CAO Applications 2027: Early and Late Application Deadlines Explained

Planning your university applications for 2027 in Ireland involves understanding the Central Applications Office (CAO) deadlines. The timing of your application can significantly affect your chances, course options, and even the fees you pay. This guide explains the differences between early and late **CAO applications** to help you make the best strategic choice for your **Irish university application**.

Key CAO Application Deadlines and Fees

The CAO online application system generally opens in early November for the following academic year. There are three main **CAO application periods**, each with different fees and implications for your **higher education in Ireland**:

• Early Online Application: If you apply by mid-January (for example, January 20th for 2026 entry), you benefit from a discounted **CAO application fee** of €35.
• Normal Closing Date: The standard deadline for **CAO applications** is usually February 1st at 5pm. The fee for applying during this period is €50.
• Late Applications: These are accepted from early March (around March 5th) until May 1st at 5pm. Be aware that **late CAO applications** cost more, with a fee of €65.

It is important to remember that all **CAO application fees** are non-refundable.

Advantages of Early CAO Applications

Applying by the normal February 1st deadline offers several important benefits for your **higher education application in Ireland**:

• Access to Restricted Courses: Many programmes, especially in fields like medicine, health sciences, and education, are "**restricted courses**." This means they have special early assessment procedures and cannot be added during the late **CAO application** phase. Applying early ensures you are considered for these sought-after programmes.
• Eligibility for Access Schemes: If you plan to apply through the HEAR (Higher Education Access Route) or DARE (Disability Access Route to Education) schemes, you must apply by the normal February 1st deadline. Most mature applicants also need to apply by this date. Late **CAO applications** for HEAR/DARE are not accepted, and supporting documentation has an even earlier deadline, typically in March.
• Wider Course Availability: Popular programmes can fill up quickly with on-time **CAO applications**. Applying early gives you the best chance of being considered for all available courses before places become limited at **Irish universities**.
• Lower Application Fees: The earliest application period offers the lowest **CAO application fee** of €35, saving you money compared to the standard or late fees.

Risks of Late CAO Applications

Choosing to submit your **CAO application** late comes with significant drawbacks:

• Higher Fees: A **late CAO application** incurs the highest fee of €65, which is €30 more than the early bird rate.
• No Restricted Course Options: If you apply late, you cannot add **restricted courses** to your application. This means many competitive and specialised programmes at **Irish universities** will be out of reach.
• Ineligibility for HEAR/DARE: Late applicants cannot be considered for the HEAR or DARE access schemes.
• Limited Course Choices: Many popular courses may have already reached their capacity by the late **CAO application** stage. This could severely limit your options and force you to consider programmes you are less interested in.

Changing Your CAO Course Preferences

The **Central Applications Office** understands that your mind might change after applying. There are two main ways to amend your **CAO course choices**:

• Paid Amendment Period: An online facility to amend course choices is available between February and March for a €10 fee.
• Free "Change of Mind" Facility: This popular facility typically opens in May and allows you to make changes to your course preferences for free. It usually closes on July 1st. Remember, you can only change your mind for courses that are not restricted.

It is crucial to list your course choices in your genuine order of preference, as the **CAO** will only offer you the highest eligible preference on your list.

Important Advice for CAO Applicants

• Apply Early: To maximise your opportunities for **Irish university admission**, benefit from lower fees, and be considered for all courses and access schemes, apply by the normal February 1st deadline for **CAO Applications 2027**.
• One Application Only: The **CAO** accepts only one application per applicant for a specific entry year and term.
• Check Official Information: Always refer to the official **CAO website** (www.cao.ie) for the most up-to-date and accurate deadlines and information regarding **higher education in Ireland**.

By understanding the **CAO deadlines** and strategically timing your application, you can improve your chances of securing a place in your preferred **Irish university programme** for 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions about CAO Applications

What is the earliest deadline for CAO Applications 2027?

The earliest online application deadline usually offers a discounted fee, typically around mid-January (e.g., January 20th). Applying by this date saves you money and ensures consideration for all course types.

Can I apply for restricted courses during the late CAO application phase?

No, restricted courses cannot be added during the late application phase. These programmes, often in competitive fields like medicine, require early assessment and adherence to the normal February 1st deadline.

What are HEAR and DARE, and how do they relate to CAO deadlines?

HEAR (Higher Education Access Route) and DARE (Disability Access Route to Education) are access schemes for eligible applicants. To be considered for either, you must apply by the normal CAO deadline of February 1st, and supporting documentation has an even earlier deadline, usually in March.

What is the "Change of Mind" facility for CAO applications?

The "Change of Mind" facility allows applicants to amend their course preferences for free, typically opening in May and closing on July 1st. This facility is not available for restricted courses.