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Universities across the country are prepared to limit the number of students allowed to defer their spot this year amid concerns that large numbers may choose to do so due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Trinity College Dublin (TCD) and University College Dublin (UCD) are among the universities that may introduce restrictions this academic year, according to the Irish Times.
Most of the tertiary education this year will be carried out remotely via online delivery, as social distancing restrictions have limited the ability of universities to accommodate students on their campuses.
UCD has said it will impose a five percent limit on the number of students in a class who can defer their spot during the year, while TCD has also said it will limit postponements to ensure there are enough places for applicants in 2021.
An unpublished report from the Higher Education Authority prepared earlier this year warned that a significant number of third-level students would likely be deferred this year as a result of the pandemic.
Points increase
It comes as points for most college courses increased significantly compared to last year, as thousands of students received a first-round CAO offer yesterday.
Ratings inflation was seen as a result of the adoption of a calculated rating system that saw the Leaving Cert class of 2020 achieve record results.
The point increase came despite the government’s effort to ease grade inflation by introducing thousands of additional third-tier locations this year.
More than half of those who applied for a level eight course through the CAO system were offered their first choice this year, while 90 percent of those who applied for level six and seven were offered their first choice .
The Sinn Féin spokesperson for Continuing and Higher Education said yesterday that the Government failed in the management of third-level offers and did not ensure “equal conditions” for students.
Higher Education Minister Simon Harris defended the government’s approach: “I don’t want to see anyone at a disadvantage, but I am not lost on the fact that we are now having a conversation in which we have implemented measures to protect those who are generally the most disadvantaged.
“As a result, we may be asked questions about schools that pay fees that might not normally be asked during a Leaving Cert year. So I think this system is as fair and sound as can be. “
The National Association of Directors and Deputy Directors has advised any student who needs counseling over the next few days to contact the Department of Education helpline at 1800 265 165.
CAO offers must be accepted by 3pm on Wednesday, September 16.
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