University of Galway for Kenyan Students
University of Galway (National University of Ireland) is located in Galway, Ireland. Kenyan students can apply directly to undergraduate programmes. KCSE is accepted as an O-level equivalent. Undergraduate tuition is €17,000–€25,000/year, with a minimum IELTS of 6.5. For Masters entry, a minimum GPA of 2.75/4 (2:2) and IELTS 6.5 is required, with tuition from €13,500–€28,800/year. 2 scholarships are tracked for Kenyan students, including Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships (GOI-IES) and University of Galway Global Excellence Scholarships.
Entry Requirements by Level
Academic Requirements
Foundation Year required via University of Galway Foundation Programme. KCSE accepted as O-level equivalent. Foundation route required for KCSE holders. University of Galway has Africa-specific scholarships.
English Language
IELTS: 6.5+ overall, 6+ per component. TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic also accepted — contact admissions for equivalencies.
Fees & Deadline
Annual tuition: €17,000–€25,000. Application deadline: Rolling — apply by March for September intake.
Academic Requirements
Minimum GPA: 2.75/4 (2:2 UK equivalent). Bachelor's degree in a relevant field required.
English Language
IELTS: 6.5+ overall, 6+ per component. TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic also accepted — contact admissions for equivalencies.
Fees & Deadline
Annual tuition: €13,500–€28,800. Application deadline: Rolling — apply by March for September intake. Decision time: 4–8 weeks.
Academic Requirements
Minimum GPA: 3/4. Master's degree required (or Bachelor's with First Class Honours for some programmes). Fully funded positions available.
Specific Requirements
Research proposal required. Identify and contact a potential supervisor before applying. References from two academic supervisors.
Deadline
Rolling
Documents Required
Available Scholarships
Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships (GOI-IES)
by Irish Government (HEA) · Masters, Phd
Learn more →University of Galway Global Excellence Scholarships
by University of Galway · Masters
Learn more →Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of Galway accept KCSE?
KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education) is accepted as a secondary school qualification for undergraduate foundation entry at University of Galway. For Masters admission, a recognised Kenyan Bachelor's degree with minimum GPA of 2.75/4.0 (2:2 equivalent) is required — secondary school qualifications are not relevant at Masters level.
What GPA is needed for Masters at University of Galway?
University of Galway requires a minimum GPA of 2.75/4.0 (UK 2:2 equivalent) for most Masters programmes. This is accessible to most Kenyan university graduates. Some competitive programmes may require 3.0+. The university offers Africa-specific scholarships.
Are there scholarships for Kenyan students at University of Galway?
Yes. University of Galway offers Africa-specific country scholarships and Global Excellence Scholarships up to €5,000. The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships (GOI-IES) also provides full tuition waiver plus €10,000 stipend for postgraduate students.
Tips for Applying to Galway
University of Galway combines solid academic standing (QS 284) with accessible entry requirements and Africa-specific scholarships — a compelling combination for Kenyan applicants. Galway city is vibrant and student-friendly with living costs noticeably lower than Dublin. The 2.75/4.0 GPA requirement means most graduates of Kenyan universities are competitive. After completing studies, the 24-month Third Level Graduate Programme (Stamp 1G) opens doors to work experience across the EU, valuable for Kenyan graduates building international careers.
Official source: University of Galway ↗Cost of Living in Galway
Galway is more affordable than Dublin. Student accommodation available on campus.