September is in full swing. Back to school, new students are discovering NCI's campus, and once again it is time for Higher Options at the RDS.  

About Higher Options 

Higher Options is a yearly event that invites students to explore post-secondary school options. Up to 30,000 students attend Higher Options each year. Most of them are senior-cycle students who have just begun sixth year so this event at the beginning of their school year can help them decide what it is they are aiming for as they prepare to sit their Leaving Certificate in the summer.  

The event is held in the RDS Main Hall, and students can chat to experts from colleges, apprenticeship bodies, and international institutions. 

NCI at Higher Options  

This year's event runs from September 16th - September 18th, 2026.  

This year, you can find the NCI team at NCI's display at stand 211.  

You can chat to members of staff, School Liaison Officers, and NCI Student Ambassadors. You can look through our prospectus, ask questions about the courses NCI offers, and chat to the team all about life here at NCI. We are with you every step of the way, and the very first step could be at Higher Options. Make sure you visit the team at stand 211.  

There is a sense of excitement in the air as young people see firsthand the options ahead. Higher Options is the largest education expo in Ireland, and at National College of Ireland, the team are always delighted to take part.  

We hope to see you there.  

Are you ready to explore your CAO options? You can browse through all of NCI's undergraduate courses to see what is right for you.