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HEAR Applicants

Find the information you need on how students from socio-economic and disadvantaged groups (HEAR) can apply to study at DkIT.

We extend a warm and supportive welcome to such students and will do everything we can to help you fulfil your potential.

Dundalk Institute of Technology confirms its commitment to develop, maintain and support a comprehensive access policy predicated on a respect for the values of equality, inclusion and diversity. DkIT is a participating Institute in The Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) which is an admissions scheme for school leavers from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds who have completed the Irish Leaving Certificate.


Eligibility to apply for HEAR:

HEAR is for school leavers under the age of 23 as of 1 January 2020 who are resident in the Republic of Ireland. Mature and FET (Further Education and Training) students have their own admissions routes and should contact college admissions offices for more information. Applications to HEAR can only be made online through the CAO.

For more detailed information on Hear, please visit www.accesscollege.ie/hear/making-an-application/eligibility-indicators/


How to Apply for HEAR:

How to Apply to HEAR 2023 from CAO on Vimeo.

HEAR Application Video by Section

1. What is HEAR? What colleges participate in HEAR?

Watch Video on CAO

2. What are the benefits of HEAR?

Watch Video on CAO

3. HEAR Indicators

This video covers the 6 HEAR indicators.

Watch Video on CAO

4. Making a HEAR Application

A Step-by Step Guide: HEAR Application form Sections 1-7

This video covers how to apply to HEAR and how to complete the following sections

of the online HEAR application form:

Section 1: Address

Section 2: Second level school

Section 3: Medical Card

Section 4: In Care of the State

Section 5: Family Dependents

Section 6: Socio Economic Group (SEG)

Section 7: Family Financial Circumstances and supporting documents

Watch Video on CAO

5. Carrying Forward Eligibility

This video explains how to carry forward HEAR eligibility from 2021 to 2022

Watch Video on CAO

6. Top Tips to Avoid Mistakes

Watch Video on CAO

7. What happens after I complete my application?

Watch Video on CAO

Additional Information:

For additional information about The Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) please see the links below:

Questions about HEAR?

  • Eileen Lynch
  • Access Officer