Please note the process for applying for a CAO deferral will be updated for 2025.

Prospective Students

Deferred Entry - Central Applications Office

The University will endeavour to facilitate students who on completion of their second-level studies, wish to undertake a year in employment or voluntary work by permitting them to apply for admission a year in advance. The following steps should be taken when making a deferred application:

1. The offer of a place should not be accepted through the CAO
2. The applicant receiving an offer should email deferredapplications@dcu.ie  the email should arrive no later than two days before the 'Reply Date' for accepting the offer of a place, and should state:
   • Round offer made in e.g. A/0/1 etc.
   • CAO number
   • First Name
   • Surname
   • Date of Birth
   • Email
   • Programme Offered e.g. DC001
   • Reason for wishing to defer