Here are some guidelines to ensure you navigate the CAO system.

1. Do not let points dictate your choices. The points attributed to a course DOES NOT mean it’s a better course. It simply means there is more demand than supply for this particular course. Your first preference, regardless of points should get your first choice. The order of your choices is the most important step in the CAO process.
2. It is essential to check the basic subject/grade requirements for each course. Some courses require a grade in honours maths, a particular science subject or a third language.
3. Ensure you know the courses and colleges with restricted entry requirements. Websites such as Qualifax (www.qualifax.ie), CAO (www.cao.ie), Careers Portal (www.careersportal.ie) and the individual college websites will supply this information.
4. Make sure to research not just the course title but also the modules. Do the subjects seem appealing, interesting? What are the progression routes and career paths of previous graduates?
5. Visit the college and check out the facilities. This college and city/town will potentially be your home for 2, 3, 4 years. Does it suit you? Attend the open days, walk the campus, ask questions: the college wants your business and will do everything it can to give you the information you require.
6. Use all 20 choices, remembering to include level 6 and 7 courses.  A stepping stone approach to your qualification might be the best way to ‘test the water’ in terms of your career path. Often, Level 7 courses (which generally have less points) progress seamlessly to a level 8 degree in the final year. Check the add on section of your CAO handbook. Using level 6 or 7 provides you with a backup plan and will reduce your anxiety levels at CAO offer time.
7. Apply early and online, it costs less and you can always change/add courses or change the order of your preferences at a later date. The deadline for the discounted application fee of €25 is the 20 January 2015. The 1 February is the normal closing date for applications. The change of mind facility is available between May 1st and July 1^st.
8. Even if you are 100% satisfied with your courses and preference order. Make sure to recheck all the details before the final deadline, as colleges can remove courses from their prospectus, course codes can change and new courses can be added. This information will be included in the Alert List on the CAO website.
9. Ensure you apply for the DARE/HEAR schemes, if eligible. There are advice clinics during the month of January. Find all of the information here on www.accesscollege.ie
10. Don’t forget to consider PLCs, UCAS (college application system for UK and Northern Ireland – deadline for the majority of courses is October) and, if you’re a confident with your European language, consider other European countries.
11. Check out the courses on offer as part of The Trinity Feasibility study; this is a pilot scheme by Maynooth University which is offering alternative routes to three courses. Admission is not based solely on your CAO points.