The University of Galway has officially released its academic calendar for the 2025–2026 academic year. This schedule provides a complete overview of term dates, exam periods, and holidays for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Designed for academic planning, it helps students, faculty, and staff organize their year efficiently — balancing learning, assessments, and rest.
The University of Galway’s calendar is carefully structured to maintain an effective academic rhythm. It divides the year into two semesters, each including distinct teaching, study, and examination periods, along with scheduled holidays and breaks.
Semester 1 (Autumn Semester 2025)
- Orientation for First-Year Students: Monday 8 September – Friday 12 September 2025
- Start of Teaching (All Years): Monday 8 September 2025
- End of Teaching (All Years): Friday 28 November 2025
- Study Week: Monday 1 December – Friday 5 December 2025
- Semester 1 Examinations: Monday 8 December – Friday 19 December 2025
- Christmas Holidays Begin: Saturday 20 December 2025
Semester 1 sets the academic tone for the year. It begins with Orientation Week for new students, from 8 to 12 September, offering introductions to campus life, academic systems, and university resources. During this time, students can familiarize themselves with their faculties, library systems, societies, and student support services.
Teaching for first-year and continuing students begins on Monday 8 September, continuing for 11–12 weeks. This consistent structure ensures all students experience comprehensive teaching before the study and assessment periods.
A Study Week follows from 1 to 5 December, providing valuable time for revision, group work, and academic consultation before exams. Semester 1 exams take place from 8 to 19 December, marking the close of the first academic term.
After exams, the Christmas holidays begin on 20 December, offering students time to relax and celebrate after an intensive term of learning and assessment.
Semester 2 (Spring Semester 2026)
- Start of Teaching: Monday 12 January 2026
- End of Teaching: Thursday 2 April 2026
- Easter Break: Friday 3 April – Monday 6 April 2026
- Field Trips: Tuesday 7 April – Friday 10 April 2026
- Study Week: Monday 13 April – Friday 17 April 2026
- Semester 2 Examinations: Tuesday 21 April – Friday 8 May 2026
The Spring Semester starts after the Christmas break, with classes beginning on 12 January 2026. Over twelve weeks, students engage in coursework, seminars, research projects, and practical activities.
The semester concludes with Easter holidays from Good Friday, 3 April, to Easter Monday, 6 April 2026, followed by Field Trip Week from 7 to 10 April, giving many courses the chance to apply learning in real-world or lab settings.
A Study Week runs from 13 to 17 April, allowing students to prepare for exams beginning 21 April and ending 8 May 2026. This carefully balanced structure ensures that students have enough time for both reflection and revision before final assessments.
Repeat and Autumn Examinations 2026
Students who need to retake modules or improve their grades can participate in the Autumn Repeat Examinations, scheduled from Tuesday 4 August to Friday 14 August 2026. This period allows learners to catch up on missed opportunities or reassessments, helping them progress confidently into the next academic year.
Official Holidays and Breaks 2025–2026
The University of Galway observes national and academic holidays throughout the year. Students should note the following bank and public holidays, during which no teaching or exams take place:
- Monday 27 October 2025 – October Bank Holiday
- Monday 2 February 2026 – Public Holiday
- Tuesday 17 March 2026 – St. Patrick’s Day
- Friday 3 April – Monday 6 April 2026 – Easter Holidays
- Monday 4 May 2026 – May Bank Holiday
- Monday 1 June 2026 – June Bank Holiday
- Monday 3 August 2026 – August Bank Holiday
These holidays align with Ireland’s national schedule, allowing students to plan travel, family visits, or personal downtime around their academic responsibilities.
Student Advice: Making the Most of the Academic Year
The University of Galway’s 2025–2026 schedule offers plenty of opportunities — not just for academic success but also for personal and professional growth. Here are some tips for students to get the most out of their year:
1. Engage During Orientation
Orientation Week is your launchpad. Meet fellow students, join societies, and explore campus resources early. Understanding how university systems work (e.g., Blackboard, library access, student portal) will make your semester smoother.
2. Plan Around Study Weeks
The Study Weeks in December and April are critical. Use them to revise, seek feedback, and organize group study sessions. Avoid last-minute cramming — instead, create a structured study schedule.
3. Balance Coursework and Well-Being
University life is fast-paced, so balance is key. Take breaks, maintain social connections, and use student services if needed. The University of Galway offers free counseling, academic support, and career guidance.
4. Utilize the Field Trip and Break Periods
For many programs, field trips (April 7–10) are practical extensions of learning. Engage actively — these experiences can build your portfolio, network, and real-world understanding.
5. Prepare Early for Examinations
Semester exams often come quickly after teaching ends. Begin revision early, practice past papers, and discuss difficult topics with lecturers or peers.
6. Take Advantage of Galway’s Culture
As a vibrant student city, Galway offers cultural festivals, live music, and scenic experiences. Participate in community life — it complements academic growth and helps build valuable life experiences.
7. Plan for Reassessment Opportunities
If you need to retake a module, don’t be discouraged. The August repeat session gives a fair opportunity to improve grades and progress academically.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When does the University of Galway academic year 2025–2026 start?
The year begins on Monday 8 September 2025 with the start of teaching and orientation for first-year students.
2. When do first-year classes begin?
First-year students begin teaching on 15 September 2025, following a week of orientation activities.
3. How long does teaching last each semester?
Semester 1 includes 11–12 weeks of teaching, while Semester 2 includes 12 weeks of instruction before exams.
4. When are the main examination periods?
- Semester 1 Exams: 8–19 December 2025
- Semester 2 Exams: 21 April – 8 May 2026
- Autumn Repeats: 4–14 August 2026
5. When is the Easter break in 2026?
The Easter holidays run from Good Friday, 3 April, to Easter Monday, 6 April 2026.
6. Are there any public holidays during the teaching period?
Yes, including 27 October 2025 (October Bank Holiday), 2 February 2026, 17 March 2026, 4 May 2026, 1 June 2026, and 3 August 2026.
7. What is Study Week used for?
Study Weeks — in December 2025 and April 2026 — are designed for exam preparation, project work, and academic advising. Students are encouraged to use this time effectively for revision.
8. What if I miss an exam?
Students who miss an exam due to valid reasons may apply for reassessment during the August repeat session. It’s essential to contact your college office promptly with documentation.
9. When does the academic year end?
The 2025–2026 academic year concludes on 14 August 2026 after the completion of repeat examinations.
Conclusion
The University of Galway Academic Calendar 2025–2026 is designed to foster a structured, balanced, and rewarding academic experience. With clear term dates, assessment periods, and dedicated study breaks, students can plan ahead and achieve both academic and personal success.
From orientation to final exams, the year promises ample opportunities for learning, collaboration, and growth in one of Ireland’s most vibrant university environments.