CAO Top 5 Tips

Practical advice to help you in filling out your CAO form

With over 1,300 CAO courses to choose from, it can be an overwhelming time for students and parents.

Here are our Top Tips, and don't forget to check out CAO's important dates, and student resources (external links), or scroll down to watch CAO's video guide to Change of Mind:

1. Preference, not points

List your courses in order of preference, not based on how many points you think you’ll get.

2. Do what you love

Think about the subjects you enjoy, and are good at – this is a good place to start.

3. Location, location, location

Think about the college location that works well for you and your family.

4. Ask questions

Research your course and college choices with friends, relatives, and by contacting the colleges directly – people will be happy to help.

5. Don't leave any blanks

Fill out Level 6/7 courses and Level 8 courses on your CAO form.  Remember that there are many routes to a qualification - higher certificates, degrees, and honours degrees. ATU’s Progression Routes are a great way to move from one level to the next.

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CAO Change of Mind