Progression to Higher Education
70% of DCFE students received an offer to Higher Education through CAO in 2021.*
National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)
All our courses are accredited by QQI and Industry Awarding Bodies at Levels 5 and 6 of the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).
QQI CAO Points System
DCFE graduates can apply through the CAO to Higher Education degree programmes on the basis of achieving a full award, consisting of 8 modules. A scoring system for QQI awards applies for entry through CAO to Higher Education. QQI will calculate the best score for you based on your QQI results and will forward those results directly to the CAO in July. See scoring scheme for QQI qualifications on www.cao.ie and further details at www.qqi.ie.
Advanced Entry to Higher Education
Graduates who have successfully completed a QQI Level 6 award and have met certain matriculation requirements may be eligible to progress to year two on a number of degree programmes.
Progression for Mature Students
A QQI qualification is an added advantage for those wishing to apply for Higher Education programmes as mature students. Students should be 23 years old on year of application. Consult CAO handbook at www.cao.ie. (*70% based on CAO applications 2021)
