Step 1: Know Yourself First
Before you even open the CAO handbook, take time to understand what genuinely interests you. This isn't about what you think you should study — it's about what makes you curious, energised, and engaged.
- Which school subjects do you look forward to most?
- What do you read, watch, or talk about in your free time?
- What kind of problems do you enjoy solving?
- Do you prefer working with people, data, ideas, or things?
Tools like CourseCompass's Subject Interest Test can help you identify patterns in your interests that you might not spot yourself.
Step 2: Research Career Outcomes
Every course leads somewhere. Before committing, research what graduates actually do. Check:
- Graduate employment rates: Universities publish these annually
- Typical roles: What jobs do graduates get in the first 1-3 years?
- Further study: Does the degree open doors to postgraduate specialisation?
- Industry demand: Are employers actively hiring in this field?
Browse our Career Investigations to explore real career paths in detail, from day-to-day tasks to required qualifications.
Step 3: Look Beyond the Course Title
Two courses with similar names can be very different in practice. Dig into:
- Module lists: What will you actually study in Years 1-4?
- Assessment methods: Exams, continuous assessment, projects, or placements?
- Work placement: Does the course include industry experience?
- Specialisation options: Can you narrow your focus in later years?
- Course structure: Common entry (choose your specialism later) vs direct entry
Step 4: Talk to Real People
Nothing beats hearing from people who've actually done the course. Try to speak with:
- Current students at open days and online forums
- Recent graduates on LinkedIn or through your school's alumni network
- Your guidance counsellor — they've seen hundreds of students make this decision
- Professionals working in fields you're interested in
Step 5: Consider Practical Factors
While passion should drive your choice, practical factors matter too:
- Location: Would you thrive living away from home, or do you need to stay local?
- Cost: Consider accommodation, transport, and course materials
- CAO points: Be realistic about your likely points, but don't undersell yourself
- SUSI grant: Check your eligibility for financial support
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing based on what your friends are doing
- Picking a course solely because of high points — prestige doesn't equal fit
- Ignoring your gut feeling after thorough research
- Not using the Change of Mind facility when new information comes to light
- Forgetting to check minimum subject requirements (not just points)