Entry Requirements &
How to Apply
Application Requirements
Entry is open to graduates who have at least three years of relevant post-graduation business experience. Applications from non-graduates who have a minimum of five years relevant business experience may also be considered. To meet the criteria for relevant experience, prospective candidates should be able to demonstrate experience in areas such as management of projects, leadership of teams or business functions/units, responsibility for budget control, strategic level administration and planning.
All qualifying applicants must attend an interview, after which successful candidates are chosen.
International Applicants: Unfortunately, we do not currently offer a full-time MBA. As this programme is only offered part-time, it does not satisfy the requirements to apply for a visa to study in Ireland, therefore we are not in a position to accept international applications from students who require a study visa. International applicants may be interested in our wide range of full time Business Masters programmes, which you can read more about here: https://www.nuigalway.ie/business-public-policy-law/cairnes/courses/taught/
Application Checklist
Application form (Including references and education history)
Personal statement outlining how the MBA fits into your career objectives
CV (Maximum 3 pages)
Other supporting documentation including, but not limited to, university transcripts and birth certificate
How do I apply?
Application for the MBA programme is made online via our University of Galway Application Portal.
When are applications due?
Applications for September 2026 Entry are now open
We assess applications throughout the year, and we will continue to do this for September 2026 applications until July/August. It is however recommended to submit your application as soon as possible as places are competitive.
**Please note that the MBA intake for 2026 is contingent upon a minimum of 20 students enrolling on the programme.
Fees
MBA Fees AY 2025/2026
EU Fees €16,000 per annum
International Fees €18,000 per annum
** Additional Costs**
Student Levy €140
International Leadership Gateway Programme €1,000
The MBA at University of Galway is an approved programme for the tuition fees tax relief scheme where eligible applicants can claim 20% tax relief capped at a value of €1,000. Please contact your financial adviser for further information
**Fees are subject to annual review**
Key Dates 2025/2026
Semester 2 2025/2026
- Block 1 Thursday 15th & Friday 16th January 2026
- Block 2 Thursday 5th & Friday 6th February 2026
- Block 3 Thursday 26th February & Friday 27th February 2026
- Block 4 Thursday 19th & Friday 20th March 2026
- Block 5 Wednesday 8th, Thursday 9th & Friday 10th April 2026
Semester 1 2026/2027
Semester 2 2026/2027
International Leadership Develment Travel Dates TBC
(L-R) Nicola Reilly - Programme Coordinator, Dr. Orla Lenihan - MBA Programme Director, and Orla Naughton - MBA Programme Manager
(L-R) Nicola Reilly - Programme Coordinator, Maeve O'Sullivan - MBA Programme Director, and Orla Naughton - MBA Programme Manager
We're here to help!
Given the financial, academic and personal
commitments required, pursuing an MBA takes careful consideration. We understand that and we are here to help you on your journey to taking this transformational programme.
