The Central Applications Office (CAO) has released its 2026 Media Pack ahead of the first round of CAO offers, providing journalists, education websites and other media outlets with a range of data, statistics and resources relating to this year's application and offers process.
The CAO Media Pack 2026 includes information that can support coverage of the Round One offers, alongside accompanying data sheets in Excel format. Draft points chart templates for Level 8 and Level 7/6 courses have also been provided, although these remain subject to change before Round One offers are issued.
The media resources include draft 2026 Points Chart templates covering Level 8 and Level 7/6 courses. These are intended to assist with preparation for coverage of the first round of offers, with final points information to be confirmed as part of the Round One process.
The CAO has also provided the end-of-season and Round One Points Charts for 2025 for Level 8 and Level 7/6 courses. These previous figures can provide useful context when comparing points and course demand across admission cycles, although students should remember that previous points do not determine the points required for a course in a future year.
As part of the 2026 media resources, the CAO is also encouraging publications covering the Round One offers to share its video guide to the Offers and Acceptances Process. The resource provides information on how CAO offers work and what applicants need to know when considering and responding to an offer.
For students receiving a Round One offer, understanding the acceptance process and relevant deadlines is an important part of the next stage of their college application journey. Applicants should use official CAO information when checking their individual offer and acceptance requirements.
The CAO Media Pack 2026, along with additional statistics and resources, will be available through the Media and Statistics section of the official CAO website. The resources are intended to provide access to current information for those reporting on the CAO offers process.
The CAO has also confirmed that its media contact will be available to assist with queries relating to the offer process and interview requests.
CAO points can change from year to year depending on demand for individual courses and the number of places available. Students should therefore avoid assuming that the previous year's points will remain the same for 2026.
Students receiving an offer should carefully review the details provided through the CAO system and follow the instructions and deadlines associated with accepting an offer. The official CAO resources remain the most reliable source of information for individual applicants.
WhichCollege.ie will continue to provide updates and guidance for students as the 2026 CAO offers process progresses, including information on courses, college choices and the next steps after receiving a CAO offer.
