CAO 2021: Checklist to find your perfect college 

If you have a particular type of course in mind, investigate it in all colleges as not all third-level institutions are a good match for all students.

This year, students are missing out on the opportunity to visit college campuses for open days to get a feel for the place and the courses available. These events are busy, with lots of distraction, so apart from unfortunately missing out on the physical experience of being there, virtual open days might just be a better way for students to focus on finding out the specific information that they want.

In response to restrictions, colleges have held virtual open days and have made course presentations available to view on their websites at any time so students and family members can have a look. Colleges are also happy to deal with queries from prospective students at any time during the academic term.