Students waiting on access scheme decisions have an important deadline to watch this week. The gov.ie-linked higher education support landscape is back in focus as the HEAR and DARE appeals process opens for the 2026-2027 CAO cycle, giving eligible applicants a fresh opportunity to have their case reviewed.
Applicants who applied to either scheme should receive their outcome on 23 June 2026. If they believe their application was assessed incorrectly, they can now use the HEAR and DARE appeals process, which remains open until 5pm on 2 July 2026. For many students, this stage can be critical, particularly where access support may improve their path into third-level education even if their CAO points fall below the standard course threshold.
What the HEAR and DARE appeals process means for students
The HEAR and DARE appeals process is designed to give applicants a formal review option after decisions are issued. HEAR supports school leavers from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, while DARE is intended for students whose disabilities or ongoing medical conditions may have had a significant impact on their education.
These schemes play a major role in widening participation across the Irish higher education system, alongside institutions and agencies connected to Education, Further and Higher Education, the Higher Education Authority (HEA), Solas and the State Examinations Commission (SEC). They sit within a broader public service framework often referenced by students using Citizens Information Board resources and official updates across gov.ie.
Key dates to remember
- Application outcomes issued: 23 June 2026
- HEAR and DARE appeals process opens: 23 June 2026
- Appeal deadline: 5pm on 2 July 2026
Because the window is short, applicants should review their result as soon as possible and gather any relevant supporting material without delay.
Who should consider making an appeal
The HEAR and DARE appeals process is not for submitting a brand-new application. Instead, it is intended for students who believe there was an issue with how their original application was handled, or where required information was submitted correctly but may not have been reflected in the outcome.
You may want to consider an appeal if:
- You think documentation was overlooked or assessed incorrectly
- You met the scheme requirements but were deemed ineligible
- There was a clear administrative or processing issue
Students should carefully read the outcome notice and follow the official appeals guidance before proceeding. As with other state-facing processes managed by bodies such as the Revenue Commissioners, Health Service Executive (HSE), Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) or An Garda Síochána, accuracy and deadlines matter.
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Why these access schemes matter beyond CAO points
The value of the HEAR and DARE appeals process goes beyond one deadline. These schemes help reduce barriers for students who may face financial disadvantage, disability-related educational disruption or unequal access to opportunity. In practical terms, that means some students can receive reduced points offers, additional college supports or more equitable access to competitive courses.
This approach reflects wider priorities seen across Education and Social Protection policy, as well as public bodies involved in equality, access and participation. For students and families trying to navigate the admissions system, the HEAR and DARE appeals process can therefore become an important safeguard.
What to do next
If you applied through either access route, check your result immediately and act quickly if you need a review. The HEAR and DARE appeals process closes at 5pm on 2 July 2026, and late action could mean losing the chance to challenge a decision. For applicants hoping to secure a fair route into college, this is a deadline worth taking seriously.
Article/Image Courtesy: Citizens Information
