CAO Application Tips and Information

We hope you're getting on well and that the beginning of your 2025 is off to a great start! 

This email contains a bit more on the specifics of your CAO application process. 

Please read on for loads of helpful tips and to see a schedule of our next emails to assist you with both your CAO and Portfolio Submissions! 

Step 1. Apply

To best prepare for the upcoming deadlines, check out these helpful tips to 

make your CAO process a success!!

• Login to your CAO application using the button below

• Choose your courses in order of preference

• List whichever NCAD course is preferred as your highest choice

• Submit by 20th Jan to meet the early applicants deadline or, AT THE VERY LATEST, 5pm on 1st Feb to meet the CAO deadline

**You will then need to submit a portfolio for each course you apply to at NCAD**

See more info about portfolios in the next section. 

Common CAO application FAQs

~Restricted Courses: You must apply by the 1st of Feb in order for your application to be considered.

~Irish Language Exemption: If you have an exemption, you must apply on the NUI Website here. 

~International Non-EU Students: Must apply directly to NCAD on our website here.

~Common Entry: All 1st year students begin courses together and select where they would like to transfer to for year two if they have not applied direct entry.

~Direct Entry: You do have the option to apply as a programme direct entry candidate if you know which programme you are most interested in. You are not required to apply direct entry, however, if you do, you may want to consider also applying to common entry as well. 

  Step 2. Pepare Your Portfolio

Your portfolios for each programme are due by 7th February at 5pm!

Watch our sample portfolio videos here. 

If you have not already, download our portfolio guide here to gain insight to the best way to present your portfolio. 

Check back next week for more specific helpful tips on submitting your portfolio. If you are ready to submit your work click the button below!

                                Schedule for Upcoming Emails

We know this time of year is busy so please refer to the schedule below to know when updates and helpful tips will hit your inbox. 

23rd January: Updates and Portfolio Tips

30th January: Final Application Tips and Portfolio info 

4th February: Final Portfolio Tips

Wishing you all the best,

Admissions at NCAD