The CAO Change of Mind deadline is Saturday, July 1st, at 5:15pm.
Around half of the country’s Leaving Certificate students used the change-of-mind facility on the CAO last year to add, remove or re-order their college choices. So, don’t be afraid to have a rethink.
Here are five things to remember when completing your CAO Change Of Mind form online:
Tip 1: Get the order right
Choose courses in your genuine order of preference, based on your own career aspirations Jot the answers to the following questions down; What area would you like to work in? Do you like working with people, outdoors/indoors? What is your favourite Leaving Cert subject? What are your strengths and areas for improvement?
Tip 2: Don’t guess what points you will get
Place your courses in order of preference on the form. Picture the CAO form as your wish list. Never list your choices in points order. Points levels change from year to year due to supply and demand for places. Bear in mind that a course’s points level is not necessarily an accurate reflection of its quality.
Tip 3: Do your Research
It is vital that you understand the course content in your selected course. Examine the subjects/modules you’ll actually be studying. Too often, students select a course which looks appealing on paper – only to find the course material is very different to what they had originally imagined.
Tip 4: Talk it over
Consult with the key adults in your life – your parents/guardians or guidance counsellor. If school has finished, it is likely that your career guidance teacher will be happy to meet you or to discuss your choices over the phone.
Tip 5: Double check your work
Ensure everything you put down on your form correct – and that there are no mistakes. Remember, you can change your CAO form as many times as needed but only up until July 1st at 5:15pm. After this date, no more changes can be made.