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Finding the right place to live is crucial to a happy university experience. University of Galway are there 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 housing crisis in recent times. When choosing from different types of accommodation, tenancy rights are the most important thing.”

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 a region like Galway. They ensure our city is one of Ireland’s most multicultural and vibrant regions.”

Finding student accommodation is the most important thing you will need to plan for whilst at university. We have put together our top tips for choosing your home.

• Visit nuigstudentpad.ie
  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 NUI 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.
  Most rental properties are houses with 3–5 bedrooms, and larger houses generally offer cheaper rooms through house-share. There is also the option of digs/community accommodation, where a student pays a homeowner for accommodation.
• Search smart
  Always meet a prospective landlord in the accommodation to be rented and keep copies of receipts and correspondence. Ensure that keys fit, and rental contract is signed, prior to paying a deposit.
  Get a receipt for the deposit paid and rent in advance. Damage of property is a regular reason for losing a 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 threhsold.ie and learn more about your rights here.
• Budget
  What you can afford to spend on accommodation each month is important – consider your other expenses.
  Here is a useful link to an overview of the cost of living in Galway.
  
• What is included in the rent?
  Most accommodation offers all-inclusive packages. Check whether bills are included in the rent and factor it 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?

Would you like to earn up to up to €14,000 tax free?

Sign up for the rent-a-room scheme now and advertise your space to 19,000+ students for free.

The rent-a-room scheme offers a way to earn extra income, while helping a student to find their feet.

Find out more at NUI Galway Rent-a-Room.

It is advisable to create a rental agreement that sets out the expectations of both homeowner and tenant.

What have other homeowners said?

Claire, Maunsells Rd | Homeowner

“It was great to have some company while she was finishing her PhD.”

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