The CAO usually opens for applications in early November, and the main deadline is usually 1 February. That feels far away, but Christmas tests and the mocks fill most of that time. A little work now saves a lot of panic later.
November: open the account
- Register on cao.ie and keep your CAO number and password somewhere safe.
- There is usually a lower fee for applying online before 20 January, so there is no reason to wait for the final week.
- Applying early does not lock you in. You can still add or change courses later.
December: make a long list
- Write down every course that interests you, even loosely. Aim for 15 to 20.
- For each one, check the minimum entry requirements on the college website: Maths, Irish, a language, a science.
- Look at last year's points as a rough guide, not a promise. Points change every year.
January: order your choices
- Put courses in the order you genuinely want them, not in order of points. The CAO offers you the highest choice you qualify for.
- Use all ten places on each list where you can. An empty place helps nobody.
- Talk it through with your guidance counsellor and your parents before you finalise.
Remember the change of mind
After the main deadline there is usually a "change of mind" period in late spring, when you can reorder or swap courses. Most students use it once they know how the year has gone.
Points come from the work you do now
The months between November and June decide most of your points. If one or two subjects are holding your total back, focused help now gives you the most room to improve. You can find a Leaving Cert tutor on GrindSpot, online or near you.
Dates and fees can change each year. Always check cao.ie for the current deadlines.
