1. The normal closing date for CAO applications is Wednesday 1 February at 5.15pm. The late closing date is Monday 1 May at 5.15pm. However, those applying for restricted courses, or restricted categories of applicant, or applicants for DARE or HEAR must apply by 1 February, because of the assessment procedures and screening that takes place during spring.

2. Precision, particularly when it comes to your personal information such as your name, address, date of birth and school is extremely important as this matches your exam results with you.

3. Don’t disclose your CAO number to anyone unless you want them to act on your behalf – which we presume you don’t! Always quote your CAO application number in any communication with CAO.

4. It is a very good idea to talk to students who are completing or have completed a very similar course to the one you’re interested in, particularly if the course is in a subject area you didn’t get any exposure to in secondary school, such as law.

5. Place your course choices in genuine order of preference. Even the CAO says that “to do otherwise is a grave mistake”. Make sure you fulfil the minimum entry requirements for these courses before including them on your CAO form.

6. If you post something to CAO always obtain a certificate of posting at the post office. It will give you peace of mind, and it’s free!

7. Make sure you get a statement from CAO in May. If you do not get it make sure to contact CAO. CAO says the easiest and most efficient way to contact them is by using the “Contact” facility on the CAO website (www.cao.ie). CAO says you will receive a reply to your query within one working day.

8. Keep an eye on the CAO website, particularly the applicant news page, for regular updates. Watch the important dates and student resource sections where you will find a range of useful resources.

9. The CAO Handbook will be your best friend during this process. If you misplace your own hardback copy, an online copy of it is available on the CAO website.

10. Read all of the documents and instructions that come from CAO carefully.

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