How Are Cao Points Calculated

Calculate your potential CAO points based on your Leaving Certificate results

Comprehensive Guide: How Are CAO Points Calculated?

Understanding the CAO points system is crucial for every Leaving Certificate student in Ireland. This guide explains everything you need to know about how points are calculated, what affects your score, and how to maximize your potential.

1. The Basics of CAO Points

The Central Applications Office (CAO) points system is used to determine eligibility for third-level courses in Ireland. Points are awarded based on your performance in the Leaving Certificate examinations, with higher grades earning more points.

Key Facts:

• Points are awarded for your best 6 subjects
• Higher Level subjects earn more points than Ordinary Level
• Bonus points are available for Higher Level Mathematics
• Minimum entry requirements may apply for specific courses

2. Points Scale for Leaving Certificate Grades

The points system was revised in 2017. Here’s the current scale:

Higher Level	Points	Ordinary Level	Points
H1	100	O1	56
H2	88	O2	46
H3	77	O3	37
H4	66	O4	28
H5	56	O5	20
H6	46	O6	12
H7	37	O7	0
H8	0	O8	0

3. Bonus Points for Higher Level Mathematics

To encourage students to take Higher Level Mathematics, the CAO offers bonus points:

• 25 additional points are awarded if you achieve a H6 or higher in Higher Level Mathematics
• These bonus points are only added if Mathematics is one of your best 6 subjects
• The maximum points possible with the bonus is 625 (600 + 25)

4. How Your Best 6 Subjects Are Selected

The CAO automatically selects your best 6 subjects from your Leaving Certificate results. Here’s how it works:

1. All your subjects are listed with their points
2. The system identifies your single highest scoring subject
3. It then finds your next highest score, and so on until it has 6 subjects
4. If you have Higher Level Mathematics in your top 6, the bonus points are added
5. The total is your CAO points score

5. Common Misconceptions About CAO Points

Many students have incorrect assumptions about how points work:

• Myth: You need to take specific subjects to get into any course
  Reality: While some courses have subject requirements, most just look at your points total
• Myth: Ordinary Level subjects are worthless for points
  Reality: Ordinary Level subjects can contribute valuable points to your total
• Myth: You should drop subjects you’re not good at
  Reality: Having more subjects gives you more options for your best 6
• Myth: The points for a course stay the same every year
  Reality: Points requirements change annually based on demand

6. Historical Trends in CAO Points

Understanding how points have changed over time can help with course selection:

Year	Average Points for Level 8 Courses	Most Competitive Course (Points)	Least Competitive Course (Points)
2020	380	Medicine (743)	General Arts (250)
2021	395	Medicine (742)	General Arts (260)
2022	378	Medicine (740)	General Arts (255)
2023	385	Medicine (738)	General Arts (258)

7. Strategies to Maximize Your CAO Points

Here are practical tips to help you achieve the highest possible points:

1. Subject Selection: Choose subjects you enjoy and are good at – you’re more likely to perform well
2. Level Choice: Be realistic about Higher vs Ordinary Level – sometimes Ordinary can yield more points
3. Balanced Study: Don’t neglect any subject – your 6th best subject might be crucial
4. Exam Technique: Practice past papers to understand marking schemes and time management
5. Health Management: Maintain good sleep, nutrition, and stress management during exam period
6. Bonus Points: If you’re strong in maths, consider Higher Level for the potential 25 point bonus

8. Special Considerations

Some students may be eligible for additional points or alternative entry routes:

• DARE Scheme: Disability Access Route to Education for students with disabilities
• HEAR Scheme: Higher Education Access Route for socio-economically disadvantaged students
• Mature Students: Different application process for those over 23
• FETAC Links: Some PLC courses offer progression routes to degree programs

9. What Happens If You Don’t Get Enough Points?

If your points are below the requirement for your desired course, you have several options:

1. Repeat the Leaving Cert: Focus on improving your grades in key subjects
2. PLC Courses: Post-Leaving Certificate courses can provide alternative routes
3. Apprenticeships: Consider skilled trades with excellent career prospects
4. Re-evaluate Course Choices: Look at similar courses with lower points requirements
5. Gap Year: Take time to gain experience and reconsider your options

10. Official Resources and Further Reading

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult these official sources:

• Central Applications Office (CAO) Website
• Department of Education and Skills
• State Examinations Commission