More students choosing to study in Mayo as CAO applications rise

More students are choosing to study in Mayo, according to new figures released by the Central Applications Office (CAO), which show a rise in applications across the West and North-West region.

The data for 2026 reveals that applications from the main catchment counties of Mayo, Galway, Sligo and Donegal increased from 11,408 to 11,866 — a 4% rise overall. Applications from Mayo alone increased by 4.37%, reflecting steady demand among local students for higher education opportunities in the region.

The figures come with overall applications nationally rising by 6.46%, from 83,424 to 88,817.

The growth in applications across the region reflects a wider trend of students opting to remain closer to home for their studies, with institutions such as Atlantic Technological University (ATU) playing a key role in attracting learners from across the West and North-West.

Commenting on the trends, Billy Bennett, Registrar and Chief Academic Officer at ATU, said the figures show a clear shift toward regional study choices.

“The CAO data highlights continued growth in higher-education participation in the West and North-West, with more learners opting to remain in their region while accessing a broad range of study options,” he said.

READ MORE: Grand Marshals announced for north Mayo St Patrick's Day parade

“Across our region, the proportion of students progressing locally has increased significantly over a short period, indicating a meaningful shift in student decision-making.”

The data also points to strong interest in health and applied science programmes, with mentions of veterinary courses rising by 96%, pharmacy by 69%, and physiotherapy by 26% nationally.

According to Jacinta Ryan, Admissions Manager at Atlantic Technological University, the institution continues to see a strong alignment between student choices and the courses offered.

“Over the last three years, between 75% and 80% of students accepting a place at ATU are being offered their first-preference programme. This consistently high level of alignment reinforces ATU’s standing as a university of choice,” she said.

With participation rates increasing and more students opting for local study options, the new CAO figures suggest that universities across the West and North-West — including those serving Mayo — will continue to see strong demand in the years ahead.

READ MORE: Are Mayo honeybees under threat?