CAO Change Of Mind. The CAO (Central Applications Office) Change of Mind facility offers a critical opportunity for applicants to amend their course choices. Ensuring that your preferences are accurate is essential for securing your desired course. This article provides a comprehensive guide to using the Change of Mind facility, including key dates, steps, restrictions, and tips for making effective changes.
Change of Mind Facility
The Change of Mind facility allows applicants to modify their course choices before the final deadline. This opportunity ensures that applicants can update their preferences based on new information or changed circumstances.
Steps To Use the Change of Mind Facility
Logging In
- Access the Portal: Go to the “CAO” website and log in via the ‘My Application’ facility.
- Navigate to Course Choices: Select the option to add or change course choices.
Making Changes
- Enter New Choices: List your preferred courses in order of preference in the ‘New List’ section.
- Save Changes: Click ‘Continue with course changes’ to save your new preferences.
- Confirmation: Check the acknowledgement email sent to the email address provided during your application to ensure all changes have been recorded correctly.
Verifying Changes
- Check Email: Look for an email confirmation of your changes.
- Review Online: Log in to your account to confirm that all details are updated accurately.
Restrictions And Exceptions
Restricted Courses
- Not Allowed: You cannot add restricted courses through the Change of Mind facility.
- Exception: You may add a restricted course if it shares the same assessment procedures with a course applied for by February 1, 2024. Consult the relevant HEI (Higher Education Institution) for guidance.
Mature Applicants
- Restrictions Apply: HEIs may impose additional restrictions for mature applicants. Contact individual Admissions Offices for specific information.
Exceptional Closing Date Details
For current undergraduate students wishing to change to a different course within the same HEI or apply to another HEI, an exceptional late application deadline is available:
- Deadline: July 22, 2024, at 17:00
- Note: This applies only to changes not related to repeating the same course. For entry to courses in specific institutions, follow the institution’s procedures.
Tips For Effective Course Changes
- Order of Preference: Always list courses in genuine order of preference. This maximizes your chances of receiving an offer for a course you truly want.
- Research Thoroughly: Explore the courses thoroughly. Visit campuses, contact colleges, and review course content and requirements.
- Consult with Advisors: Discuss your choices with trusted friends, family members, or guidance counselors.
- Avoid Assumptions: Base your changes on thorough research rather than assumptions about your exam performance.
Additional Resources
- CareersPortal Course Finder: Find courses based on various factors.
- Leaving Cert Points Calculator: Estimate your points based on your exam performance.
- Leaving Cert What’s Next Guide: Navigate post-exam planning and future steps.
- New Courses for 2024: Check for newly added courses in the CourseFinder.
- Career Explorer: Explore various career options and paths.
Key Dates For The Change Of Mind Facility
- Opening Date: May 7, 2024, at 12:00 noon
- Closing Date: July 1, 2024, at 17:00
- Exceptional Closing Date: July 22, 2024, at 17:00 (for specific cases)
FAQs about Change Of Mind
Q1)When Can I Add/Edit My Course Choices?
Ans:- You can typically add or edit your course choices during specific periods set by the application authority. For most institutions, this is done during a “Change of Mind” period, which usually occurs after initial applications have been submitted but before final decisions are made. Check the specific deadlines and timelines provided by the institution you are applying to.
Q2)What Is The Change Of Mind Facility?
Ans:- The Change of Mind facility allows applicants to change their course choices after their initial application has been submitted. This period is usually provided by educational institutions to allow applicants to reconsider and adjust their choices based on new information or personal reflection.
Q3)What Are The Restrictions?
Ans:-
- Deadlines: Changes can only be made within the specified Change of Mind period.
- Eligibility: Only applicants who have submitted an initial application can use this facility.
- Number of Changes: There might be a limit on the number of times you can change your choices.
- Course Availability: Some courses may fill up quickly, and changes might not be possible for courses that have already reached their capacity.
Q4)Do I Have To Fill Out The Level 7/6 List And The Level 8 List?
Ans:- This depends on the specific application system you are using. Some systems require applicants to list both Level 7/6 (ordinary degrees or certificates) and Level 8 (honours degrees or higher) courses separately. Ensure you follow the guidelines provided by the institution or application authority.
Q5)How Do I Add Courses?
Ans:- To add courses:
- Log in to your application portal.
- Navigate to the section for course choices.
- Select the option to add or change courses.
- Enter the new course codes or names as required.
- Save and confirm your changes.Should I have received an email after making changes to my courses?
Ans:- Typically, you should receive an email confirmation after making changes to your course choices. If you do not receive an email, check your application portal for confirmation and contact the admissions office if necessary.
Q6)I Made An Exceptional Late Application (22nd July application) How Do I Submit A Change Of Mind?
Ans:- For late applications, the ability to submit a Change of Mind may be restricted or unavailable. Contact the admissions office directly to inquire about your options for changing your course choices.
Q7)The Change Of Mind Deadline Has Passed, Is There Any Way That I Can Change My Course Choices Now?
Ans:- Once the Change of Mind deadline has passed, changing your course choices is generally not allowed. However, some institutions may allow exceptions in special circumstances. Contact the admissions office to explain your situation and see if an exception can be made.
Q7)Can I Change My Course Choices Using The Available Places Facility?
Ans:- Some application systems have an Available Places facility where courses with remaining spots are listed. You may be able to change your course choices to these available places even after the Change of Mind deadline, depending on the institution’s policies.
Q8)How Should I List My Courses/What Is Genuine Order Of Preference?
Ans:- List your courses in the genuine order of preference, starting with the course you most want to attend. This ensures that if you meet the requirements for multiple courses, you are offered a place in the one you prefer the most.
Q9)Can I Still Use Change Of Mind If I Have Clicked The ‘Confirm’ Box On My Application?
Ans:- If you have clicked the ‘Confirm’ box, it usually means you have finalized your application. However, during the Change of Mind period, you should still be able to make changes. If you encounter any issues, contact the admissions office for assistance.
Conclusion
The CAO Change of Mind facility is a valuable opportunity to refine your course choices before the final deadline. By following the outlined steps and tips, you can ensure your preferences are correctly updated and aligned with your academic and career goals. Remember, the final deadline for submitting changes is July 1, 2024, at 17:00, with an exceptional deadline for specific cases on July 22, 2024.