An increased number of mature students have gained college places this year through the Central Applications Office (CAO).
This year saw a rise of almost 1,000 mature applicants seeking entry to higher education through the CAO, as compared with last year's figure.
Of the 8,807 mature applications for 2007, 5,224 have so far been offered college or university places, with the remainder expected to be offered places in the coming days.
The increase in mature applicants who are successful in gaining their chosen course was welcomed by the Higher Education Equality Unit, which has led a campaign for improved access to third-level education for mature students.
The latest figures also show a decline in the number of mature applicants for courses in computing, science and engineering. The majority of mature students have applied for disciplines in arts and humanities.
Labour TD Joanna Tuffy yesterday called on the Government to work with colleges to provide return-to-learning courses aimed at adults who want qualifications in scientific and technological disciplines.