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The 1st February 5pm CAO Deadline: Why It Matters More Than You Think

Every year, thousands of Irish students underestimate the importance of the 1st February CAO deadline—and many end up paying more, losing flexibility, or even missing out on opportunities altogether.

Here’s everything you need to know about what happens on 1st February at 5pm, what it costs, and why you should act now.

What is the 1st February 5pm CAO Deadline?

1st February at 5pm is the main CAO early application deadline for Leaving Cert students, mature applicants, HEAR/DARE applicants, and students applying for restricted courses.

It is one of the most important dates in the Irish education calendar.

How Much Does It Cost to Apply?

Before 1st February (5pm)

• €50 to open your CAO account.

Late Application Window

• If you miss this deadline, you must wait for the late application window, which opens:

            From 12 noon on 5th March until 1st May at 5pm

• Late application fee: €65

Late applications are allowed, but you lose flexibility and important early-stage advantages.

Changing Your Course Choices: Key Dates

Before 1st February (5pm)

You can add, remove, and change courses for free.

1st February – 5th May

You cannot amend your course list for free during this period.

5th February – 1st March

You can amend your course list, but it costs €10 per change.

After 5th May

The Change of Mind facility opens (free), allowing you to reorder and adjust courses again.

Special Rules for Certain Applicants

Mature Students

• You should open your CAO account by 1st February to maximise your options.

• Some colleges do accept mature applicants after 1st February, but not all do, and some competitive courses close earlier.

           Opening by 1st February is strongly recommended.

HEAR and DARE Applicants

• You must open your CAO account by 1st February to be eligible for HEAR/DARE.

• Supporting documents and evidence come later, but the account must be opened by this deadline.

Restricted Courses (Very Important)

Restricted courses must be on your CAO by 1st February. You cannot add them later, even during Change of Mind.

Examples include:

• Medicine

• Art and design courses that require a portfolio

• Drama or music courses that require an audition

• Other courses with interviews, assessments, or additional requirements

If a course is restricted, you must list it by 1st February or you cannot apply this year.

What Happens If You Miss 1st February?

If you don’t apply by 1st February:

• You cannot apply early

• You must wait until 5th March to apply late (for €65)

You may miss eligibility for:

• Some mature student routes

• HEAR/DARE schemes

• Restricted courses

• You lose flexibility in changing your choices early in the year

In short: you reduce your options before you even sit the Leaving Cert.

Why You Should Apply Now (Even If You’re Unsure)

Many students delay because they’re unsure about courses. But here’s the key point:

• You are NOT locked in.

• You can change courses later.

• You can reorder preferences with Change of Mind.

• You are not committing to a course—only keeping your options open.

The worst thing you can do is miss the deadline and lose options entirely.

Need Help Choosing Courses?

Choosing a course is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make—but you don’t have to guess.

At FindMyCollegeCourse.ie, our interest tests help you:

Discover courses that match your interests and strengths

Explore options you may never have considered

Make informed CAO choices with confidence

Action Steps for Students

• Open your CAO account before 1st February at 5pm

• Add any restricted courses you are considering

• Use Change of Mind later to refine choices

• Use an interest test or guidance support to research courses

Final Reminder

1st February at 5pm is one of the most important deadlines of your school life.

Missing it doesn’t just cost money—it can cost opportunities.

Apply early. Keep your options open. Future-proof your choices.