Find out how you can access higher education in Ireland
Find out how you can access higher education in Ireland

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Testimonials

Testimonials The Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) is a higher education admissions scheme for Leaving Certificate students (under 23) whose economic or social background are

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Participating Colleges

Do you have a question for us? All participating colleges have a staff member who would be happy to advise you on how to apply

Application Guides, Resources and Forms

Supporting Documentation for HEAR Below you will find various handbooks, flyers, presentations and example documentation to help you in the process of applying to HEAR. 

Application Timeline

When should I apply? You can apply at cao.ie from 4 November but you should start to review the HEAR Handbook with your parent(s)/guardian(s) as

Application Checklist

Do I have everything I need? You can use this page to work out what types of documents you need to supply.  Remember your supporting

Eligibility Criteria

Who is the HEAR access route for? HEAR is for school leavers under the age of 23 as of 1 January 2026 who are resident

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, simple answers to your questions about HEAR Here you will find the answers to questions we get asked the most about HEAR applications General

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News & Events

News and Events On this page, you can find the details about events we run to connect with people making an application to HEAR. You

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How do I apply?

How do I apply to HEAR? Review the HEAR Handbook and the application timeline with your parent(s)/guardian(s) and/or your school’s Guidance Counsellor. From 5 November

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What is HEAR?

What is HEAR? The Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) is a higher education admissions scheme for Leaving Certificate students (under 23) whose economic or social

Four young people walking together and laughing.

FAQ’s

Quick, simple answers to your questions about DARE Here you will find the answers to questions we get asked the most about DARE applications General