Eligibility for courses:
Level 5 Courses:
- Typically, candidates should be over 16 years of age in the January preceeding the commencement of the academic year and have successfully completed the Leaving Certificate (or equivalent).
- Applicants may also have completed a Level 4 major award (or equivalent qualification).
Level 6 Courses:
- A prerequisite for Level 6 courses is the successful completion of a related Level 5 major award (or equivalent qualification).
- Some programs might have additional requirements related to specific subjects or skills.
Application Process:
- Applicants are encouraged to gather all necessary information from our Open Course Sessions, the information video, our website, or by visiting the college before enrolling.
- In certain cases, follow-up may be necessary to ensure criteria are met, especially regarding language competency for specific courses, or for under-23 applicants without a Leaving Certificate or equivalent.
Mature Students (Over 23 Years Old):
- Mature students are welcome to apply for all courses. Those possessing relevant skills, experience or interest in the area are encouraged to apply.
- The same application and enrolment procedures apply to mature students.
Garda Vetting (Clearance):
- Necessary for courses involving access to children or vulnerable adults.
- Applicants must obtain Garda Vetting Clearance prior to work experience.
- Applicants who have lived outside Ireland/Northern Ireland must provide international police clearance from relevant authorities.
- Information on applying for Garda Vetting will be provided upon course induction.
Course Enrolment:
- Availability is limited, and waiting lists may apply for some courses.
- Course content and availability are subject to change based on enrolment, resources, and Awarding Body requirements.
- Offers for course places are conditional and subject to specific criteria in some courses.
Registration:
- Only fully registered students are entitled to attend classes and activities at the College.
- Registration must be completed as advised by the College, making payment of €50 Acceptance Fee (from January) and completion of the Learner Detail Form (from August).
Learning Support Services
Applying for Support:
- Students with disabilities or specific learning needs are encouraged to apply for support services.
- Applications can be made prior to or during the academic year, with early applications recommended for timely assistance.
- Documentation verifying the nature of the disability is required to facilitate the support process.
Contacting Support Services:
- Reach out to our support services office via email at support@dcfe.ie for guidance and application details.
- You will be scheduled for an appointment to discuss your unique support needs and complete the necessary forms.
- Be aware of the closing dates for learning support applications to ensure your application is considered in a timely manner.
Language Competency Assessment
Purpose of Assessment:
- For students whose first language is not English, a language competency test is available to evaluate their English proficiency.
- This assessment aids in determining the suitability of a course relative to the student’s language skills.
Benefits of the Assessment:
- Helps in providing tailored language support.
- Assists in guiding students to the appropriate course level, ensuring a positive learning experience.
How to Opt-In:
- If you wish to take the language competency test, please email support@dcfe.ie or contact our admissions office.
- The results of this assessment will be used to offer personalised advice and course recommendations.
