A language exemption is an entry-requirement decision, not extra CAO points. Apply to the body responsible for the requirement. For NUI institutions, the handbook directs applicants to NUI; other institutions have their own procedures. CAO Handbook 2027, printed page 19.
Irish and a third language are different requirements
An exemption from Irish does not automatically remove a third-language requirement. The answer depends on the exemption grounds and the course. NUI publishes separate grounds covering birth or education outside Ireland, learning difficulties and other circumstances. Read the ground that actually applies to you rather than treating another student's exemption as a precedent. NUI language exemptions.
A school exemption from studying Irish and an NUI matriculation exemption serve different purposes. An NUI exemption is also separate from DARE eligibility; applying to one does not apply to the other. NUI language exemptions.
How to apply and record the decision
Use the official NUI exemption application portal for an NUI exemption. Its current instructions require online submission, not a postal application. Follow the documentary requirements for the selected ground.
For a non-NUI institution, contact its Admissions Office about the exemption you need. CAO's handbook says approved exemptions become visible in the Qualifications and Assessment section from early March. Handbook, printed page 19.
Check the approval in May
When the Check and Confirm email arrives, inspect the exemption entry. If an exemption granted by NUI, TCD, MI or UL is missing, notify the institution that granted it immediately. Keep the approval and your application details together so you can identify the mismatch. Handbook, printed page 19.
Do not assume “I submitted the form” means “the exemption has been granted”. Check the actual decision and the course requirement it covers.
A useful distinction before choosing courses
Suppose a course has a language requirement and you believe an exemption may apply. First confirm the course rule and the appropriate exemption route; then check the evidence and approval. Separately calculate your points. Removing an entry condition does not increase that number or promise an offer.
For qualifications from outside Ireland, the correct matriculation rules may differ. Read international qualifications and contact the college rather than automatically using a Leaving Certificate exemption form.
Sources and verification
Checked 7 September 2026 against CAO Handbook 2027, printed page 19, and the NUI guidance and portal linked above. No personal exemption eligibility is determined here. Current application grounds and course exceptions must be checked with NUI or the institution concerned.