PLC Information

Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS)

The Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS) gives learners the opportunity to use their QQI Level 5 or 6 major award to apply, through the CAO, for a place in the first year of a higher education programme.

Programmes leading to Level 5 and Level 6 Major Awards are available through providers who have programmes validated with QQI. Please view the Provider and Programmes Directory in QSearch for details of providers offering programmes of education and training. Please note, application to participate in the programme is made directly to the provider.

Linked awards, special requirements and available higher education programmes are published by the admissions office of the individual higher education institution and on www.cao.ie.

Further information can also be found in QQI’s publication – Progression Opportuntities into Higher Education – shown below..

Progression Opportunities into Higher Education HELS