Trinity Access invited students from BITE to go along to their Taste of TAP day in November 2023 to learn more about the Trinity Access Programmes Foundation Course.

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First of all, what is the Foundation Course? It is a year-long, full time academic preparation course for mature students and young adults which prepares students, both personally and academically, to go on and study at degree level. After successful completion from the Foundation Course students can enter into any Trinity College Dublin undergraduate degrees. To make an application students apply directly via Trinity College's website (you cannot apply through the CAO) and must submit a personal statement and take part in an interview as well as meet the Eligibility Criteria outlined below.

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Here is what PJ had to say from taking part in the day,

"Kelsey, Ellie, Ahlam and myself attended the Taste of TAP day in Trinity College and we all really enjoyed it. We think it is a brilliant alternative to doing a PLC, and a great option for people who want to go to Trinity College but never got enough points for their course. It is also worth considering for those who don’t really know what they want to do in college yet, but still want to go but may need a little extra help or guidance. There are plenty of subjects for everyone to choose from, such as Social Sciences, Science, and Arts. I personally will definitely apply to TAP, and would 100% recommend anyone else to apply too as it opens up a lot of opportunities for people to get to whatever they want to do in their careers."

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Eligibility

To be eligible for this course you must:

• attend a second level school in Dublin which has DEIS status/is linked to an access service
• meet the same socio-economic criteria as set out for HEAR
• achieve a minimum 5 Ordinary grade 6s/ Higher 7s and at least one Higher grade 5 in the Leaving Certificate. (Applicants must pass English and Mathematics. A pass means grade O6/H7 or above on ordinary or higher papers in the Leaving Certificate. A pass in foundation level Mathematics is acceptable for minimum entry requirements) We will also consider applications from applicants with a distinction in the Leaving Certificate Applied and applicants with a QQI-FET level 5 award
• have taken the Leaving Certificate in the year of application or not more than two years prior to application
• be 21 years of age or under on 1st January in the year you apply
• be eligible for the Government Free Fees Scheme or EU Fees

Please note:

• One place is reserved each year for an applicant from the Traveller Community who meets the above criteria and who scores 25 or over at interview
• One place is reserved each year for an applicant who is in the care of the State/is a care leaver who meets the course criteria and who scores 25 or over at interview

For more information visit: Foundation Course - Trinity Access Programmes, Trinity Teaching & Learning - Trinity College Dublin (tcd.ie)

If you are interested in submitting an application for the Foundation Course and would like support or you have any questions about access routes to college please get in touch with Diane from BITE by emailing programmedirector@biteballymun.com