Receiving your CAO Round 1 offers is one of the most exciting and nerve-wracking moments for students applying to higher education in Ireland. Understanding how the process works, what your options are, and how to respond will help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary stress.
Round 1 offers are the first set of course offers issued by the CAO based on the points you achieved in your Leaving Certificate, QQI, or other eligible qualifications. These offers are calculated according to the points system, with students receiving the highest preference course they are eligible for.
Even if you meet the points for multiple courses, you will only receive one offer in Round 1—typically the course highest on your preference list that your points meet or exceed.
CAO Round 1 offers are usually released in mid-August, a few weeks after Leaving Certificate results. The exact date is confirmed annually by the CAO.
Offers are sent directly to your CAO account via email and post. It is essential to check your account promptly and carefully.
Once you receive your offer, you will see:
The course you’ve been offered
The institution
Any specific conditions (such as portfolio submissions or additional requirements)
It’s important to read the details carefully. Some courses may have extra requirements even if you meet the points threshold.
You generally have three options once you get your offer:
Accept Your Offer – Confirm your place by following the instructions on your CAO account. This is usually done online and involves a deadline, so don’t delay.
Defer Your Offer – Some courses allow deferral to the next academic year, usually for valid reasons such as gap years or medical circumstances. Check with the college directly.
Reject the Offer / Wait for Higher Preferences – If your Round 1 offer is not your first choice, you can decline it and hope to receive an offer for a higher-preference course in later rounds. However, this carries risk—you may not get another offer in the next round.
Check Your Options Quickly: Deadlines are strict. Make sure you know the exact date to respond.
Consider All Factors: Location, course content, career prospects, and fees should all influence your decision, not just points.
Keep Backup Plans in Mind: If your first-choice course isn’t offered, identify realistic alternatives in later rounds.
Understand Progression Routes: Some courses allow you to progress to higher-level degrees (Level 7 to Level 8), which might influence your decision.
Students who do not receive an offer in Round 1, or who are hoping for a higher-preference course, will have opportunities in Round 2 and subsequent offer rounds. Each round allows students to accept new offers, potentially upgrading their placement to a preferred course if places are available.
Being informed, organised, and realistic is key during this period. Round 1 is just the beginning of your journey toward higher education, and making thoughtful choices now can set you up for a successful year ahead.
