A big congratulations to all the students who got their Leaving Cert results today! Even if they’re not quite what your teen expected, it’s still a milestone in your teen’s life and a good reason to be proud of themselves and their achievement.

If you are not sure what to do next, here are some places to get some further assistance and advice:

There is a Leaving Cert Helpline to assist school-leavers, and their parents/guardians – 1 800 265 165.

The Helpline is provided courtesy of the National Parents’ Council in association with the Irish Independent, the Department Of Education and supported by the GAA. The Institute of Guidance Counsellors are employed to support NPCPP qualified guidance counsellors to give advice and support to both students and their parents. The 2022 NPCPP Leaving Cert Helpline is open each day from 2pm to 8pm between 2nd – 14th September.

Haven’t received an offer for the course you wanted? CAO Vacant Places may have something for you.

After Round One, the Available Place facility operates on a weekly schedule of applications, offers and acceptances.

Applications that arrive in CAO before 11:00 on a Monday will be processed and considered by the HEIs for offers on the following Thursday. An offer posted on a Thursday will be available to view on the CAO website the following day.

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If you’re thinking of taking a year out, or looking for a way to ensure you get the course you really want next year, then a Post Leaving Cert course may be for you.

Careersportal.ie has useful tools and information as well as a course finder that you can search by keyword, subject area, college and area.

The inevitable rush for student accommodation will begin when the CAO offers come out – see what’s available near your chosen college on College Cribs.

If your teen is going to study in another city, consider asking your close network if they know of someone sending their teen to your town to do a room swap.

Visit www.susi.ie and HEA.ie to familiarise yourself with all relevant information about student grants and to read the Guidance Notes for completing an application.