Forget the CAO: Here are some alternatives to college
Apprenticeships, traineeships and PLCs provide alternative routes to exciting, well-paid careers
CAO
CAO and Leaving Cert news
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
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
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
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
CAO issues second round offers to more than 3,000 students
Those who have received an offer today will have until Wednesday, September 10th at 3pm to accept it
Flying the nest: advice for students (and parents) on heading to college
Heading to college is a big step, and while most of the young adults preparing to fly the nest will be excited at the prospect of independence, parents might have some concerns about what this will mean
Advice for parents, from parents, when a child heads off to college
‘Flying the nest is the natural next step ... we weren’t going to be all maudlin and upset around them’
Home or away? How Irish and EU colleges compare
While studying in Ireland has its appeals, going abroad offers the experience of a different culture or language and fees are often lower
Ten universities around Europe that offer courses through English
Irish students are entitled to study at any university in the EU under the same conditions as nationals
Crosswords & Puzzles
Crosswords & puzzles to keep you challenged and entertained
Common Ground
How does a post-Brexit world shape the identity and relationship of these islands
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