Find out more about applying to college generally, and about our admission process.

The Central Applications Office (CAO) processes applications for undergraduate courses in Irish Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Decisions on admissions to undergraduate courses are made by the HEIs who instruct CAO to make offers to successful candidates.

Direct Entry courses (also referred to as Non-CAO Entry courses) are college courses where an application is made directly to the particular college, rather than through the CAO process.

CCT College Dublin offers accredited degree programmes as Direct Entry courses. The courses are fee paying so they do not use the competitive ‘Points System’ to select students.

Springboard+ is a Government initiative offering free and heavily subsidised courses at certificate, degree, and masters level leading to qualifications in areas where there are employment opportunities in the economy. These areas include ICT, engineering, green skills, manufacturing and construction, among many others. The courses are flexible and part-time. Click on “Search Courses” to view available courses.

Springboard+ is co-funded by the Government of Ireland, via the National Training Fund, and the European Union.

Human Capital Initiative offers free and discounted full-time courses in areas such as ICT and Data Analytics, Engineering, Manufacturing and Construction. A number of courses are also available that address green skills and climate change. Courses are at graduate and postgraduate diploma level.

Human Capital Initiative Pillar 1 is funded by the National Training Fund.

Knowing more about the application and admissions process will enable you to prepare, and think about whether you require any support or adjustments through this process e.g. extra time for interviews. If you have any concerns about the admissions process and would like to talk about your options for support, you can contact the EDI Officer (edi@cct.ie).

• Check if you need to apply through CAO, Springboard+ or if you apply directly to CCT College Dublin
• Find out what evidence you need to support your application; examples of work, a portfolio or a personal statement, CV for example (see advice on writing a personal statement).
• Check when you should apply. Make a note of important deadline dates.
• Consider if you will require any adjustments or support during the interview or selection event; contact the EDI Officer if you feel that this would be useful for you.
• Once you have received an unconditional offer, consider registering with the EDI Office.

• What is the application process for your chosen course?
• What do you need to submit to support your application?
• Do you need to write a personal statement or create a CV?
• Do you need to provide evidence in the form of a portfolio of work?
• When are the deadlines for applications?
• When should you expect to hear if your application has been successful?