Updated: 12 November 2026 · SpecTa Education
Can Indonesian high school graduates enter the BSc Science at University of Galway directly?
Yes. For the 2026 intake, Indonesian high school (SMA/SMU/MA) graduates can directly enter the BSc Science at University of Galway if they meet the academic requirement—generally an average of 7.0/10 or higher in science subjects—and IELTS Academic 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0). If these requirements are not met, the International Foundation Year is available.
University of Galway assesses Indonesian high school qualifications (SMA/SMU/MA) for direct entry to the BSc Science, subject to programme-specific grade and English requirements for the 2026 intake.
Key facts
| Indonesian high school qualification | Direct entry to BSc Science if requirements met (University assesses SMA/SMU/MA) |
|---|---|
| Minimum SMA average | 7.0–8.0 / 10 (science subjects) (Check per programme; generally 7.0) |
| IELTS Academic requirement | 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) (Equivalent TOEFL/PTE may be accepted) |
| BSc Science duration | 4 years (Some programmes may differ) |
| Alternative pathway | International Foundation Year (1 year) (If academic grades are not sufficient) |
| Application method | University of Galway international portal (Not CAO for international students) |
Direct entry requirements for Indonesian SMA graduates
The University of Galway considers the Indonesian SMA/SMU/MA as a qualification for direct entry to the BSc Science. For 2026, the typical minimum academic requirement is an average of 7.0/10 or higher in science subjects, though some programmes may require up to 8.0/10. Applicants must present a final high school transcript in English. Programme-specific grades should be checked before applying.
- Recognised qualification: SMA/SMU/MA (final transcript)
- Typical minimum: 7.0/10 in science subjects; some programmes require 8.0/10
- English requirement: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, no band below 6.0
English language requirement
For direct entry, international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency. The standard requirement for the BSc Science is IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no individual band below 6.0. Equivalent TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic scores may be accepted, but acceptance varies by programme and test version. Check the University of Galway English language requirements page for the exact accepted tests and scores for 2026.
- IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, no band below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic equivalents may be accepted
International Foundation Year as an alternative pathway
If an Indonesian high school graduate does not meet the direct academic entry requirement, the University of Galway offers an International Foundation Year (1 year). Successful completion of this pathway can lead to progression to the BSc Science. The foundation year is the official route when SMA grades are below the required threshold, but it adds one year of study and tuition.
- Duration: 1 year
- Purpose: bridge academic gap
- Progression: to BSc Science subject to conditions
How to apply for the 2026 intake
Indonesian applicants must apply through the University of Galway's international application portal, not the CAO system used by Irish/EU applicants. Prepare a scan of your SMA/SMU/MA transcript and certificate (with certified English translation), English test score, passport, and any other documents requested. Check the University of Galway international students page for application deadlines for the 2026 intake, as these can close earlier than Irish/EU deadlines.
- Portal: University of Galway international application portal
- Not CAO for international applicants
- Documents: transcript, English test, passport
- Deadlines vary; check for 2026
Key takeaways
- Indonesian SMA/SMU/MA graduates can enter BSc Science directly for 2026 if science average is 7.0/10 or higher and IELTS Academic 6.5 is met.
- If grades fall short, International Foundation Year (1 year) is the official alternative route.
- Apply via the University of Galway international portal, not CAO, and check programme-specific grade requirements and deadlines.
- Equivalent English tests such as TOEFL/PTE may be accepted; confirm accepted scores with the university.
Related questions
What if my SMA average is 7.0 but not in science subjects?
The requirement is based on science subjects. If your science average is below the required threshold, you may need to take the International Foundation Year.
Can I use TOEFL or PTE instead of IELTS?
Yes, equivalent TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic scores may be accepted, but you should confirm the exact accepted test and minimum score with the University of Galway for 2026.
How long is the BSc Science at University of Galway?
Most BSc Science programmes are 4 years, but some specific programmes may have a different duration. Check the chosen programme page.
Do I need to apply through CAO?
No. International applicants, including Indonesians, must use the University of Galway international application portal, not the CAO system used by Irish/EU applicants.
What documents do I need for the application?
You typically need your final SMA/SMU/MA transcript and certificate with certified English translation, English test score, passport, and any other documents requested by the university.