How do I apply?
- Review the DARE Handbook and the application timeline with your parent(s)/guardian(s) and/or your school’s Guidance Counsellor.
- Check criteria that are relevant to your disability.
- By 1 March 2025 Complete the online application form through www.cao.ie .You can follow the helpful video below to guide you through the process.
- Gather together your completed Educational Impact Statement AND the relevant Evidence of Disability.
- By 15 March 2025: Submit copies of supporting documents to CAO by post.
Please note, when completing your DARE application form through cao.ie. we recommend doing so by using a desktop or laptop rather than using a smartphone.
When should I apply?
Follow this link for all of the key dates and deadlines for your applications
What proof of disability do I need?
Click here for full details of how to apply under each DARE category.
Provide a background on your educational experience
Click here for full details of how to complete your Educational Impact Statement.
Application Guides, Resources and Forms
Check out this page for printable resources to help support your DARE application
Have you applied to AND were eligible for DARE last year?
If you were eligible for DARE in 2023 and wish to reapply for a college place, click here to find out how to carry forward your eligibility
Terms and Conditions of Applications
Click here for the terms and conditions for your DARE application
News and Events
September Updates for DARE and HEAR
🎒 Back to School, Higher Options & Website Updates – September 2025 September is here, which means it’s back-to-school time for students across the country
Leaving Certificate 2025 Results and CAO Offers Information for DARE and HEAR Applicants.
Congratulations to the Leaving Cert Class of 2025! 🎉 On behalf of Access College, we want to offer a huge congratulations to all students receiving
DARE HEAR OUTCOMES FOR 2025 APPLICANTS HAVE BEEN RELEASED.
The outcomes for DARE and HEAR applications were released on Tuesday, the 24th of June 2025. If You Were Deemed Eligible as a DARE or