CAO Change of Mind: Five Steps to Get Your Choices Right Before July 1st
With the CAO Change of Mind deadline fast approaching, now is the time for students to take one final look at their course choices. After 5:00 pm on July 1st, no further changes can be made, so it’s important to be confident that your application reflects what you really want to do.
Whether you’re making major adjustments or simply checking that everything is in order, these five steps can help you make the most of the opportunity.
1. Put Your Courses in Genuine Order of Preference
One of the most important CAO rules is also one of the most misunderstood. CAO offers are made based on your order of preference, not on the points you expect to achieve.
Your number one choice should always be the course you would most like to study. Don’t place courses higher on your list simply because you think they are more realistic based on points. If you do, you could end up receiving an offer for a lower-preference course and miss out on a course you actually preferred.
Ask yourself a simple question: “If I were offered every course on my list tomorrow, which one would I choose?” That course should be at the top with your second favourite course in as number 2, followed by your third favourite and so on all the way down to number 10. Points do rise and fall every year based on demand for places so no one can predict accurately what the points will be for 2026 entry until the day the CAO Round 1 offers are issued on August 26th at 2pm. The best guide we have is to look at what the cut-off points were in 2025. You should include your dream courses even if they seem out of reach but make sure that you also include courses that you have a very strong chance of getting and are sure of getting. Much focus goes on courses which have very high points but there is a huge selection of courses across all career areas and lots of ‘back routes’ into your course of choice. Take all of that into account when finalising your list.
2. Review Any New Courses Carefully
The Change of Mind period often encourages students to explore new options, which can be a positive thing. However, any course added at this stage deserves the same level of research as those already on your list.
Look closely at the modules, assessment methods, work placements, study abroad opportunities, and career pathways associated with each course. College websites provide detailed information that can help you understand what day-to-day life on the programme will actually be like.
It’s also worth considering factors beyond the course itself. Think about location, accommodation, commuting time, campus facilities, student supports, and overall college experience. Finding the right environment can be just as important as finding the right course.
Be cautious about making last-minute changes based solely on rumours, social media trends, or what friends are choosing.
3. Make Sure You Meet the Entry Requirements
Points are only one part of the admissions process. Every course has minimum entry requirements, which may include specific subjects, grades, language requirements, or Higher Level passes.
A student can have sufficient points for a course but still be ineligible if they do not meet the required entry criteria.
Take time to double-check the requirements for every course you’re considering. University websites, CareersPortal and Qualifax are excellent sources of up-to-date information. If you’re unsure about anything, seek clarification from the universities before the deadline passes.
4. Use All of the Options Available to You
Students can list up to 10 Level 8 courses and up to 10 Level 7/6 courses on their CAO application. 20 choices mean 20 chances to secure a college place. Many applicants leave spaces blank, reducing their opportunities unnecessarily.
The Level 8 and Level 7/6 systems operate independently. This means you may receive an offer from both lists when Round One offers are issued, giving you more flexibility and choice.
Level 7 and Level 6 courses can also provide excellent progression routes to Level 8 qualifications, making them a valuable option for many students. A well-considered list should include a range of courses that genuinely interest you across both levels.
5. Give Your Application One Final Check
Before July 1st, log in and carefully review your application.
Check that:
· Courses are listed in the correct order of preference.
· Course codes are accurate.
· Personal details are correct.
· Any recent changes have been saved successfully.
· You are happy with every choice on your list.
A few minutes spent reviewing your application can help avoid unnecessary stress later in the summer.
Final Thoughts
The Change of Mind facility gives students a valuable opportunity to make sure their CAO application reflects their current interests, ambitions, and goals.
Use the remaining time wisely. Research thoroughly, trust your own preferences, and avoid making decisions based on pressure from others. The aim is not simply to secure a college place, but to choose a course and learning environment where you can thrive.
Remember: The CAO Change of Mind facility closes at 5:00 pm on July 1st. Don’t leave changes until the last minute.