HEAR

HEAR is a third level admissions scheme for school leavers from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Eligible students receive comprehensive post-entry supports and compete for a quota of reduced points places at Maynooth University. 

School leavers who have the ability to benefit from and succeed in higher education and who come from socio-economic groups in Irish society that are underrepresented in third level and are using the Irish leaving certificate to enter Maynooth University.

To tackle educational disadvantage. Socio-economic disadvantage negatively impacts on educational attainment at school and affects progression by some second level students to third level. Research in Ireland shows that for example, the son/daughter of an unskilled manual worker (e.g. factory worker) is less likely to progress to higher education than the son/daughter of a higher professional (e.g. doctor).

Yes, you can defer your HEAR place. Follow the university deferral procedures. When you register at Maynooth University, the Maynooth Access Programme will be alerted and you will receive you HEAR supports. 

Your attendance at Launchpad is the first point of engagement with the Maynooth Access Programme and participation is mandatory for all students who enter Maynooth University through HEAR.  At Launchpad, you are provided with a solid understanding of the supports you will receive for the duration of your degree from MAP as well as an invaluable head start into university. MAP believes that this programme is critical for all HEAR students and this is why attendance is mandatory. 

In some cases it may be possible for participants to leave  Launchpad for a period of time. This may only occur in exceptional cases and with prior approval by Access Office staff. 

Students offered a place through the Maynooth Access Programme must attend the Launchpad  if invited. If they do not attend the Launchpad (without prior approval obtained from the Access Office) they will lose all support from MAP and will not receive any funding from the ESF Fund. In exceptional circumstances, absences may be approved.
Reasons for Approved Absence
In some cases it may be possible for participants to leave the Launchpad for a period of time. This may only occur in exceptional cases and with prior approval by Access Office staff.

Reasons for leave include a Debs, GAA commitments, a driving test or another organised event, etc. Once an absence is approved, the participant will receive an absence card at the Launchpad registration desk which contains the date and time when they may leave the programme and also includes the time they must return and check in with their leader. If the participant does not return at the arranged time, repercussions may include losing their place on the Access Programme. It is at the discretion of MAP staff whether an absence is permitted.

No, the only time you can apply to HEAR as when you apply for 3rd level through the CAO. Maynooth University has many supports available to all students. You can find out more in Campus Life. 

Yes, you can be eligible for both HEAR and DARE. You should apply to both entry routes.