Mature applicant late application CAO

bubblypop wrote: »

I have been thinking about studying for a few years now. I was looking at part time courses, but I realise now, full time would be just as good for me, as I work shifts with plenty of time off during the week.

now, I am late for the CAO applications this year, I had hoped I could apply under the late applications.......but anywhere I read says Mature Applicants won't be considered under the late applications.
Has anyone done this? Is there any hope for me to get onto a course this year?

TIA

See that horse? ....... over yonder hill? Its well and bolted and the stable door is swinging in the wind.

you give us no idea of previous education. I think it is a bad idea to go straight to a CAO course cold from employment/unemployment. You would be better served looking at your local IT/university at an "ACCESS Course" in Science or Mixed arts. I am on one at the minute.
Enquire locally, all ones have different criteria for qualification. IF you get an average of 60% you get access to a degree. IF you get high numbers 80% you get access to specialised courses. You can get "Back to Education".

A Leaving Cert Repeat at VTOS can also be good depending on the teachers AND make up of the class.
Best of luck for applying next year. If you are really desperate for a course do your research for any AQA (All qualified Applicants) courses on the CAO website and enquire to the course director if he has an unfilled place for September. I urge caution, ask why there is a low application or what industry thinks of the course. This is a risky choice, its like buying penny shares.

bubblypop wrote: »

I'm in full time employment & would probably get in on leaving cert results & work experience, I did it in 1993.
I have a level 7 diploma but wanted to do a degree.
I could I guess do it part time, I'm not sure if it is much different.
Like I said, I work shifts & can swap & change them around.
Looks like I missed out this year..... Hate having to wait for 18 months now though....
I might look into part time I guess

Is your work experience relevant to the degree you want to do?
have you done anything in between to affirm your commitment to education? I would be looking at taking a course to prove your study skills between level 5&6.
You need to be a year or 6 months to get SpringBoard. If your goals line up that your are progressing from diploma to a degree with relevant experience, you could ask could you join a course mid-way like in second year based on prior learning.
I am guessing you have hit that glass ceiling where you have been told "but you dont have a degree". On my course the ones who started cold dropped out fairly fast (6 weeks-3 months) because they couldnt keep pace.
You cant go to VTOS without 6 months social welfare payments. You would better take an Access Program. My University charges €900 which I think on reflection is great value for money but you are going to be wrecked by the middle of it. It is was 4 days a week the first semester and 3 days the second semester. You also get access to the Maths support center(6 phds/Masters) and the writing center. This could suit you down to the ground.
Also you better have a partner that supports you 100% on it because you are going to need it.