How to Update Your CAO Application Choices 2027
The Central Applications Office (CAO) application process can sometimes feel overwhelming, but a helpful feature called the Change of Mind facility offers applicants crucial flexibility. For those planning to enter higher education in 2027, this facility allows you to adjust your university course preferences even after your initial application has been submitted. This guide will walk you through what the Change of Mind facility is, who is eligible, important dates to remember, how to make changes, and specific updates concerning undergraduate medicine programmes for the 2027 admissions cycle.
What is the CAO Change of Mind Facility?
The CAO Change of Mind facility is a free service that allows applicants to revise their course choices. You can add new courses, remove courses you are no longer interested in, or reorder your existing preferences on both your Level 8 (Honours Degree) and Level 7/6 (Ordinary Degree/Higher Certificate) lists. This means you have the power to fine-tune your application to better reflect your current interests and goals.
You can make as many changes as you wish during the period the facility is open. However, it is vital to remember one key rule: all courses must be listed in your genuine order of preference, with your most desired course placed at number one. When you submit a Change of Mind, it cancels and replaces all previous course choices within the specific category where changes are made. For example, if you change your Level 8 list, it only affects your Level 8 choices, leaving your Level 7/6 list untouched unless you also modify it.
Generally, courses classified as 'restricted' cannot be introduced for the first time through the Change of Mind facility. There are rare exceptions for restricted courses that share assessment procedures already applied for by the initial February 1st deadline.
Eligibility and Important Dates for 2027
Eligibility
To be eligible to use the free CAO Change of Mind facility, you must have submitted an initial CAO application by the February 1st deadline. If you missed this deadline, you may not be able to use the free Change of Mind option.
Key Dates
- CAO Application Opening Date: The facility for CAO applications for 2027 entry opens on November 5th, 2026.
- Change of Mind Opening Date: The Change of Mind facility typically opens in early May. For example, in previous cycles, it has opened around May 5th or 6th.
- Change of Mind Closing Date: The final deadline for submitting any changes to your application is usually July 1st at 5 PM. It is always wise to make any desired changes well before this final deadline.
Cost
There is no fee for using the online Change of Mind facility. This means you can update your choices as often as needed without incurring any additional costs.
How to Make Changes to Your CAO Application
Updating your CAO application through the Change of Mind facility is a straightforward process:
- Log In: Go to the official CAO website and log into your account via the 'My Application' section.
- Navigate: Once logged in, find and click on the 'Change of Mind' section.
- Update Choices: You can now add, remove, or reorder your course preferences on both your Level 8 and Level 7/6 lists. Ensure your most preferred courses are at the top of each list.
- Save Changes: After making your adjustments, click on 'Continue with course changes' or a similar button to save them.
- Confirmation: An acknowledgement email will be sent to you once your changes have been successfully submitted. It is crucial to check this email carefully to ensure all your updates are correct.
- Verify: Always go back to the 'My Application' facility on the CAO website to double-check that your updated course choices are accurately reflected there.
Important Changes for Medicine Programmes in 2027
For those aspiring to study undergraduate medicine in 2027, significant changes to the points calculation system will take effect. These adjustments are important to understand as they could impact your application strategy:
- Leaving Certificate Scores: There will be no moderation of Leaving Certificate scores that are above 550 points.
- HPAT Weighting: The HPAT (Health Professions Admission Test) will be weighted to a maximum of 150 points.
These changes mean that the overall calculation for entry into undergraduate medicine programmes will be different from previous years. It is advisable for prospective medicine students to familiarise themselves thoroughly with these new criteria.
Tips for Using the Change of Mind Facility
- Genuine Preference: Always list courses in your true order of preference. Do not guess what you might get or what you think you should apply for.
- Check and Confirm: After every change, check your acknowledgement email and verify the updates in your 'My Application' account.
- Understand Restricted Courses: Be aware that you generally cannot add restricted courses via Change of Mind. Plan carefully for these in your initial application.
- Don't Delay: While you can make multiple changes, avoid leaving your final adjustments until the last minute before the July 1st deadline. Technical issues or internet problems could prevent you from submitting on time.
Conclusion
The CAO Change of Mind facility is a valuable and free resource for applicants aiming for 2027 university entry. It provides the flexibility needed to ensure your application accurately reflects your academic ambitions and preferences. By understanding the eligibility criteria, key dates, the process of making changes, and particularly the new points system for undergraduate medicine, you can effectively use this facility to enhance your chances of securing your desired university place.
