Admission to a particular course is subject to places being available on the course and the following criteria being satisfied: 

• An applicant is 17 years of age upon commencing the course.  

• You must hold a PPSN number. 

• Applicants should be of Leaving Certificate standard or have achieved an Applied Leaving Certificate with Distinction. 

• Mature Students (21 years and older) are assessed on their merits and previous experience and may not require the above qualifications. 

• Applicants with English as a second language will be required to sit an English Language assessment to ensure they meet the language requirements for the relevant course. 

• All applicants may need to do a computer assessment. 

Some courses may have additional entry requirements not listed above. Further details are outlined on the individual course requirements on our website.  

Places on courses are limited, early application is advisable. 

If you are an applicant from outside the EU or EEA, you need to meet one of the following criteria to be eligible for a QQI Level 5 or 6 course at Portlaoise Institute: 

• Have Labour Market Access Permission (LMAP) Letter 

• Temporary protection (Ukrainian Citizens) 

• Hold Stamp 4, Stamp 5 or Stamp 6 on your Irish Residence Permit Card 

If you would like further information on your eligibility, you can contact the Adult  Guidance & Information Service at laoisinfohub@loetb.ie 

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STEP 1: Complete the application form 

The application form can be completed online when applications open for the academic year. Interviews are held from March to course commencement – you will be sent an email confirming your interview time and date about 2 weeks before the interview will be held. 

STEP 2: Attend for Interview 

Interviews are held in person in the Institute. On the day, you will first check in at our check in desk and be asked a few simple questions to confirm your eligibility for the course. You will then be asked to fill in a Pre Interview Questionnaire and will then be brought up for a short interview to discuss the course requirements, expectations and make sure the course is the right match for you. 

You will need to bring the following documents when attending your interview; 

• Proof of PPS Number 

• Proof of ID 

• A copy of Leaving Certificate results or equivalent (if applicable) 

• Proof of Non-EEA eligibility -Temporary Protection, Stamp 4, 5 or 6 or Labour Market Access Permission (if applicable) 

All ID must be valid and reflect a current date. 

STEP 3: PLACE OFFER AND REGISTRATION 

Successful applicants will be informed if they have been offered in person on the day of the interview or via email later that week.  

To secure your place on the course a non-refundable fee of €50 must be paid within 3 weeks of when a place is offered on the course. Students must also fill in a Registration form (PLSS form) and provide the above documents. If you are under 18 years of age you will need also to complete and return a consent form signed by a parent or guardian. 

If your application is unsuccessful you will be referred to our Guidance Service to discuss your options.