CAO application deadline extended for storm-impacted students 

Announcing the extension for those affected by Storm Éowyn, CAO head of communications Eileen Keleghan said: 'We encourage all those who are in a position to apply to do so without delay'.

The deadline to apply for undergraduate college courses through the Central Applications Office (CAO) is to be extended for students impacted by Storm Éowyn.

Ahead of the normal closing date this Saturday at 5pm, the CAO has confirmed that an exceptional application facility will be made available for applicants who are still experiencing power and internet outages due to Storm Éowyn.

“CAO and higher education institutions have been monitoring the situation closely in relation to power outages and the impact on those who wish to make a CAO application but are currently unable to do so,” said CAO head of communications Eileen Keleghan.

“CAO is arranging to make an exceptional facility available for those impacted by the unprecedented circumstances caused by Storm Éowyn who, as a result, are unable to make a 2025 CAO application by February 1 at 5pm.” 

“In the interim, we encourage all those who are in a position to apply to do so without delay.” 

The facility will be made available from February 1 at 5pm until February 6 at 5pm. Ms Keleghan added: 

For operational reasons, this exceptional facility cannot be extended after 6 February at 5pm.

While significant numbers of homes are without power, CAO application numbers are stronger than for the same period in recent years, according to Ms Keleghan.

Applicants who have already made a CAO application have up to 5pm on February 1 to add, remove, or re-order courses free of charge.

Those applying for a restricted course should make sure to include the course details in their application before this deadline, or by March 1 using the Change of Course Choices facility for a fee of €10.