Handbook

2025

Guiding you through

your HEAR application #HEAR25

accesscollege.ie
 HEAR Application Timeline
CAO applications open from 5 November 2024 at 12 noon.
From 1. Review the HEAR Handbook with your parent(s)/guardian(s).
November 2. Make a CAO application at www.cao.ie.
2024 3. Fill in the online HEAR Application at www.cao.ie.
4. Gather your supporting documents.
Remember, they can take several weeks to issue.

By 1 February
Apply to CAO by 17:00 on 1 February.
2025

1. Complete all elements of the online HEAR Application

By 1 March Form by 17:00 on 1 March.
2025 2. Gather all supporting documents relevant to your application.

1. Submit copies of supporting documents to HEAR

Applications 2025, CAO, Tower House, Eglinton Street,
Galway by 15 March.
2. Make sure your copies are clear and can be easily read.
Please number each page and write your CAO application
number and the date on the front of each page. Faxed/
By 15 March emailed documents are not accepted.
2025 3. Keep the original of all documents and obtain a
certificate of posting from An Post every time you
post supporting documents to CAO.
4. For confirmation that the documents you posted arrived
safely in CAO, enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard
with details of the documents you have submitted.
April – June
2025 HEAR Application Assessment.
In late June
2025 Applicants notified of outcome of HEAR Application.

End June/
Early July 2025 HEAR Review and Appeals Application.

Leaving Certificate exam results.

August CAO offers.
2025 Successful HEAR Applicants notified.
Accept CAO offer.
Accept HEAR offer of extra college supports.
Late August/Early
September Attend mandatory HEAR orientation programme.
2025

i Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

Colleges that take part in HEAR
Institution Telephone Email Website

Atlantic Technological University

Donegal Campus (074) 918 6170 [email protected] www.atu.ie
Galway Campus (091) 742 598 hear.galwaymayo
Sligo Campus @atu.ie
(071) 915 5433 [email protected]
Dublin City University (01) 700 8868 [email protected] www.dcu.ie/access
(01) 700 9213
Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, (01) 239 4628 [email protected] www.iadt.ie
Design and Technology
Dundalk Institute of Technology (042) 937 0236 [email protected] www.dkit.ie
Marino Institute of Education (01) 805 7752 [email protected] www.mie.ie/access
Mary Immaculate College (061) 204 510 AccessOffice@ www.mic.ul.ie
mic.ul.ie
Maynooth University (01) 708 4600 [email protected] www.maynoothuniversity.ie/
hear
Munster Technological University
Cork Campus (021) 433 5138 [email protected] www.mtu.ie/access/hear
Kerry Campus (066) 714 5636 [email protected]
National College of Art & Design (01) 636 4200 [email protected] www.ncad.ie/students/
support-services/
National College of Ireland (01) 449 8500 [email protected] www.ncirl.ie
Pontifical University, Maynooth (01) 708 4600 [email protected] www.mu.ie/hear
RCSI University of Medicine (01) 402 2228 [email protected] www.rcsi.ie/study
& Health Sciences
St Angela’s College, Sligo (071) 919 5575 [email protected] www.stangelas.ie
South East Technological University
Carlow and Wexford Campus (059) 917 5600 [email protected] www.setu.ie/study
Waterford Campus (051) 306 192 [email protected]
Technological University Dublin (01) 220 8440 [email protected] www.tudublin.ie/hear
Technological University of the Shannon
Athlone Campus (090) 646 8123 [email protected] www.tus.ie
Limerick Campus (061) 293 130 [email protected]
Trinity College Dublin (01) 896 3696 [email protected] www.tcd.ie/trinityaccess
University College Cork (021) 490 4806 [email protected] www.ucc.ie/hear
University College Dublin (01) 716 7123 [email protected] www.ucd.ie/all
University of Galway (091) 493 553 hear@university www.universityofgalway.ie/
ofgalway.ie access-students
University of Limerick (061) 234 122 [email protected] www.ul.ie/access

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 ii

 Contents
HEAR Application Timeline........................................................................................................ i
Colleges that take part in HEAR............................................................................................. ii
The Higher Education Access Route explained......................................................... 1-4
Completing your HEAR Application......................................................................................5
Section 1 Address........................................................................................................................7
Section 2 Second Level School.............................................................................................8
Section 3 Medical Card/GP Visit Card................................................................................9
Section 4 Children in Care of the State/TUSLA........................................................... 10
Section 5 Family Dependants.............................................................................................. 11
Section 6 Socio-Economic Group..................................................................................... 12
Section 7 Family Financial Circumstances..................................................................... 16
Section 8 Carrying forward HEAR eligibility from 2024 to 2025........................... 18
Supporting Documents Section........................................................................................ 19
à Statement of Liability/Self-Assessment Letter – Chapter 4.................. 19
à Department of Social Protection Form................................................. 23
à Lump Sum Redundancy/Retirement Payments................................... 24
à TUSLA Letter for Children in Care........................................................ 25
Terms and Conditions of Application.............................................................. 26
Next Steps in the Application Process........................................................... 27
Department of Social Protection Request for Information Form.................... 29

iii Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

 What is HEAR
HEAR is a third level alternative admissions scheme for school leavers, resident
in the Republic of Ireland, who are under represented at Higher Education due to
their socio-economic background.
HEAR has been set up by a number of colleges and universities, as evidence
shows that long-term poverty can have a negative effect on how well a student
does at school and whether they go on to college.
HEAR applicants must meet a range of financial, social and cultural indicators
to be considered for a reduced points place and extra college support.

What HEAR is not

HEAR is not your maintenance grant (SUSI grant). The maintenance grant is the
main source of financial assistance available from the Irish State for students in
full-time Post Leaving Certificate Courses (PLCs) and full-time higher education
undergraduate courses. HEAR is an admissions scheme to help students who may
not traditionally go on to third level.

Who can apply to HEAR?

HEAR is for school leavers under the age of 23 as of 1 January 2025 who are resident
in the Republic of Ireland.
Mature and Further Educational Training (FET) students have their own admissions
routes and should contact college admissions offices for more information.
HEAR applications can only be made online. No means other than by way of online
submission of a HEAR application form will be accepted.

Disability Access Route to Education (DARE)

DARE is a third level alternative admissions scheme for school-leavers whose
disabilities have had a negative impact on their second level education. DARE offers
reduced points places to school leavers who as a result of having a disability have
experienced additional educational challenges in second level education.

You should apply to both DARE and HEAR if they are relevant to you.
Applicants who apply and are deemed eligible for both DARE and HEAR will be
prioritised by the participating colleges and universities when offering their reduced
points places. For more information on DARE see www.accesscollege.ie.

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 1

What are the benefits of making a
HEAR Application?
How do Reduced Points Work?
If you apply to HEAR and meet the application criteria (that is, are deemed eligible for
HEAR) you may be offered a place even if you do not have enough Leaving Certificate
points for your preferred course. Each participating college and university has a
number of reserved places to offer eligible HEAR applicants at lower or reduced
Leaving Certificate points.
An example of a reduced points offer is where the Leaving Certificate points for a
particular course is 366 points, and an eligible HEAR applicant could be offered
a place with a lower points score, e.g. 356 points. This applicant would also, like
all other applicants applying to college on the basis of their Leaving Certificate
results, need to meet the minimum entry requirements and any specific programme
requirements before being considered for a HEAR reduced points offer. The reduction
in points for HEAR places varies every year.
The amount of points a particular course is reduced by is dependent on a number of
factors, such as:
• The overall number of places on the course,
• The number of reserved HEAR places on the course,
• The number of HEAR eligible applicants competing for these reserved places.
Further details can be found at www.accesscollege.ie.

Extra College Support

If you get a place through HEAR you will receive a variety of academic, personal and
social supports while at college. Examples of extra college supports may include:
• An Orientation Programme to introduce you to university/college
– see www.accesscollege.ie for the 2025 Orientation dates.
• Extra tuition if required, study skills and exam preparation.
• One to one meetings with student advisers.
• Social gatherings/mentoring.
• Extra financial assistance when available/advice regarding grants and
scholarships.

2 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

Should I apply?
HEAR applicants must meet a range of financial, social and cultural indicators
(criteria) to be considered for a reduced points place and extra college support. Here
is a list of all the HEAR indicators:
Income: Your family income falls on or below the HEAR Income Limit for the year
1. 
2023 (see page 4 for details of the HEAR Income Limit).
Medical/GP Visit Card: Your family has a Medical Card/GP Visit Card that was in
2. 
date on 31 December 2024.
Means Tested Social Welfare: Your family received a means-tested payment
3. 
from the Department of Social Protection for at least 26 weeks in 2023.
Socio-economic Group: You belong to a group that is underrepresented in higher
4. 
education based on the occupation and employment status of your parent(s) or
guardian(s). The underrepresented groups are the Non-Manual Workers Group and
the Semi and Unskilled Manual Workers Group.
DEIS School Attendance: You completed five years in a second level school that
5. 
takes part in the Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools (DEIS) scheme run
by the Department of Education and Skills.
6. Area Profile: You live in an area where there is concentrated disadvantage – in
other words an area where, for example, there is high unemployment and poverty
and where only a small proportion of adults have attained third level education.

You must meet Indicator 1, the HEAR Income Limit, plus a correct combination of
2 other indicators to be eligible for HEAR. The combinations are:

Indicator Indicator Indicator Indicator

1+2+ 1+3+ 1+4+ 1+5+6
4 or 5 or 6 4 or 5 or 6 5 or 6

Indicator 1, the HEAR Income Limit, is calculated by:

• How many children there are in your family;
• How many people in your family are in full time education.

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 3

Use the table to estimate if your family income is equal to or less than
the HEAR income limit.

Number of dependent children*

HEAR Income Limit
in your family
Fewer than 4 €46,790
4-7 €51,325
8 or more €55,630
Add €4,785 to the total family/household income for every sibling/parent
enrolled in a full time college, university or post leaving certificate course.

*A dependent includes:
• a sibling under the age of 16 years on 1 October 2024.
• a sibling over the age of 16 years on 1 October 2024 who is either:
– attending post primary education.
– attending a full time course in FET or higher education.
– medically certified as permanently unfit for work.
• a parent attending a full time course in FET or higher education.

Is your family income less than the HEAR Limit and do

you think you may meet a correct combination of the
other HEAR indicators?
Yes Your answer indicates you should consider making a HEAR application.

No Your answer indicates you should not consider making a HEAR application.

Essential HEAR Information

How do I apply to HEAR?
Applicants applying for HEAR must:
1. Be under the age of 23 as of 1 January 2025.
2. Apply online to CAO by 17:00 on 1 February 2025. CAO applications open on
5 November 2024 at 12 noon.
3. No later than 17:00 on 1 March 2025, indicate in your CAO application that you wish
to apply for the HEAR scheme and fully and correctly complete all elements of the
online HEAR form. Once you have completed the HEAR application form, a checklist
will appear on screen telling you which documents you need to supply.
4. Post your supporting documents to arrive in CAO no later than 17:00 on 15 March 2025.

4 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

Completing your HEAR Application
This section is designed to help you and your parent(s)/guardian(s) complete your
HEAR application.

Important Instructions for your HEAR Application

1. Get assistance from your parents/guardians and use this handbook to help you
answer all relevant questions on your online HEAR application.
2. Fill in the application with your parent(s)/guardian(s) particularly questions 6 & 7.
3. Print off or email your checklist to your email account. The checklist is located at the
bottom of your online HEAR application, so you know exactly what documents to
submit. Check this handbook for details on how to obtain your supporting documents.
4. After submitting your online application, go to www.cao.ie, click on My Account, login
and check your application has been filled in correctly.
5. Start to gather your supporting documents early. It can take several weeks to get all
documents ready to be sent to CAO.
Only provide documents which have been requested on your checklist.
6. 
No other documents or information will be considered.
7. It is your responsibility to make sure all forms have been signed, stamped and
completed with the correct information by the appropriate Department of Social
Protection personnel.
8. Check that your income documents relate to the correct year.
• Statement of Liability for 2023 and/or Self-Assessment Letter – Chapter 4 for 2023.
• Department of Social Protection form or statement for 2023.
9. Submit all pages of Statement of Liability for 2023 and/or Self-Assessment –
Chapter 4 for 2023.
10. Send good quality photocopies of documents, not originals.
11. Keep a photocopy of all documents you submit to CAO. Keep proof of postage.
12. Submit all information before deadlines:
• 1 March 2025 for your online HEAR application
• 15 March 2025 for your supporting documents.
13. HEAR will not contact you about missing, incomplete or incorrect
documentation, so please ensure that you have supplied all documents
requested on your checklist by 15 March 2025. Please contact a HEAR advisor if
you have any questions in advance of submitting your documentation.
14. Remember to check your email account regularly for important CAO notifications in
relation to your application.

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 5

 HEAR Online Application Form
To log-in you must enter your details in the My Application section of the CAO
website and click Log-in. Scroll down and select the HEAR Form button under the
Higher Education Access Route.

In this section you must do 3 things:

1. Confirm your family income is within the HEAR Income Limit.
2. Agree to be considered for HEAR.
3. Agree that you have read and accept the HEAR Terms and Conditions.

Before proceeding with your HEAR application you must make sure that your family
income is within the HEAR Income Limit. To do this you must tick YES or NO to the
question:
Is your family income less than the HEAR Income Limit?
Use the following graphic of the HEAR application form as a guide to complete your
HEAR application.

What is HEAR?
The Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) is a college and university scheme which offers places on reduced
points and extra college support to school leavers, resident in the Republic of Ireland, who are under represented
at Higher Education due to their socio-economic background. HEAR has been set up by a number of higher
education institutions in Ireland. See www.accesscollege.ie for a list of participating higher education institutions.
Who can apply?
HEAR is for school leavers under the age of 23 as of 1 January 2025. Mature and FET students have their own
admissions routes and should contact the admissions officers of individual HEIs for more information.
Should I apply?
You must have a low family income to be considered for HEAR. For the purpose of HEAR low family income is
determined by:
• How many children there are in your family
• How many people in your family are in full time education
• How much your parents or guardians earned in income during the year ending 31 December 2023.
Use the table to estimate if your family’s income is equal to or less than the HEAR income limit:
Number of dependent children* in your family Help? HEAR Income Limit

Fewer than 4 €46,790

4-7 €51,325
8 or more €55,630
Add €4,785 to the total family/household income for every sibling/parent enrolled in
a full time college, university or post leaving certificate course.

Is your total family income less than the HEAR Limit? Yes No

If you tick YES to this question you will then be asked if you wish to be
considered for HEAR.

6 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

Section 1: Your Address
This information is used to determine whether you live in an area of urban or rural
disadvantage. Filling in your address carefully using the format below ensures we have
the best picture of where you live. Please note, HEAR may contact you and ask you to
provide evidence of this address.
Some addresses don’t have house names or numbers. If your address doesn’t have a
name or number, leave the fields blank. Eircode is Ireland’s postcode system launched
in July 2015. An Eircode can help accurately identify an address. Further information
on how to find your Eircode is available from eircode.ie.

Section 1: Address
Enter your current home address.
Please note that you may be contacted and requested to provide proof of your address. For information
on filling in your address or to see what evidence of address may be requested Click here for help.

House Name:
Number of House:
Address Line 1:
Address Line 2:
Address Line 3:
Address Line 4:
Area or Town:
County:
Eircode:

Please note HEAR may contact you and ask you to provide proof of this address.
You only have to provide this if HEAR contacts you and requests it. If you are
asked to provide evidence of this address HEAR will accept any of the following
documents as evidence of your address:
• Utility bill (gas, electricity, telephone, mobile phone).
• Letter from house or car insurance companies.
• Statement from a Bank, Building Society, Credit Union, Credit Card Company.
• Correspondence from a Government Department, Local Authority
or the Revenue Commissioners.
• Correspondence from the HSE.

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 7

Section 2: Second Level School
This information is used to determine if you attended a DEIS (Delivering Equality of
Opportunity in Schools) school for 5 or more years of your second level education.
The DEIS school list was compiled by the Department of Education and Skills (DES).
In order to assess your application, HEAR seeks your permission to contact the DES
directly to verify your DEIS school(s) attendance. In order to do that you must enter
your Personal Public Service (PPS) Number. If your information cannot be verified by
the DES, you may be asked to provide documentation from your secondary school(s)
detailing your DEIS school attendance.

Section 2: Second Level School

Use the drop down menus to select which county you went to second level school in and what second
level school you attended. If your school is not listed select: My School is Not Listed. Click here for help.

Select County DEIS School

Selected School:
Marian College, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 No. of years attended 5 Remove school

If you went to more than one second level school, use the drop down menus below to enter details of your previous
schools. If your previous school is outside the Republic of Ireland select: School Outside Republic of Ireland.

Select County DEIS School

Selected School:
Breifne College, Cootehill Rd., Cavan No. of years attended 1 Remove school

HEAR verifies your attendance with the Department of Education and Skills (DES). In order to do that you must enter
your PPS Number in the box below. If your attendance at the school(s) selected above cannot be verified with DES
HEAR will be in contact with you to seek alternative evidence to confirm attendance.

Please enter your PPS number:

By entering my PPS Number above I give permission to HEAR to directly verify it with the DES.

• Check the official name of your school.

• If your previous school was outside the Republic of Ireland, select: School
Outside of Republic of Ireland.
• If you attended more than one second level school, enter the details of the
previous school(s) you attended.

8 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

Section 3: Medical Card/
GP Visit Card
In order to assess your application, HEAR seeks permission to contact the HSE
directly to verify that you or your parent(s) or guardian(s) have a medical card or
a GP Visit card that is in date on 31 December 2024. You can supply us with the
information for yourself or your parent(s)/guardian(s). If you have a medical card in
your own name you should enter your own PPS number in the box.
If you do not have a medical card/GP Visit card in your own name but your parent/
guardian does, you should enter their name, date of birth and PPS number in the box
below. Please remember to insert your own PPS number also.

Section 3: Medical Card/GP Visit Card

Do you or your parent(s) or guardian(s) have a HSE medical card/GP Visit card
Yes No
that is in date on 31 December 2024? Click here for help.

Please enter your PPS number:

I have a medical card/GP Visit card valid on 31 December 2024.

By ticking yes and entering my PPS number above I give permission to HEAR Yes No
to directly verify the above statement with the HSE.

My parent/guardian has a medical card/GP Visit card valid on 31 December

2024. By ticking yes and entering my parent(s) or guardian(s) information
Yes No
below and my PPS number above we give permission to HEAR to directly
verify the above statement with the HSE.

Parent/Guardian’s Name:

Parent/Guardian’s Date of Birth: Year/Month/Day

Parent Guardian’s PPS number:

(click to save your details and continue on to complete the form)

Save

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 9

Section 4: Children in the Care
of the State/TUSLA
Some applicants are foster children or separated children and/or in the care of TUSLA
(the Child and Family Agency). Please answer the question below to indicate if you are
or have been in care.

Section 4: Children in the Care of the State/TUSLA

Are you currently in the Care of the State/TUSLA (the Child and Family Agency)
Yes No
or were you previously in Care of the State/HSE? Click here for help.

If No please continue to the next page of the handbook.

If Yes you do not need to complete Sections 5 to 7, but you must supply:
a letter from TUSLA on TUSLA headed stationery detailing the date you were
taken into care.

A foster child is any child who is looked after by someone else other than
the parents, by an order of the court or TUSLA, without a formal adoption of the
child by the person.
A separated child is any child under 18 years of age who is outside his/her
country of origin and separated from both parents or his/her previous legal
primary caregiver.

You can get the TUSLA letter from your social worker or project worker.
See www.tusla.ie or call 01-7718500 if you have any questions. See sample TUSLA
letter on page 25.

10 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

Section 5: Family Dependants
To determine your HEAR income limit we need to know the number of dependants in
your family.

Section 5: Family Dependants

Click here for help

A dependant is anyone in your family who is:
Ÿ a sibling under the age of 16 years on 1 October 2024.
Ÿ a sibling over the age of 16 years on 1 October 2024 who is either:
– attending post primary education.
– attending a full time course in FET or higher education.
– medically certified as permanently unfit for work.
Ÿ a parent attending a full time course in FET or higher education.
Do not include (count) yourself in this section.

Choose no.

(click to save your details and continue on to complete the form)

Save

• Make sure to count any parent/guardian attending a full time course.

• Do not count yourself as a dependant.

Enter each dependant’s name, date of birth, and the name of school or college they
are attending (if any).

Name Date of Birth School/College

Attending

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 11

Section 6: Socio-Economic Group
Socio-Economic Group (SEG) is a measure of social background. Your socio-
economic group is determined by the information you provide under Section 6 of the
HEAR application form, i.e.

6.1. Parent’s/Guardian’s Employment Status

6.2. Parent’s/Guardian’s Type of Employment
6.3. Parent’s/Guardian’s Occupation

Socio-economic group is not determined by whether your parent(s)/guardian(s) have

completed third level education.
Research shows that students from particular socio-economic groups are under-
represented in higher education relative to their proportion of the population as a
whole. The under-represented groups are the Non-Manual Workers Group and the
Semi and Unskilled Manual Workers Group.
The Higher Education Authority, the statutory planning and policy development body
for higher education and research in Ireland, has set specific targets for colleges and
universities in order to increase the number of new students entering higher education
who belong to these groups. Students who belong to either of these groups will be
awarded the HEAR socio-economic group indicator. Students who belong to any
of the other socio-economic groups will not be awarded the HEAR socio-economic
group indicator.
• Where you are providing information on two parents/guardians under Section
6: Socio-Economic Group, both parents/guardians must belong to an
underrepresented group in order for you to meet the SEG Indicator.
• Please enter details for your parent(s)/guardian(s) so that we can determine
your socio-economic group. If you are unsure about how to answer this
question please contact any member of the HEAR team for assistance.

12 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

6.1 Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Employment Status

Section 6: Parent(s) or Guardian(s) Employment Status

This is an important section of your HEAR application. Seek assistance from your parent(s)/guardian(s).
Be as precise as possible when describing your parent(s)/guardian(s) status and job titles. To ensure you answer
this section correctly please look at the instructions in the Handbook. Click here for help

Mother/Guardian 1
1. Present Principal Status:
Please select

Answer the following questions about your parent/guardian’s main job or their last main job if they are not
currently working.

2. Do (did) they work as an employee or are (were) they self-employed in their main job? Their main job
is the job in which they usually work(ed) the most hours.
Please select

3. What is (was) their occupation in their main job?

In all cases describe the occupation fully and precisely giving the full job title, such as Office Administrator (do
not use Administrator), Retail Store Manager (do not use Manager), Electrical Engineer (do not use Engineer),
Construction Labourer (do not use Construction) etc.

(click to save your details and continue on to complete the form)

Save

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 13

Complete this section with your parent(s) or guardian(s). You can select one of
the following options under Section 6.1 of the HEAR application form:

Present Principal Status Mother/Guardian 1 Father/Guardian 2

Working for payment or profit

Currently unemployed

Looking after home/family

Full-time student

Retired from employment

Unable to work due to permanent

sickness/disability

Never worked

No contact whatsoever

Deceased

Important Instructions

• Only tick ‘No contact whatsoever’ if you have never had any contact with
your parent/guardian.
• Only tick ‘Never worked’ if your parent/guardian has never had a job.
• If your parent/guardian works part-time or is on an employment scheme tick
‘Working for payment or profit’.

14 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

6.2 Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Type of Employment
You can select one of the following options under Section 6.2 of the HEAR application
form. Tick the type of employment your parent(s)/guardian(s) have or had in their
current or last main job.

Type of employment Mother/Guardian 1 Father/Guardian 2

Employee

Self-Employed (including farmer)

Self-Employed (including farmer)

with paid employees

6.3 Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Main Job Title

• You must give an accurate job title otherwise we may not be able to establish your
socio-economic group. Do not use generic terms such as Administrator, and be as
specific as possible. For instance:
– If your parent/guardian works as a cook in a fast-food restaurant, enter “works
as a cook in a fast food restaurant” instead of “McDonald’s”.
– If your parent/guardian is a computer programmer please enter “computer
programmer” instead of “computing”.
– If your parent/guardian works in retail, do not write retail. Be more specific for
example “sales assistant” or “store manager”.
• If your parent/guardian is a member of the Gardaí, army or a civil servant enter the
rank or grade.
• If your parent/guardian is working in an employment scheme e.g. CE Scheme,
enter “CE Scheme Worker” under job title.
• If your parent/guardian is currently unemployed or looking after the home/family
enter the title of the job in which they worked the most hours in the past. Do not
enter “Unemployed”.

Present Principal Status Job Title

Mother/Guardian 1

Father/Guardian 2

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 15

Section 7: Family Financial
Circumstances
This question asks you to tell us who contributed to your family’s income in 2023.
Your family income may come from:
• Employment
• Social Welfare
• Pensions
• Rental Property
• Farming

7.1 Who contributed to your family’s income in 2023?

Fill in section 7 with your parent(s)/guardian(s). Entering inaccurate information
in this section will affect the outcome of your HEAR Application.
Tick who contributed financially to your family’s income in 2023. If your parent(s)/
guardian(s) are separated/divorced only fill in the income of the parent that you live
with most of the time.

Section 7. Family Financial Circumstances

Please note this section relates to the year 2023 only. Click here for help.
Warning: Complete Section 7 with your parents or guardians. Entering incorrect information or failure to
answer all questions in this section will affect the assessment of your HEAR application.
Select who contributes to your family’s income.
Mother Father Guardian 1 Guardian 2

Enter your Mother’s Full Name:

Enter your Father’s Full Name:

(click to save your details and continue on to complete the form)

Save

16 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

7.2 Family financial circumstances
Please list all sources of income your parent(s)/guardian(s) received in 2023
excluding child benefit. You must tick yes or no to all types of income.

Type of Income Mother/ Father/ Document

Guardian 1 Guardian 2 Required

Was your parent/guardian Statement of

Yes Yes
in paid employment in Liability for 2023
2023 on a full, part time or No No from Revenue
temporary basis? Commissioners.
See Page 19

Was your parent/guardian Self-Assessment

self-employed, engaged in Yes Yes – Chapter 4 for
farming, or receiving rent No No 2023 from Revenue
from rental properties in Commissioners or Tax
2023? Exemption Letter.
See Page 19

Did your parent/guardian Department of

receive any social welfare Yes Yes Social Protection
payments in 2023 other No No (DSP) Form or DSP
than child benefit? Statement for 2023.
See Page 23

Did your parent/guardian Form RP50 Notification

receive any lump sum of Redundancy OR
payments in 2023 from Yes Yes Letter from Employer
his/her former employer No No See Page 24
as a result of being made
redundant?

Was your parent/guardian • Retirement Lump

retired in 2023? Sum Letter from
Yes Yes Employer (Page 24)
and/or
No No • Statement of
Liability for 2023/
Self-Assessment –
Chapter 4 for 2023
and/or
• Department of
Social Protection
(DSP) Form or DSP
Statement for 2023.
(Page 23)

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 17

Section 8: Carrying Forward HEAR
eligibility from 2024 to 2025
This section is only relevant to applicants who made a HEAR application and were
eligible in 2024 (e.g. applicants who are now repeating the Leaving Certificate or
taking up a deferral from 2024).

Eligibility for HEAR carries forward for one year provided that you:
• apply to CAO by 17:00 on 1 February 2025 and indicate that you wish to
apply to HEAR by 17:00 on 1 March 2025.
• supply your correct CAO 2024 application number.

The outcome of your 2024 HEAR application was communicated to you by email in
June 2024. If you applied to CAO in 2024 and you were deemed eligible for HEAR in
2024, then your HEAR eligibility can be carried forward to your application for entry in
2025. You must enter your correct CAO 2024 application number in the box provided.
You are still required to complete all relevant sections of the 2025 HEAR application
form, however you do not need to supply supporting documents as part of your
application. You can contact the CAO helpdesk if you require information about
your 2024 HEAR eligibility.

In the event of being offered and accepting a HEAR place in 2025, you may be
required to provide the supporting documents which accompanied your 2024
HEAR application.

You must be under the age of 23 as of 1 January 2025 to carry forward HEAR eligibility
from 2024 to 2025.

Please do not complete this section if you did not apply to or were not eligible
for HEAR in 2024.

February February March March

1 1 1 1
By 17:00 on By 17:00 on Insert 2024
1 February 2025 1 March 2025 CAO application
– apply to CAO – apply to HEAR and number under
complete all sections Section 8
of form

18 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

Supporting Document Section
Supporting Document Checklist
You can use the table on page 17 to work out what types of documents you need
to supply.
Review each question and answer Yes/No to each. Where you answer Yes, check the
“Document Required” column. This tells you what documents you must send to the
CAO by 15 March 2025.
If you have indicated income from both parents you must submit documents
detailing both their incomes. HEAR requires evidence of a full year’s income for
2023 (i.e. 52 weeks).

How to request supporting documents from the Revenue Commissioners.

If your parent(s)/guardian(s) received income from employment, self-employment, land,

farming or rent from rental properties:
• You must submit your parent(s)/guardian(s) Statement of Liability or a
Self-Assessment – Chapter 4 for 2023.
• If they are exempt from paying tax provide a tax exemption letter from Revenue.
• Supply documents for both parent(s)/guardian(s). If they are jointly assessed
one document is sufficient.
• Submit both pages of a Statement of Liability including front and back. If only
one page is submitted, it cannot be assessed.
• In all cases where you are submitting a Self-Assessment – Chapter 4 or Notice
of Assessment all pages are required.

What is a Statement of Liability?

A Statement of Liability is the new name for the Revenue statement that was
previously called a P21. A Statement of Liability is a statement of total income, tax
credit and tax paid for a particular tax year for people in paid employment who pay
all of their income tax under PAYE (Pay As You Earn). You do not automatically
receive a Statement of Liability from Revenue; you must request this document.
Your Employment Detail Summary will not be accepted.

Request your Statement of Liability online at www.revenue.ie.

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 19

How do I request a Statement of Liability for 2023?

The quickest and easiest way for your parent(s)/guardian(s) to get their Statement
of Liability is by clicking on the myAccount link on the Revenue website at www.
revenue.ie. There is a simple registration process and a PIN will be issued by post
in 5-8 working days. Your parent/guardian should log in using this PIN and request
the Statement of Liability. If your parent(s)/guardian(s) have chosen to receive
correspondence electronically, the Statement of Liability will be available by clicking
on the My Documents tab, otherwise the Statement of Liability will be posted to them.
Your parent(s)/guardian(s) may also request a Statement of Liability by submitting a
paper Income Tax Return.

What is a Self-Assessment – Chapter 4?

A Self-Assessment – Chapter 4 is a statement of total income or profits, tax

chargeable and tax paid for a particular tax year for people who are: self-employed,
directors, and/or receiving income of any kind where some or all of the tax cannot
be collected under the PAYE system. Do not submit Form 11 as this is not a required
document and will not be accepted.

How do I request a Self-Assessment – Chapter 4 for 2023?

A Self-Assessment – Chapter 4 will be in your parent(s)/guardian(s) Revenue

On-Line Service (ROS) inbox after they have completed their return and self-
assessment for 2023.

What if parent(s)/guardian(s) cannot get a Self-Assessment –

Chapter 4 document?

A Notice of Assessment – Chapter 4 will be issued by Revenue to parent(s)/

guardian(s) who file a paper tax return to Revenue and who do not complete a self-
assessment on that return. The majority of self-employed Revenue customers receive
a Self-Assessment – Chapter 4.

What if my parent(s)/guardian(s) have a ‘Notice of Amended Assessment

(Chapter 4)’ or ‘Notice of Amended Assessment (Chapter 5) for 2023’?

If your parent(s)/guardian(s) have a ‘Notice of Amended Assessment - Chapter 4’ or

‘Notice of Amended Assessment – Chapter 5 for 2023’ from Revenue you should
send this document to the CAO. Where a Notice of Amended Assessment – Chapter
4 or Notice of Amended Assessment – Chapter 5 for 2023 is received, HEAR will not
require a Self-Assessment - Chapter 4 or Notice of Assessment – Chapter 4.

20 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

How long will it take for Revenue to issue a Statement of Liability or
Self-Assessment– Chapter 4?
It is essential that you apply for a Statement of Liability early. Statement of Liabilities
can take several weeks to issue. If your parent(s)/guardian(s) do not have a Self-
Assessment – Chapter 4 (or a Notice of Assessment) for 2023 they need to complete
their Tax Return and Self-Assessment for 2023 on ROS as soon as possible.

If one parent/guardian was PAYE and one parent/guardian was self-employed

what document do I submit?
• A Self-Assessment – Chapter 4 for 2023 if parent(s)/guardian(s) are jointly
assessed by Revenue.
OR
• A Statement of Liability for 2023 and a Self-Assessment – Chapter 4 for 2023
is required if parent(s)/guardian(s) are separately assessed by Revenue.

What if my parent(s)/guardian(s) earned income from outside the Republic of

Ireland in 2023?
HEAR requests that you provide the Revenue equivalent of supporting documents for
the tax year 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2023. See accesscollege.ie for details.
A certified English translation by a professional translation service is required in the
case of documents not issued originally in English or Irish, in addition to the certified
A4 photocopies of the documents themselves.
You can also contact a member of the HEAR team for further information. Contact
details are listed on page ii.

What if my parent/guardian is self-employed and is also in receipt of a Social

Welfare payment?
Submit a copy of a Self-Assessment – Chapter 4 for 2023, plus a Department of
Social Protection form or statement for 2023 as outlined on page 23.

Please do not submit original documents. Documents will not be returned by

CAO. Send good quality photocopies including front and back of all pages.

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 21

 Sample Statement of Liability 2023 Sample Self-Assessment Letter
Chapter 4 for 2023

Sample Notice of Assessment Sample Notice of Amended

(Chapter 4) for 2023 Assessment (Chapter 5) for 2023

22 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

How do I complete the Department of Social
Protection (DSP) form or statement?
If your parent(s)/guardian(s) received income from the DSP in the year ending
31 December 2023, you must provide the following four pieces of information
from the DSP:
• The total amount of social welfare income received in 2023.
• The name of the person(s) receiving the payment.
• The name of the payment(s) received.
• The date the payment started and the date the payment stopped (if applicable).
The DSP form is included at the back of this handbook or you can download it
from your online HEAR Application.
Ask your parent(s)/guardian(s) to have the local DSP Office Complete, Sign and
Stamp your DSP Form. Alternatively your parent(s)/guardian(s) can request a copy of
their DSP payment statement online at www.welfare.ie.
You can submit the DSP form or a statement from DSP. Remember HEAR requires
evidence of a full year’s income for 2023 (i.e. 52 weeks). Some applicants, depending
on their parent(s)’/guardian(s)’ circumstances in 2023, may need to submit Revenue
documents and/or evidence of other income as well as evidence of DSP income.

Request for Information

from the Department of CAO Office Use Only
Social Protection

Your parent(s)/guardian(s) must complete Part 2 and submit this form at their local DSP Intreo
Centre. Keep a photocopy and proof of postage. Submit all documents to CAO by 15 March 2025.
Important Instructions
It is the responsibility of every applicant to ensure both pages of this form are filled in correctly.

Part 1: To be completed by HEAR Applicant

HEAR Applicant’s Name:

Address:
• You can find your local Social
Welfare Office at www.welfare.ie.
CAO Number:

Date of Birth: D D M M Y Y Y Y • If you misplace your form you

PPS Number:
can download it again from your
Part 2: To be completed by applicant’s Parent(s)/Guardian(s)
I authorise the release of information outlined below for the purposes of assessing a HEAR application. online HEAR application or find
Parent 1/Guardian 1 Signature Parent 2/Guardian 2 Signature it at www.accesscollege.ie. It is
your responsibility to make sure
PPS Number (Parent 1/Guardian 1) PPS Number (Parent 2/Guardian 2)

Part 3: To be completed by DSP Official

all forms have been signed,
Parent 1/Guardian 1 Name: stamped and completed with
the correct information by
Please do not alter the year for which information is required on this form.
Total Social Welfare Income on all social welfare schemes*
previously paid to this PPS number in the year 2023?

In receipt of means-tested social assistance payment(s) for at

YES NO
the Department of Social
least 26 weeks or 6 months in the year 2023?

Name of Payment(s): Protection.

Payment 1:

Payment 2:

* Excluding Child Benefit and certain supplements paid under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance schemes.
This is page 1 of a 2 page form. Page 2 must be completed, signed and stamped. 1/2

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 23

Lump Sum Redundancy/Retirement Payments
If your parent(s)/guardian(s) received any lump sum payments in 2023 from his/her
former employer as a result of being made redundant or retiring from employment,
you must submit:
• All pages of Form RP50 Notification of Redundancy
OR
• A letter from your parent(s)’/guardian(s)’ last employer or body administering
pension showing:
– Date employment ceased.
– Gross amount of lump sum received in the year ending 31 December 2023.
– Number of years in that employment.
– Gross annual pension.

Sample Form RP50 Sample Retirement Lump Sum Letter

24 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

Children in Care of the State/HSE/TUSLA
If you are or were a foster/separated child or in the Care of the Health Services
Executive/TUSLA, you must:
Supply a letter from TUSLA detailing:
• That you are currently in the Care of TUSLA or you had previously been in the
Care of the State/HSE.

CAO
Tower House
Eglinton Street
Galway

1 March 2025

To Whom It May Concern:

_____________________________________ (name of HEAR Applicant) is currently/

or was previously in the care of TUSLA / the HSE.

He / she was taken into care from_____________________________ (month / year)

Kind regards,

Name of Social Worker / Project Worker

Position in TUSLA / HSE
Contact Telephone
Contact Email

Important Instructions

• You can get this letter from your Social Worker or Project Worker.
• A separated child is any child under 18 years of age who is outside his/her
country of origin and separated from both parents or his/ her legal/ customary
primary caregiver. A foster child is any child who is looked after by someone
else other than the parents, by an order of the court or the Health Service
Executive/TUSLA without a formal adoption of the child by the person.
• See www.tusla.ie or contact 01 771 8500

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 25

 Ticking YES that you want to be considered for HEAR, also means that
you have read and accept the HEAR Terms and Conditions.

HEAR Terms and Conditions of Application

To apply to HEAR you must agree to the HEAR terms and conditions below:
By ticking yes, I confirm that I have read and I accept the terms and conditions as outlined.
I consent to the use of my data as detailed in the HEAR Terms and Conditions.

1. I have read, understood and will comply with the rules of Education and Skills (DES) directly based on the
and requirements of application as detailed in the PPS number provided in Section 2 of my application
HEAR Application Handbook. form. If my information cannot be verified by
DES, I understand that I may be asked to provide
2. I understand that it is my responsibility (and not that
documentation from my secondary school(s) detailing
of my parents, guardians, teachers, or anyone else)
my DEIS school attendance. Failure to provide
to ensure that all parts of my HEAR application are
verification from my school(s) within the specified
submitted in a complete and accurate manner, within
deadline will mean that I will not be awarded the
the specified HEAR deadlines. Failure to do so will
HEAR DEIS School indicator.
negatively affect the outcome of my HEAR application.
8. I understand that, if I have indicated on my HEAR
3. I understand that:
application form that either I or my parents/guardians
a. information provided on my HEAR application form have a Medical Card/GP Visit Card in date on 31
by 1 March 2025, December 2024 and if I provided my/their PPS
number(s), that this will be verified directly with the
b. documentation received by the CAO by 15 March
Health Service Executive (HSE). If I provide inaccurate
2025 and, where relevant, or incomplete PPS number(s) I understand that this
c. any further additional documentation requested by will mean that I will not be awarded the Medical
HEAR received within the specified deadline, Card indicator.

d. and any further information considered relevant by 9. I understand that, if I accept a HEAR place, a
HEAR, will be considered when determining the condition of acceptance is that I must attend the
outcome of my HEAR application. HEAR Orientation Programme in the participating
higher education institution in which I have accepted
4. Neither the CAO nor the participating HEAR higher the place. Failure to attend without prior permission
education institutions will accept any responsibility from the Access Office or other relevant office of that
for any loss or hardship arising as a result of an higher education institution, could result in my HEAR
applicant’s failure to supply correct and complete place being withdrawn or in the withdrawal of other
information at the appropriate time. potential post-entry supports (e.g. financial supports).
5. I understand that all information supplied as part of 10. I understand that data contained in my HEAR
my HEAR application may be subject to verification application will be used for research and analysis
or clarification and that HEAR can request additional purposes by participating HEIs, agents acting on
documentation from me in relation to any aspect behalf of the HEIs or the CAO, but that this data will
of my application. Failure to supply additional be anonymised and none of my personal data will be
documentation within the specified deadlines will identifiable should it be published.
result in my ineligibility for HEAR.
11. Where I am found to have made false declarations,
6. I understand that HEAR uses my address information or it is found that anyone else has made false
to determine whether I live in an area of urban or rural declarations as part of my HEAR application, I
disadvantage and that HEAR may contact me and ask understand that I will be ineligible for HEAR. I also
me to provide proof of this address. Failure to provide understand that the participating HEAR higher
proof of address within the specified deadline will education institutions reserve the right not to consider
mean that I will not be awarded the HEAR Area my application, and/or to cancel any offers of places
Profile indicator. in cases where it is found, during or post-admission to
7. I understand that, if I have indicated on my HEAR higher education, that false or misleading information
application form that I have attended a Delivering was supplied in my HEAR application.
Equality of Opportunity in Schools (DEIS) School for 12. I certify that all information I have supplied in my
5 years or more of my second level education, that HEAR application is accurate and true.
HEAR will verify this information with the Department

26 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

Next Steps in the
Application Process
I have completed After the Leaving Certificate ends in late June 2025,
my online HEAR you will receive notification from HEAR about the
application and outcome of your HEAR application and whether you
are eligible to be considered for a HEAR place. You
submitted supporting can view the outcome of your HEAR application
documents, what by logging into your CAO account under the My
happens next? Application section on www.cao.ie.

If you are eligible for HEAR, you will now compete for
one of the reserved places on offer in the participating
colleges. If you are successful you will receive a
HEAR course offer through CAO on receipt of your
Leaving Certificate results in August 2025. You must
What does it mean meet the minimum entry and course requirements to
be considered for a HEAR place. Details of places
if I am eligible for available and minimum course requirements can be
HEAR? found on www.accesscollege.ie.

If you are successful, you will be notified by CAO

and by the college or university which makes you
the HEAR offer. Accept your place through CAO and
What happens if the college or university. If you accept the place you
must attend the mandatory orientation programme
I receive a HEAR before the first term. Details of orientation dates can
offer? be found on www.accesscollege.ie.

Being ineligible for HEAR means that you cannot

compete for one of the reduced points places.
Applicants are ineligible because they did not meet
criteria or they failed to meet the terms and conditions
of application. It does not affect any application you
have made for courses through the CAO. In other
words, you may still be offered a place on a course
What does it mean if you meet the entry requirements. It does not affect
if I am ineligible any application you may make to Student Universal
for HEAR? Support Ireland (SUSI) for a maintenance grant.

Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025 27

 HEAR uses a Review and Appeals process to
I am ineligible, make sure that all HEAR applicants are treated
can I have my fairly and the assessment procedures have been
applied consistently. Further information on the
application review and appeals process is available at
reviewed? www.accesscollege.ie/hear/reviews-and-appeals

HEAR will only discuss your application with you, your

parent(s)/guardian(s) or a person nominated by you.
HEAR Policy on Any unsolicited correspondence from a third party will
Correspondence not be taken into account.

Advice and support

All participating colleges have a staff member who can advise you on how to apply
to HEAR. If you wish to speak to someone about your HEAR application, or have
questions relating to a specific college or university, contact any member of the
HEAR team listed on page ii.
For Questions about completing your HEAR application contact CAO Helpdesk:
Email CAO by clicking “Contact Us” at www.cao.ie or phone: 091 509 800.

Other Useful Resources

Financial Assistance
Students applying to HEAR are encouraged to find out more information on the
maintenance grant. Additional information on other sources of financial assistance for
third level students is available at www.studentfinance.ie.

Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI)

For detailed information on financial support and student grants when going to third
level, log on to www.susi.ie.
• Use the Grant Eligibility Reckoner to indicate if you meet SUSI’s criteria to
receive student grant funding.
• Apply early and return requested documentation as soon as possible.
Tick the SUSI option on your CAO application to share your college
• 
course details with SUSI.

28 Higher Education Access Route Handbook 2025

 Request for Information
from the Department of CAO Office Use Only
Social Protection

Your parent(s)/guardian(s) must complete Part 2 and submit this form at their local DSP Intreo
Centre. Keep a photocopy and proof of postage. Submit all documents to CAO by 15 March 2025.
It is the responsibility of every applicant to ensure both pages of this form are filled in correctly.

Part 1: To be completed by HEAR Applicant

HEAR Applicant’s Name:

Address:

CAO Number:

Date of Birth: D D M M Y Y Y Y
PPS Number:

Part 2: To be completed by applicant’s Parent(s)/Guardian(s)

I authorise the release of information outlined below for the purposes of assessing a HEAR application.

Parent 1/Guardian 1 Signature Parent 2/Guardian 2 Signature

PPS Number (Parent 1/Guardian 1) PPS Number (Parent 2/Guardian 2)

Part 3: To be completed by DSP Official

Parent 1/Guardian 1 Name:

Please do not alter the year for which information is required on this form.
Total Social Welfare Income on all social welfare schemes*
previously paid to this PPS number in the year 2023?

In receipt of means-tested social assistance payment(s) for at

YES NO
least 26 weeks or 6 months in the year 2023?

Name of Payment(s):

Payment 1:

Payment 2:

* Excluding Child Benefit and certain supplements paid under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance schemes.
This is page 1 of a 2 page form. Page 2 must be completed, signed and stamped. 1/2
 Parent 2/Guardian 2 Name:

Please do not alter the year for which information is required on this form.
Total Social Welfare Income on all social welfare schemes*
previously paid to this PPS number in the year 2023? €

In receipt of means-tested social assistance payment(s) for

YES NO
at least 26 weeks or 6 months in the year 2023?

Name of Payment(s):
Payment 1:

Payment 2:

*Excluding Child Benefit and certain supplements paid under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance schemes.

Additional Payment Information

1. Is there an Adult Dependant on payments listed on this form? YES NO

Name of Adult Dependant:

2. Are means deducted for payments? YES NO

If yes, please enter amount of weekly means deducted

Weekly means deducted for Parent 1/Guardian 1 in 2023

Weekly means deducted for Parent 2/Guardian 2 in 2023

All forms must be completed, signed and stamped by a DSP official.

Forms that are not signed and stamped are invalid.

Name of DSP Official (BLOCK CAPITALS):

Date: D D M M Y Y Y Y
Signature of DSP Official

DSP Official Stamp

HEAR is a college and university

admissions scheme for school
leavers, resident in the Republic of
Ireland, who are under represented
at Higher Education due to their
socio-economic background.

2/2
 Application Information Days

Saturday
11 January
2025
10am – 2pm

Application
Information Days
will take place both
online and in person for
2025. Further information
on DARE HEAR
application days 2025
will be published on
accesscollege.ie
 18-24 November 2024

Send your supporting documents to

HEAR Applications 2025
CAO, Tower House, Eglinton Street, Galway
by 15 March 2025

Key Dates
1. Information on DARE and HEAR Application Information days will be
published on accesscollege.ie
2. Apply to CAO by 1 February 2025 on www.cao.ie.
3. Complete and submit your online HEAR Application Form by 1 March 2025.
4. Send your supporting documents to HEAR Applications 2025, CAO, Tower
House, Eglinton Street, Galway by 15 March 2025.
5. Put your name and CAO number on all documents submitted to CAO.
6. Keep the originals of all documents and proof of postage. HEAR will not contact
you about missing, incomplete or incorrect documentation, so please ensure that
you have supplied all documents requested on your checklist by 15 March 2025.

Please contact a HEAR advisor if you have any questions in advance of submitting
your documentation.