Random selection is the method chosen by the CAO to differentiate between candidates when the number of candidates with a given number of CAO points outnumber the places available on the course these candidates have applied for. It is based on a randomly generated number allocated to each candidate for each course they apply for. Where candidates are tied on points and random selection occurs, this selection is based on which students have the highest random numbers. The use of this method to distinguish between applicants who are otherwise equally qualified is a matter determined by the CAO and the higher education institutions.
In the case of Medicine programmes, the HPAT is an additional entry requirement. The CAO process applications for undergraduate, and some postgraduate, courses on behalf of the HEIs. The HPAT (Health Professions Admission Test) is independently administered by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) on behalf of the universities’ medical schools and the RCSI. The selection criteria and process for admission to medical schools is a matter for the universities and the RCSI in line with their statutory autonomy in relation to academic affairs.
In July 2022, Minister Donnelly and I announced an agreement with the Irish Medical Schools to phase in an increase of 200 additional Irish/EU medicine places over the next 5 years. The first phase has seen an additional 60 places offered in September 2022.
