Your options after secondary school

If you are a secondary school student, you might be hearing a lot about the different third-level opportunities over the coming months. It’s important to remember that college is only one of the options available to you.

Thinking about going to college

Deciding what you want to do after school can be challenging. Identifying your own interests, researching your options and giving yourself time will help you to make the choice that is best for you.

If you think you want to move on to college and aren’t sure how to make it a reality, know that there are many different routes and financial supports that can help you to get there.

College is one of the routes you can consider taking after secondary school but it certainly isn’t the only one. If you decide college isn’t for you, know that you can explore other options such as PLCs, apprenticeships and finding a job.

If you are leaving school soon, spunout can equip you with the information that you need to allow you to take the next step. Find out more about:

Going to college

• How to choose a college course

How to apply for college courses

• Applying for college through the CAO
• Applying for college abroad
• Going to college on the HEAR and DARE schemes
• Important dates for your CAO
• Changing course choices on the CAO

Financial support for college students

• Applying for a student grant from SUSI
• Financial supports for college students in Ireland
• Saving money as a student
• Dealing with financial stress as a student

Options if you’re not sure about college

• What can I do when I finish secondary school?
• Could a PLC course be right for you?
• Is an apprenticeship for you?
• What is a traineeship?
• Tips for finding a job online
• What to write on your CV if you don’t have much experience

Get more information with Youth Information Chat

If you have any questions about your options after school, the Youth Information Chat Officers can provide you with personalised information.

Youth Information Chat is an online chat service operated by Youth Information Centres across Ireland and SpunOut.ie. The chat service connects young people or parents with a professional Youth Information Officer who can provide them with personalised information.

For any students with questions about going to college, the Youth Information Chat will be there to answer your questions. 

The chat is available from 4pm to 8pm, Monday to Friday. Outside of these hours, you can leave a message and someone will get back to you when they log online.

Chat now to a trained Youth Information Officer.