Almost 77,000 CAO applications for third level courses

The CAO has received just under 77,000 applications for places on third level courses for next year.

The figure is slightly lower than applications last year.

76,899 applications were received by the 1 February closing date - a decrease of 1,126 or 1.4% compared to 2023.

First preference applications for Arts courses are down by 6%, while applications for Education courses have fallen by 4%. Applications for ICT courses have also fallen, by 6%.

Interest in Biological and related sciences has risen, with first preference applications in this field up by 4%.

6,103 applications have come from applicants over 23 years of age. This is up 3.4% compared to last year.

10,256 applicants have indicated that they wish to be considered for the Disability Access Route to Education (DARE). This is an increase of 343 from last year.

8,277 applicants have indicated that they wish to be considered for the Higher Education Access Route (HEAR). This is a route that is open to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Applications in this area are down 347 from 2023.

These are interim figures and will change as students refine their choices.

CAO Head of Communications Eileen Keleghan said the majority of CAO applicants would be permitted to use the Change of Mind facility when it opens on 7 May to add, remove or re-order course choices.

Ms Keleghan said late applications are also being accepted up to 5pm on 1 May.