What to do now you have received your CAO offer?
Today Leaving Cert students around Ireland found out if they received a CAO offer for the course of their choice.
Applicants have been able to view their offers since 6am this morning (21 August).
What is the next step?
If you received a CAO offer in Round 1 for your first choice, congratulations!
If you didn’t get your first-choice offer, but you did receive an offer, congratulations!
You must accept or decline your offer by 5.15pm on 28 August.
Remember, if you do not accept this offer, it will lapse. Once your offer is accepted, it is time to start planning your next educational adventure. Connect with the student’s union of your new college through social media, as these channels can be great sources of information on accommodation, student welfare, student finance, etc.
If you feel disappointed and think you deserved a better result, you may have a case to get one or more Leaving Certificate papers rechecked.
Should I accept my CAO offer?
If you didn’t get your first preference and you’re unsure whether to accept your second choice or lower offer, you have some time before you make your final decision.
Also, see below this useful infographic from CAO.
There are also other routes you can take to further your education.
School leavers can bypass college and the CAO points system and go directly to study CPA and begin their career as a professional accountant. Students can work and train simultaneously, allowing them to earn money and complete their training while they pursue their qualification. Many students complete their Leaving Certificate and go on to do a degree in Accounting and Finance or Business Studies in college and then study for their professional accountancy qualification. However as CPA Ireland recognises that college is not a viable option for everyone, they provide a professional accountancy qualification that is open to school leavers once they complete their Leaving Certificate, subject to meeting course entry requirements.