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
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
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
‘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: Six take-aways from this year’s listings
Deis has improved progression prospects of students in disadvantaged areas but Ireland is still not an equal-opportunity society for children
Feeder Schools: How to make sense of school progression charts
14,000 of the 2025 Leaving Cert class decided that applying to the CAO was not right for them
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
Education matters: ‘My son is overwhelmed by college and is considering dropping out’
Ask Brian: Combination of new environment and a course that does not fit can leave even the most capable young people adrift
Nursing and midwifery offer careers for those with aptitude, curiosity and compassion
A degree in nursing or midwifery is a foundation for lifelong learning, with job opportunities across diverse settings
‘What funding support is available if I secure a place in university?’
Budget changes to Susi funding include an increase in income threshold for the €500 student contribution grant