Applying to UCAS for 2026

Sarah interviews Hennie about her experience with the Leaving Cert, discussing her journey, study strategies, and the importance of managing stress. Hennie shares her insights on subject choices, study techniques, and the significance of past papers. She reflects on her results day experience and offers valuable advice for future students aiming for high scores.Chapters00:00Navigating the Leaving Cert Experience03:16Study Strategies and Techniques06:04The Importance of Past Papers09:11Subject Preferences and Challenges12:01CAO Application Insights14:31Managing Stress and Expectations17:35Results Day Revelations20:36Current Studies and Future Aspirations23:49Advice for Future Leaving Cert StudentsThis episode is brought to you by findmycollegecourse.ie  Use the promo code in this episode to get 20% off.

Richard Chen, who got 613 points in his LC, joins the Leaving Cert Guidance podcast and shares his experiences navigating the Leaving Cert, the pressures of exam preparation, and the emotional journey leading up to results day. He discusses the impact of social media on his study habits, effective study techniques he discovered, and the importance of balancing study with self-care. Richard also reflects on his transition to college life, the challenges of independence, and the significance of finding community through societies. He concludes with valuable advice for current and future students about maintaining perspective and prioritizing mental health during their academic journeys.00:00Navigating the Leaving Cert Journey02:27The Power of Social Media in Studying05:12Effective Study Techniques and Strategies08:05Balancing Study and Life11:02Transitioning to College Life13:32Finding Your Place in University16:19Advice for Future Students19:19Leaving Cert Guidance.MP4

In this episode, Sarah interviews Martha Harper, a medical student who gained popularity on TikTok for her content about the HPAT and her journey into medicine. Martha shares her experiences with the HPAT, the challenges of transitioning from secondary school to college, and the importance of balancing study with self-care. She provides valuable insights into the structure of the HPAT, her study strategies, and the resources she found helpful. The conversation also touches on the social aspects of college life and offers advice for future students navigating their own educational paths.You can follow Martha on TikTok @marthaharperrFollow us on TikTok and Instagram @leavingcertguidanceChapters00:00Introduction to Martha and Her Journey01:33Understanding the HPAT Exam03:20Navigating the Leaving Cert Experience06:05The Gap Year and Its Impact09:01The Transition Back to Medicine11:18Studying for the HPAT vs. Leaving Cert13:41Resources and Strategies for HPAT Preparation18:02Navigating the H-PAT and Personal Experiences18:51Transitioning from Secondary School to College Life22:06Understanding College Assessments and Workload26:09Resources and Support for Medical Students28:21A Day in the Life of a Medical Student30:26Advice for Future Medical Students and Leaving Cert Students30:32Martha's TikTok Journey and Authenticity in Sharing Experiences

In this episode of the Leaving Cert Guidance podcast, Sarah Ó Tuama and guidance counsellor Donnchadh discuss the Central Applications Office (CAO) process, providing essential tips and insights for students navigating college applications. They cover key topics such as application deadlines, the change of mind facility, common mistakes, and the importance of research. The conversation also highlights new courses for 2026, the points system, and considerations for students with disabilities. Parents are encouraged to support their teens while allowing them to make their own decisions. This episode is brought to you by findmycollegecourse.ieFollow us on Instagram and TikTok @leavingcertguidance

In this episode of the Leaving Cert Guidance podcast, Sarah Ó Tuama and Donnchadh discuss the critical process of selecting a college course. They emphasise the importance of research, aligning personal interests with potential career paths, and the role of parents in guiding students. The conversation also covers practical tips for navigating the CAO application, the significance of open days, and how to prepare for them effectively. Donnchadh shares insights on evaluating new courses and understanding points predictions, while also addressing the needs of shy students during these events. This episode is brought to you by findmycollegecourse.ieFollow @leavingcertgudiance on Instagram and TikTok.

In this episode, Sarah asks Donnchadh about the UCAS application and how Irish applicants can tackle it.What is UCAS, how does the application work, how do I write a personal statement, what is student finance and how do repayments work?  What courses in Northern Ireland are popular and have no fees?All will be answered in this episode presented by findmycollegecourse.ieDont forget to follow @leavingcertguidance on Instagram and TikTok.

Donnchadh and Sarah chat on the first Leaving Cert Guidance episode of the academic year, bout Tertiary Degrees.Donnchadh reckons the landscape of the Irish education system has changed with the development of Tertiary degrees.Find out more about Tertiary degrees at nto.ieThe episode is brought to you by IADT Tertiary degrees in Business & Psychology and Immersive Media Production.  Check out IADT.ie or nto.ie for more information on these courses.Follow @leavingcertguidance on Instagram and TikTok to stay up to date.

Ray Lanigan is a high impact study skills coach and a school motivational speaker.  he joins Donnchadh to discuss his study skills strategies such as the 30 minute study sprint and the whiz grid.  What advice does Ray have for students doing their mocks and advice for parents on this journey also?Dont forget to follow @leavingcertguidance on Instagram and TikTok.

Substance misuse expert, Sinead Carey, joins the Leaving Cert Guidance podcast to help students stay safe this Christmas.  What do students who are going out this Christmas need to know so they can keep themselves safe, the 5 As that parents should do when their child is out, the best website for information and how schools can assist students also.Don't forget to follow @leavingcertguidance on Instagram and TikTok.

Over the next few weeks there are important upcoming deadline dates.  Many students will take the opportunity over the Christmas break to prepare for these deadlines.Donnchadh explains to us what deadlines are fast approaching and what students need to do to get ready for these.From applying to the CAO, UK, Europe, HPAT and even a course in America, Donnchadh has you covered.Don't forget to follow us @leavingcertguidance on Instagram and TikTok.