CAO 2027 — Irish Undergraduate Applications

Overview

The Central Applications Office (CAO) is the single system for applying to undergraduate courses at Irish universities, institutes of technology and colleges. CAO's own timetable confirms the online facility for 2027 entry opens 5 November 2026; the exact 2027 closing date wasn't yet published at the time of writing, but in every recent cycle the normal closing date has fallen on 1 February, so applicants should expect a similar date and confirm it directly on cao.ie once announced.

About Central Applications Office (Ireland)

The Central Applications Office (CAO) processes undergraduate applications for almost all Irish universities and colleges, letting applicants rank course preferences on one application that CAO matches against available places based on point requirements.

Coverage & Financial Benefits

• Self-funded (Free Fees Initiative covers tuition for eligible EU students)

Requirements & Eligibility

• Leaving Certificate or a recognized equivalent secondary qualification
• Additional tests or interviews for restricted courses such as Medicine (HPAT) or Nursing
• Mature applicants and those applying via DARE/HEAR follow separate supplementary deadlines

Required Documents

How to Apply

1. 1Register on the CAO website and search for eligible undergraduate courses across Irish institutions.
2. 2Rank your course preferences in order, since CAO offers are made based on your ranking and the points you achieve.
3. 3Submit any required supporting documentation and pay the CAO application fee before the relevant deadline.