1. NUI Maynooth Applying to the CAO

2. The College Experience Applying to the CAO Intended to simplify Applications to Third Level Applicants list courses in order of: Preference NOT Points Beware – points alter from year!

3. The College Experience Career ChoiceCareer Choice!! Identify:Identify: Talents /Skills /Interests Talents /Skills /Interests Learning Style / Work to your strengthsLearning Style / Work to your strengths BE INFORMED !BE INFORMED !

4. Facts 45% of employers seek graduates of any discipline Quality of degree is far more important than the subjects It is better to excel in a subject not in great demand than to be average in one that is.

5. Transferable Skills Willingness to Learn Willingness to Learn Commitment Commitment Dependability Dependability Self Motivation Self Motivation Team Work Team Work Communicatio n Communicatio n Cooperation Cooperation Drive/Energy Drive/Energy Self Management Self Management

6. Prior Research is very important Transition from Second to Third Level Identifying Learning Styles / Course Content Career focus / Standard of Qualification Tips for Success!!

7. Application Dates – Paper / Online February 1st Late applications May 1 st Change of Mind Form re-entered by July 1 st The College Experience

8. Costs Paper Feb 1 st €40 May 1 st €80 Online Feb 1 st €30 May1st €60 Change of mind = Nil

9. The College Experience The College Experience Basic Points Statistics Realistic Expectations (8% > 500 points, average = 310 points)

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12. CAO Offer Timetable Can only move up, never down the list Can accept or ignore subsequent offers Vacant Place application (www.cao.ie) Random Selection (Leaving Cert Pts)

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15. CAO Offer Timetable Mature/deferral/R0 offers in early Aug Leaving Certificate results - mid Aug Round One Offers - August 21st,2006 Each list separate. Can accept on-line. Offers each week thereafter

16. Approx 5,000 re-applications to CAO Fees implications – check with Dept. of Education / Relevant Institution

17. The College Experience The College Experience Sources of Information CAO Handbook warning Publications Guidance Counsellors/Teachers

18. The College Experience The College Experience Sources of Information Current students/graduates Open days - College visits Parents/older siblings Internet & General Media