An online schools admissions platform is now live in Oranmore, joining multiple schools in Athenry which began using it last year.
Calasanctius College, Oranmore, joins three schools in Athenry that participated in the Apply to School pilot programme: Presentation College, Clarin College and Coláiste an Eachréidh.
The Apply to School platform, applytoschool.ie, was first introduced in 2025 across 15 schools in Athenry, Celbridge, Greystones, Clonakilty and Tullamore.
Following the success of the pilot programme, the initiative has now been expanded and launched for the 2027/2028 admissions cycle, providing a simpler and more streamlined way to apply for first-year places through a single online application form.
Welcoming the launch, Galway West TD and Minister of Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton said, “I am delighted to see the launch of the expanded Apply to School pilot system and to see more families in Galway benefiting from this innovative service.”
“Building on the success of last year’s pilot programme, this initiative is making the admissions process simpler, more transparent and less stressful for parents and students.”
“By listening to feedback from schools and parents, we have continued to improve the system so that it works better for everyone involved.”
“This is an important step towards delivering a streamlined national approach to school admissions, reducing administrative burdens for schools while providing a more user-friendly experience for families.”
“In total, 22 post-primary schools are taking part in the expanded Apply to School system. The enhanced online process is expected to directly benefit around 2,600 families applying for first-year places in October 2026. Parents and guardians are reminded of the October 22 deadline to submit applications.
