Other Educational Pathways

Colleges of Further Education

There are range of college and personal development course available in Colleges of Further Education. There are a range of disability and special education supports attached to these colleges.

• City of Dublin Education and Training Board  
• Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board

Third-level courses

Disability Access Route to Education Scheme (DARE)

DARE is a third-level alternative admissions scheme for school-leavers under the age of 23 as of 1st January 2024 whose disabilities have had a negative impact on their second-level education. 

Applicants to DARE can present with an Irish Leaving Certificate, A-Levels and/or other EU qualifications. DARE offers reduced points places to school leavers who, as a result of having a disability, have experienced additional educational challenges in second-level education.

See here for more information on the disabilities considered under the DARE scheme

See here for the contact details of the Access Offices at participating colleges and universities

For more information on DARE, see their FAQ section here

Higher Education Access Route (HEAR)

The Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) is a higher education admissions scheme for Leaving Certificate students (under 23) whose economic or social background are underrepresented in higher education.

See here for further information on who might be eligible to apply through HEAR 

See here for the contact details of the Access Offices at participating colleges and universities

For more information on HEAR, see their FAQ section here