before 20 January
  • The closing date for mature student applications is 1 February

What to include

It is important to complete your CAO application carefully and include all relevant information.

Depending on the course, you may need to provide:

  • Details of your education and qualifications
  • Supporting documents such as certificates or exam results
  • A statement of intent

All supporting documents must be uploaded directly to your CAO application within 10 days of registering or by 10 February.  See cao.ie/upload for further information and instructions on uploading supporting documents.

Do not send documents to University of Galway. Only documents submitted through the CAO will be considered.


Additional assessments

Some courses require additional assessments as part of the application process, for example:

Make sure you register for these assessments by the relevant deadlines.


Before you apply

The CAO handbook includes important guidance for mature applicants and should be read before submitting your application. www.cao.ie