The introduction of 25 bonus points for Higher Level Maths has resulted in a rise in college points this year. Figures from the CAO show there has been an increase in points for science, engineering, technology, business and agriculture courses.
Almost 50,000 students who sat the Leaving Certificate in June have been given college offers today. The first round offers have been available on the CAO.ie website since 6am this morning.
There has been a rise in points for science, engineering, technology, business and agriculture courses. The awarding of 25 bonus points for Higher Level Maths is one the reasons behind the increases.
Points are down in Arts, teaching and nursing courses.
Students wishing to accept their first round offers must do so by 5.15pm on Monday August 26th.
Students or parents seeking advice can freephone the National Parents Council Post Primary helpline which is being manned by 8 guidance counsellors on 1800-265-165.
Students are reminded not to panic & that they have options
Jackie O'Callaghan from the National Parents Council is urging students who did not get what the wanted not to panic.
"There are so many options out there for them - not even down to your second and third choice, but even down to the second round offers, third round offers and then you have vacant places" she said.
"So all those things are hugely important; and if you ring somebody who really know what they're talking about today, they will be able to guide you through what is best for you based on the information you give them" she added.
While the President of the Institute of Guidance Counsellors Gerry Flynn says although students have now left school, they can still seek guidance from their school counsellors also.
"There's also a national helpline which is manned by guidance counselors - so if anyone wants to contact that they can get expert advice as well and the number there is 1800-265-165" he said.
"For instance, if they didn't receive an offer and they thought they had the points for a particular course, what they might do...for instance that they want to defer their place for 12 months - and also advice on courses for which there will be vacant places" he added.
The number of students focusing on science based college courses appears to be rising.
According to Irish based Recruitment Agency 'Sigmar', indications are that science, maths and IT programmes along with degrees in the biotechnology industry are recording increases.
Barry Rudden is Director of Sigmar Recruitment and has been looking at the employment opportunities for students.
