Student Accommodation
Key Tips
Finding the right place to live is crucial to a happy university experience. We are here to offer support and advice on making the right choice.
The accommodation shortage in Ireland is impacting almost every part of society. President of University of Galway Students’ Union, Sai Gujulla says, “We are facing the worst national housing crisis in recent times. We advise students to be aware of their rights when choosing from different types of accommodation. Digs, for example, are often a cheaper option but may fail to guarantee the security and rights that a tenancy offers. Tenancy rights are one of the most important things when it comes to housing.”
Universities and colleges are an asset to Ireland’s towns, cities and regions. Director of Student Services, John Hannon says, “Students are our future leaders... the people who sustain an area like Galway. They ensure our city is one of Ireland’s most multicultural and vibrant regions.”
Finding student accommodation is one of the most important things you will plan for at university. Here are our top tips for choosing your home this semester.
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• Visit Studentpad
The search portal at nuigstudentpad.ie is the most secure way to search for private student accommodation in Galway. Click here to start your search, or visit the University of Galway website for more information.
You can also search through other websites, however – do not part with any money until you have seen the property in person.
• Get informed on your options
There are options both in the city centre and in residential areas. Learn more about accommodation options across Galway here.
Larger houses generally offer cheaper rooms through house-share. There is also the option of digs/lodgings accommodation, where a student pays a homeowner to live in their home.
• Search smart
Always meet a prospective landlord in the accommodation and keep copies of receipts and correspondence. Ensure that keys fit, and the rental contract is signed, prior to paying a deposit.
Damage of property can lead to a loss of your deposit. Make a list of furniture and appliances with the landlord. If there are any outstanding repairs, ask the landlord to state in writing that they will be repaired.
You can learn more about tenancy safety from the Residential Tenancies Board, An Garda Síochána and Threshold.ie . Learn more about your rights here.
• Budget
It is important to consider your other expenses and work out an accommodation budget.
Here is a useful overview of the cost of living in Galway from Numbeo.
• What is included in the rent?
Most accommodation offers all-inclusive packages. Check whether bills are included in the rent and factor this into your budget.
• Start as early as possible
Start refining your choices now. If you are travelling to Galway from abroad, you can book short-term accommodation for your arrival.
Some CAO places have already been offered; two rounds of offers are yet to be issued. Key dates to keep an eye on are:
> Thursday, 8 September at 2pm (Round One offers )
> Monday, 19 September at 10am (Round Two offers )
.Galway homeowners – room to spare?
Earn up to up to €14,000 tax free
Sign up to Rent-a-Room now and advertise your space to 19,000+ students for free.
The scheme offers a way to earn extra income, while helping a student to find their feet.
Find out more at University of Galway - Rent- a- Room
It is advisable that homeowners create a rental agreement that sets out the expectations of both homeowner and tenant.
What have other homeowners said?
Claire, Maunsells Rd
“It was great to have some company while she was finishing her PhD.”
