IN THE second of my articles directed at those considering applying to the CAO for a place in college in September 2010, I am going to deal with the new Higher Education Access Route, directed at those applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds, writes BRIAN MOONEY

To date, this entry route has only been available to students who were in designated disadvantaged schools. From 2010, all students deemed eligible will be offered places at reduced points to mainstream applicants, and will receive a range of supports while in college.

How does the Higher Education Access Route (Hear) work?

The scheme is run by the seven universities, DIT and the colleges of education.

Applicants must meet a combination of three of six indicators to be eligible, but every applicant must meet the low family income indicator.

Students must apply online through the CAO between November 3rd 2009 and February 1st 2010. Early application is advisable as supporting documentation must be in by April 1st 2010. See accesscollege.ie and cao.ie.

The CAO are also running a helpline on 091-509800 during the application period.

Applicants can also contact the colleges they are interested in attending directly.

Are there reduced points?

Yes, but all Hear students must also meet college matriculation and specific course entry requirements where they apply.

How many places are there for Hear students each year?

On average, five per cent of places (about 1,000) are set aside by each of the colleges each year.

What makes an applicant eligible?

Every applicant must meet the low-income indicator to be considered.

1) Low Income: Is the household income below the higher education grant thresholds (in the relevant year)?

2) Social Welfare: Is the applicant’s mother/father/ guardian in receipt of a means-tested social welfare payment (for a minimum of 26 weeks in the relevant year)?

3) Medical Card: Is the applicant or his/her mother/father/guardian in receipt of a medical card (in date December 31st 2009)?

4) Socio-Economic Grouping (based on occupation and employment status): Is the applicant a member of a group under-represented in higher education?

5) DEIS School: Did the applicant attend a school designated as disadvantaged for the duration of their second level education?

6) Geographical Area: Does the applicant live in an area of concentrated disadvantage?

Additional Benefits of Hear

Students are offered a variety of academic, personal and social supports while studying at third-level including an orientation programme, extra tuition, help with study skills and exam preparation, one-to-one meetings with student advisors, advice regarding grants and scholarships.

How can I apply to Hear?

Students can apply online at the CAO website from November 3rd 2009 until February 1st 2010. All supporting documents must be returned to the CAO no later than April 1st 2010.

Brian Mooney is a guidance counsellor at Oatlands College, Stillorgan, Co Dublin