Welcome to NUI Galway!

We are delighted that you have chosen to study with us.

You can be confident that you are joining a dynamic and forward-thinking university, with a distinguished reputation for excellence in teaching, research and student experience.

Read on to find all the information you need for Orientation 2021.

Studying with NUI Galway is one of the best decisions you will ever make. We wish you happiness and success in your journey, and we are here to support you every step of the way. 

What is Orientation?

Orientation 2021 is a blended programme of online and on-campus events. 
It is necessary to attend both the online and in-person activities in your programme. As well as providing key info on your course, Orientation will set you up for success and give you the opportunity to meet staff and students at NUI Galway. 

• Online Orientation
  
  Online Orientation begins on Wednesday, 22 September with a welcome and introduction to your University, College and course. Review the full programme, and make sure to attend key workshops to support your transition into NUI Galway, academically and personally.  
   
• On-Campus Orientation
  
  Your Orientation continues on campus on Saturday and Sunday, 25–26 September. Join us to explore your campus, attend your introductory talks, and learn about the facilities and supports available to you. You can look forward to a jam-packed weekend of engaging and interactive activities. To see the full programme, check your Orientation schedule through the procedure below.  Start planning your weekend now!
   

• Time Slots 
  
  Due to COVID-19 safety measures, your On-Campus Orientation Introductory talk will be divided into specific time slots and are open to students only. See below for instructions on finding information on this. 
  
  Visit Starting University and find your Orientation schedule to take note of the time and venue for your introductory talk and campus tour.  Plan your day around the time of your scheduled talk and tour. 
   

• Accessibility 

  Note the distance between parking and venue, and plan to be in your venue 15 minutes ahead of your assigned time slot. If you have accessibility requirements, please email sec@nuigalway.ie by 5pm on Wednesday, 22 September. 

  In order to ensure your safety and comply with COVID-19 regulations, it is not possible to change your allocated time slot. If you are unsure about your allocation, email sec@nuigalway.ie. This email is for queries related to allocation and accessibility only.  

Where can I find my Orientation schedule? 

On-Campus Orientation: Fáilte Fest

Saturday & Sunday, 25–26 September 2021

As part of your On-Campus Orientation, we have planned an exciting programme of activities designed to let you explore our beautiful campus, get acquainted with key resources and make new friends along the way. You can look forward to live music, juggling, a walking theatre experience, societies events, mindfulness workshops, information sessions, sports pop ups and much more. 

Fáilte Fest is an integral part of your Orientation Programme, so it's important to come along. To see the full programme, check your Orientation schedule through the procedure above. 

All activities comply with COVID-19 regulations, and specific measures have been put in place to protect all students, staff and supporting student ambassadors. 

Many events will take place outdoors. Remember to dress for changeable weather and wear comfortable shoes – it's a big campus! You can bring a packed lunch and enjoy the atmosphere in some of our covered outdoor areas or eat in one of our catering outlets. In accordance with COVID-19 regulations, you will need your COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate to eat indoors.  

Click here for information on parking. Navigate the campus using Find-it.

Give yourself plenty of time to arrive. If you are driving, note that parking is open to all on Saturday and Sunday. On weekdays, you will need a permit and must park in designated student carparks. Don’t get clamped on your first day!  

COVID -19: Need to Know

• Apps 
  These will make your campus life easier:  
  NUI Galway App (iPhone or Android) 
  HSE Covid Tracker 
  Blackboard  
    
• Symptoms 
  How are you feeling? Keep up to date with the latest Health Guidelines on the HSE website, know the COVID-19 symptoms and know what to do if you are feeling ill. You can also stay informed by visiting our alerts page student FAQs.  

• Stay Safe 
  Let's keep each other safe by masking up, washing our hands, sanitising and using coughing and sneezing etiquette.  
  Boxes of wipes are available in all teaching and learning spaces.  We are asking all students to wipe down desks after use. 
   
• Mask 
  You must wear a mask while indoors on campus. Face coverings should also be worn where physical distancing is difficult outdoors.  
  Students who are exempt from wearing a face covering can engage with Disability Support Service to receive a Letter of Exemption.  
   
• Give it Space 
  Give yourself some space by avoiding large crowds and keeping a 2-meter distance (except in teaching settings).  Don't linger in passageways and common spaces.  
  
  Keep time spent in one area to a minimum and limit your travel throughout university buildings where possible. If you want to catch up with friends, think outdoors, not indoors.  
   
• Keep Left 
  Each room/building uses a one-way system. Keep it simple, keep left, and pay attention to signs.   
   
• Vaccines 
  If you haven't yet received your free COVID-19 vaccine, now is your chance! Visit a walk-in centre, register online or book an appointment with a pharmacy, including ours on campus.