Education Glossary

Central Applications Office - the centralised system for processing applications to undergraduate courses in Irish higher education institutions.

A scoring system based on Leaving Certificate results, calculated from your six best subjects. Points range from 0 to 625, including a possible 25-point bonus for Higher Level Mathematics.

A facility allowing CAO applicants to modify their course choices after the initial application deadline, typically available from early May to 1st July.

Entry to a broad subject area (e.g., Science, Engineering) with specialisation in second or third year.

Disability Access Route to Education - a third-level admissions scheme offering places on reduced points to school-leavers with disabilities.

Direct entry to a specific degree programme from first year, as opposed to general entry where specialisation occurs later.

Higher Education Access Route - a college admissions scheme offering places on reduced points to school-leavers from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

The more challenging level of Leaving Certificate subjects, offering maximum points of 100 per subject (plus 25 bonus for Maths if H6 or above).

The final examination in the Irish secondary school system, typically taken at age 17-18. Results determine CAO points for higher education entry.

A Higher Certificate on the NFQ, typically 2 years duration. Can be a pathway to Level 7 or Level 8 programmes.

An ordinary bachelor's degree on the NFQ, typically 3 years duration. Often offered at Institutes of Technology and Technological Universities.

An honours bachelor's degree on the NFQ, typically 3-4 years duration. Most university courses are Level 8.

An applicant aged 23 or over on 1st January of the year of entry. Mature students may be considered on criteria other than CAO points.

National Framework of Qualifications - Ireland's 10-level system for describing and comparing qualifications. Level 8 is an honours degree, Level 7 is an ordinary degree.

The standard level of Leaving Certificate subjects, with a maximum of 56 points available per subject.

Post Leaving Certificate - a one or two-year further education course providing practical, vocational training. Often used as a pathway to higher education.

Quality and Qualifications Ireland - the state agency responsible for promoting quality and accountability in education and training services.

The first round of CAO offers made in mid-August based on Leaving Certificate results. Applicants receive their highest preference course for which they qualify.

A second round of CAO offers made approximately one week after Round 1, offering places that became available from Round 1 declines.

The final two or three years of secondary school (5th Year, optional Transition Year, and 6th Year), culminating in the Leaving Certificate.

Specific subjects or grades required for entry to particular courses, in addition to minimum CAO points. Common requirements include Higher Level Maths or specific science subjects.

Student Universal Support Ireland - the awarding authority for student grants in Ireland, providing financial support for eligible students.

An optional one-year programme between Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle, offering students opportunities for personal development and work experience.