CAO point increases likely with applications set for record level
Increases expected in growth sectors such as science, technology and business
The overall number of applicants is set to climb above 80,000 for the first time since the CAO system was established almost 40 years ago. Photograph: Cyril Byrne
The number of Central Applications Office applicants is on course to reach the highest level on record this year, with significant points increases likely for popular third-level courses.