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 Jan 2024) and completion of the Learner Detail Form (from August 2024).

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.