Choosing the right college is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. While our CAO Hub offers helpful guidance online, NCI’s CAO Open Day lets you explore your options in person - from discovering our Business, Computing, Psychology, and Education courses to experiencing the welcoming NCI community in the heart of Dublin.
Whether you’re just starting to explore your CAO choices or finalising your preferences, this blog will help you make the most of your visit.
General Questions
What is a CAO Open Day?
A CAO Open Day is an opportunity to visit a college in person before you finalise your CAO application. At NCI, it’s your chance to explore our city-centre campus, chat with lecturers and students, and get a real sense of what studying here is like.
Don't miss out! Our next CAO Open Day is taking place on Wednesday, November 19th - Register Here.
Why should I attend if I can get information online?
While you can find course details online, a CAO Open Day gives you the opportunity experience the atmosphere first-hand. You’ll get to ask questions in real time and see what student life at NCI actually feels like - something you can’t fully capture on a screen.
Do I need to register in advance, or can I just show up?
We recommend registering in advance so we can send you event updates and a full schedule. However, if you decide to come along on the day, you’ll still be very welcome!
Is there a cost to attend a CAO Open Day?
Nope, NCI’s CAO Open Day is completely free to attend.
Academic & Course-Related Questions
Can I talk to lecturers or current students about the course content?
Yes! You’ll have the chance to meet lecturers who teach on the programmes you’re interested in, as well as current students who can share what it’s really like to study at NCI. It’s a great way to get insights beyond what’s in the course brochure.
If you would like to find out more about student life on campus, then check out the NCI Instagram page!
I still haven’t decided what course I would like to do, will there be resources available at the CAO Open Day that can help me decide?
Choosing what programme is for you can be tricky. One of the best parts of NCI’s CAO Open Day is the chance to attend sample lectures. These sessions give you a real taste of what it’s like to study different subjects and help you figure out which course feels right for you. You’ll also have the opportunity to chat with lecturers and current students afterwards to ask questions and get greater insights into the courses.
See an example timetable of the classes we run during the CAO Open Day where you can learn more about your area of interest - NCI CAO Open Day Sample Class Timetable.
Will I get information about entry requirements and points from last year?
Absolutely. Our admissions team will be on hand to answer questions about entry requirements, CAO points, and alternative pathways. You will also be provided with a prospectus which outlines the most up-to-date details.
You can also download a copy of our prospectus - Download Full-Time CAO Prospectus 2026-2027.
Campus & Facilities
How do I get to NCI?
NCI is located in Dublin’s International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), just a short walk from Connolly Station and the Luas Red Line. Both our Mayor Square and Spencer Dock campus buildings have Luas stops situated directly outside their front doors. There are also several Dublin Bus routes nearby, and parking options close to campus.
Travelling to campus for the Open Day will be a great insight too into what your commute to NCI will look like should you choose to attend here!
Further information on how to find us, as well as some helpful resources such as sensory maps, can be found on the NCI Location page.
Can I tour the campus?
Yes - campus tours run throughout the day. You’ll get to see classrooms, study spaces, the library, our student union hub as well as our new state-of-the-art Spencer Dock campus building. It’s the perfect chance to picture yourself as part of the NCI community.
Get a taste of what you can expect by watching our Campus Tour Video.
Will there be information about clubs, societies, and student support services?
Definitely. Our student ambassadors, as well as members of the student support team, will be available to chat about everything from sports and societies to wellbeing, careers, and learning supports.
Further information about supports available to students, as well as other helpful CAO advice, can be found on our blog "Did You Know...? Some FAQs About NCI for CAO Students".
Practical Questions
What should I bring with me on the day?
While this is no requirement for you to bring anything with you on the day, it may be helpful to bring a notebook or phone to write down any key information you learn over the course of the event.
Can parents/guardians attend with me?
Of course! Parents and guardians are welcome to attend. If they are unable to join, feel free to bring a friend with you. Having someone with you can make the day more enjoyable - they may even think of a question you hadn’t considered!
If you are the parent or guardian of a CAO student considering their options, we encourage you to visit our Parents & Guardians page which highlights some key resources and information that you may find beneficial.
I'm a Guidance Counsellor, can I bring a class group to NCI's Open Day?
Yes, absolutely! Guidance Counsellors are very welcome to bring class groups to NCI’s CAO Open Day. To arrange your visit, please contact our School Liaison Officer, who will be happy to accommodate your group and provide any information you need ahead of the event.
Attending NCI’s CAO Open Day is the perfect way for Leaving Certificate students to explore course options and get a real sense of college life. You’ll gain valuable insights that will help you make confident CAO choices. For details on our upcoming events, please visit our CAO Open Day Hub.
