Top Tips for Applying to the CAO

Whether you’re a school-leaver, mature student, QQI applicant, or returning to education, this guide will help you complete your CAO application confidently and correctly.

Start with Research

Before filling out your CAO application, take time to explore your options. Think about:

• What subjects or careers interest you
• What kind of learning suits you (practical, creative, academic, hands-on)
• The type of course you want: Level 8 (Honours Degree) or Level 6/7 (Higher Certificate or Ordinary Degree)

Consult the TU Dublin Prospectus for detailed course content, career pathways, and entry requirements. Attend as many open days as you can; they are a great opportunity to meet with students and staff on the course and to see the college for yourself. 

Understand How the CAO Works

The CAO (Central Applications Office) is the system used to apply for almost all full-time undergraduate courses in Ireland, including those at TU Dublin. For further information, see the How CAO offers are issued guide published by the CAO.

Remember

• You can apply for up to 20 courses: 10 at Level 8 and 10 at Level 6/7. See our progression page for further information.
• You only receive one offer - i.e. the highest course on your list for which you meet the requirements.
• Apply early – CAO Applications open in November and the standard deadline is 1 February.

Check specific dates on the CAO Website.

Choose Courses Carefully

• Check each course’s entry requirements (e.g. Leaving Cert subjects, portfolio, interview, or minimum grades).
• Put your courses in order of preference on the CAO; bearing in mind that points change from year to year.
• Only include courses you’d genuinely like to do.
• Complete the application in full, remembering to include Level 6/7 options.
• Read the CAO "How to list CAO Course Choices" guide.

Choose the Right Entry Route Based on Your Background

There are several ways to apply to TU Dublin through the CAO. Here’s what you need to know depending on your situation:

• School Leavers: Apply using your Leaving Cert results through the standard CAO process
• QQI/FET Applicants: You can apply based on your QQI Level 5 or 6 qualification. Some courses have places set aside for QQI applicants
• Mature Applicants: If you’re 23 or older on 1 January, you can apply as a mature applicant. You may be assessed based on your life experience, work, or additional learning
• Advanced Entry Applicants: If you’ve already completed some third-level education, you may apply to enter Year 2 or 3 of a relevant course. Use the CAO’s Advanced Entry section
• Access Applicants: If you meet certain social or financial criteria, you can apply through HEAR and the Access TU Dublin for reduced points and extra supports
• Applicants with Disabilities: You can apply for support or entry consideration through the DARE (Disability Access Route to Education) scheme
• Elite Athletes and Performers: TU Dublin offers special supports and scholarships through our Elite Athlete Programme and other creative routes

Remember to check the specific minimum entry requirements for the courses you are applying to. 

Keep Track of Deadlines

When applying to the CAO, deadlines matter. Here are some of the key dates to remember:

• 1 February – Standard CAO application deadline
• 1 March – Deadline for supporting documents (e.g. for DARE, HEAR)
• Early May – Change of Mind opens
• 1 July – Final Change of Mind deadline
• August – CAO offers are issued

It is also important to consider deadlines for any Portfolios, Interviews or Tests that may be relevant to your preferred courses. 

Check specific dates on the CAO Website.

Double-Check Before You Submit

Before submitting your CAO application:

• Make sure all course codes are correct
• Confirm your personal details and contact information
• Upload or send any required documents (especially if you're applying through Access, QQI, DARE, or as a mature applicant)
• Save your CAO number and login details

Get Support

You don’t have to figure everything out alone. 

• Talk to your guidance counsellor or education support staff
• Contact our Admissions Office for advice on entry routes or requirements
• Attend TU Dublin Open Days and Online Information sessions
• Read the CAO "Do's & Dont's" guide. 
• Practice using the CAO’s Demo Application before submitting the real one.