Topic: PLCs and other routes

Q: I got 385 in my leaving and I didn't get any offers on my CAO as I didn't meet the points for any of the courses (nursing). I have applied late to some PLC courses in pre-nursing but most courses are full. Could you guide me where I can go from here?

A:

Try looking into Community Care PLC. This course can be used as a progression route into nursing Level 8. Phone up Colleges of Further Education that are close by and ask them if they have other courses that also lead to nursing Level 8s in Ireland or the UK.

Q: Got 275 points in my Leaving Cert, however the course (Early Childhood Education) I wish to take requires 290 points. I failed to secure a place in Round one of the CAO Offers. Should I hold out and wait for Round Two or should I apply for a PLC?

A:

Apply for the PLC as this won't affect your CAO offers either way. If the points fall and you get an offer you can accept it then. The only problem will be in getting refunded your deposit from the PLC college. Speak with the PLC about their refunding policy.

Q: Thanks for your help. How quickly should you add a 'vacant' course to your CAO list. We are still looking at options!

A:

Applications that arrive in CAO before 11:00 on a Monday will be processed and considered for offers on the following Thursday.

Add the vacant course after you have researched the course content and layout etc. This will help you make a more informed decision and will help you compare it to other courses of interest. This should help you decide on where you are going to place it on your new preference list.

Q: My son got a DIT course. He had enough points for a Level 8 in Maynooth but had not got the minimum requirements. He is getting a recheck in one or two subjects. If he gets the recheck can he switch to Maynooth? And, if not, would he be able to get into Maynooth next year by doing a PLC course?

A:

If the recheck means that he will then satisfy the NUI Maynooth requirements and he has the necessary cut off points then CAO will issue him an offer.

The majority of courses in NUI Maynooth accept PLC students. I would advise you to speak with the Guidance Counsellor at the PLC college.

Q: I've been offered my first choice and now feel I've made mistake. I achieved a high Leaving Cert result but fear I've made the wrong decision. what are my options now?

A:

You can change your mind and decline. Contact the college to let them know that you will not be taking up a place. This place can then be offered to someone else.

Are you interested in your level 6/7 offer?

Would you be interested in doing a PLC?

Or in taking a year out and reapplying to the CAO?

Get back to us if you need more help.