The points needed for third-level courses are expected to increase when CAO offers come out this afternoon.
Over 84,000 people applied to the CAO this year – up from 78,000 last year.
Meanwhile Leaving Cert points hit another record high this year after the Class of 2021 was offered a dual system of accredited grades and traditional exams.
In all, the points achieved in this year’s Leaving Cert were up 7.6% on pre-pandemic levels.
The Government has added an extra 4,600 places in popular courses like nursing and veterinary medicine to try and ease the demand; however, guidance counsellor Betty McLoughlin said some students face disappointment today.
“The points are determined by the grades that the students get, by the number of places available on a course and by the number of applicants for that place,” she said.
“It will be revealed at 2pm; it may cause upset for some students and if you are upset, if you are unsure, please do not hesitate to contact the national parents’ helpline.”
You can speak to a qualified guidance counsellor by calling the National Parents Council helpline for free on 1800 265 165.
Ms McLaughlin had this advice for those waiting to receive their offer.
“Don’t panic, have your CAO number ready and have your passport ready so you can log on and see what choice you have been offered,” she said.
“Follow the simple instructions and you won’t lose your place.”
She said the deadline for accepting any offer is 3pm on September 13th.
If an offer is not accepted by then, it will be offered to someone else.
