✓ CAO Mature Applicant Checklist
1. Check Application Requirements
Confirm with the Admissions Office of your chosen institution whether you need to apply through CAO or directly.
Contact details: www.cao.ie/hei
Read the CAO Handbook: www.cao.ie/handbook
Visit HEI websites and prospectuses for entry requirements and course details.
2. Create CAO Application
Complete your online application at www.cao.ie/apply
Register before 1 February at 5 pm to avoid restrictions.
3. Select Relevant Qualifications and Assessment Categories
In the CAO form, select all applicable qualification categories (e.g., Mature Applicant, Leaving Certificate, QQI FET/FETAC, Higher Education, etc.).
You may select multiple categories if relevant.
4. Enter Course Choices
Enter course choices before 1 February at 5 pm.
List courses in genuine order of preference.
For restrictions: www.cao.ie/restrictions For changing choices: www.cao.ie/com
5. Complete Mature Applicant Section
Log in to your CAO account via ‘My Application’
Complete the Mature Applicant section before 1 March at 5 pm.
Help available at: www.cao.ie/mature
6. Provide Qualification Evidence
Submit evidence of listed qualifications within 10 days of applying or by 10 February at 5 pm.
Do not list qualifications without providing evidence.
You may upload or post your documents to CAO. Do not do both. For upload instructions go to www.cao.ie/upload or for instructions on posting your documents go to www.cao.ie/post