CAO
CAO and Leaving Cert news
‘The Leaving Cert mocks were a wake-up call for my son’
For a student who has focused more on sport than study, realising they are not match fit in an academic sense can be sobering
Post-Leaving Certificate courses play growing role as routes to work and higher education
Exploring PLC options is now considerably more straightforward in Co Dublin, thanks to a clearer, unified application system
Making the most of (and surviving) the Leaving Cert mock exams
Time for parents to provide reassurance and acknowledge work the child has done
What are the key factors to be aware of when filling out a CAO application form?
Every year some students miss out on round-one offers due to errors, omissions or failure to spot an important message
Here’s a study guide for the final months before the Leaving Cert exams
We got expert tips from two of Ireland’s leading study websites and their learning experts
Forget the CAO: Here are some alternatives to college
Apprenticeships, traineeships and PLCs provide alternative routes to exciting, well-paid careers
College Choice: Essential reading for Leaving Certificate students
We hope there’s something for every Leaving Cert student (and parent!) in today’s College Choice guide in The Irish Times
What should you be thinking about when deciding on a third-level college?
Students should think beyond their course choices towards career options, experts advise
Key dates for 2026 CAO applications: from early-bird applications to Leaving Cert appeals
Here is every important date in the CAO calendar along with important links, reminders and information about fees
Six things you need to consider before making your third-level and further education choices
CAO applicants for 2026 will need to register before February 1st at 5pm
‘My daughter, along with most of her classmates, seem laser-focused on going to UCD or Trinity’
She could sit down with her guidance counsellor in school and explore how her interests and learning style align with the available options
Feeder Schools 2025: What you need to know about latest data for Irish schools
Data is compiled from State Examinations Commission Leaving Cert sits list and lists provided by higher education institutions
Third-level progression rates: Why do some schools score more than 100%?
It seems mathematically impossible, but the percentage number accounts for several different elements
‘My son has no idea what he wants to do after college, so how real is the CAO cut-off point?’
The February 1st initial deadline is in many ways an administrative carryover from a bygone era
Education matters: Places on medical and paramedical degrees in Ulster University
Ask Brian: There are places open to Republic of Ireland students, but applications must be submitted to UCAS by January 14th
Which CAO programmes must be listed due to portfolio, interview or performance criteria?
Ask Brian: All you need to know about the restricted application courses for 2026
‘My son is considering a trade or apprenticeship option, but should he make a CAO application too?’
Ask Brian: Now is the peak season for conversations among sixth years about their next steps
Where CAO points are likely to settle in 2026
Ask Brian: Gradual reduction in grade enhancement begun this year will continue for the next four or five years
Leaving Cert 2026: What do grading changes mean for students?
Points required for competitive courses are likely to remain high despite overall drop in grades
CAO applications: How can I help my son complete the process properly?
Any correspondence from the Central Applications Office must be dealt with promptly
My daughter got her top CAO choice after a recheck. I’m not sure she should take it
There are financial implications parents should be aware of in these circumstances
My son plans to drop higher-level Irish for the Leaving Cert. Is this a good idea?
Many students mistakenly believe they can score more CAO points by dropping ‘difficult’ subjects
How will Hpat changes affect my chances of securing medicine?
Reforms come into effect in 2027 which look set to raise CAO entry points
Have we finally reached peak CAO points pressure?
A host of high-points courses such as dentistry, veterinary and pharmacy are set to be expanded
Is it too late to apply for a college grant?
Thousands of students with household incomes of up to €100,000 are missing out on college grants
Higher Options Expo can help you map your career path
Higher Options will have many people to help you decide what to pursue after the Leaving Cert
Going to third level a big step for students with additional needs, but there are supports
Practical and financial help and guidance are available for students with a disability or other additional needs
Don’t miss these speakers at Higher Options 2025
From Abigail Ruth Freeman on science and IT to Artur Banaszkiewicz on studying in Poland, there are many to choose from, so plan ahead
How to make the most of your time at Higher Options
There’s a right and a not-so-right way to approach your visit to the RDS
Why fifth and sixth year students need to know what Higher Options is
Higher Options, Ireland’s largest education expo, is back in Dublin from Wednesday to Friday, September 17th to 19th.
CAO: Reprieve for some students who lost out on favoured course
Some applicants have been offered preferred courses after initially losing out on random selection
Your questions answered: but first, is the Higher Options event for you?
For those considering further and higher education, the expo has information that could shape the path ahead
Life after school: Next stage options from those who have chosen different paths
Whether you choose a PLC, an apprenticeship or the straight-to-college route, there’s more than one way to take the next step
The guidance counsellor: ‘I think we’re overly educated, but perhaps not skilled enough’
Remaining focused on CAO points means overlooking ‘wonderful’ alternatives such as apprenticeships and tertiary degrees
