Over 30,000 attendees to visit The Irish Times Higher Options 2026

The Irish Times Higher Options 2026 event will take place today, Thursday 17 September and tomorrow, Friday 18 September in the RDS, Dublin, bringing together 30,000 students, guidance counsellors, teachers and parents at Ireland’s largest education expo.

More than 130 exhibitors will offer students the opportunity to explore an extensive range of education and career pathways available after sixth year, with representatives from higher education institutions across Ireland including Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, University College Cork, University of Galway, Dublin City University, University of Limerick, Maynooth University, TU Dublin, Ulster University and Queen’s University, alongside technological universities, 32 UK universities and colleges, and 16 EU and international universities.

Students will also have the opportunity to speak to professional bodies and leading industry organisations such as Health Service Executive, Irish defence forces, Coillte, Office of Public Works, Teagasc, Law Society of Ireland, AirNav, Ireland Revenue Commissioners, and the teaching council.

Faculty teams and student representatives are on hand to help students compare their options and access practical guidance to help them make informed decisions about their futures.

Alongside the exhibition, an extensive programme of talks across four halls will cover subjects including technology and AI, engineering, business and sustainability, nursing and health sciences, law, science, media and the arts, sport, teaching and college life. Dedicated sessions will also provide practical information on CAO and UCAS applications, further education and training, alternative routes and opportunities to study in Europe.

An Cheathrú Ghaeltachta, run in partnership with Foras na Gaelige, will once again showcase Irish-language study and career opportunities, while the further education, information and training zone supported by the National Apprenticeships Office and This is FET, will give students the chance to explore opportunities beyond traditional university routes. UK, EU and international zones will give students access to institutions and advisory organisations from across Europe, the United States and further afield.

Students interested in studying abroad can also access organisations such as Campus France Ireland and Education USA, for advice and information about the practicalities of international study.

The annual event is a staple in education calendar, and The Irish Times looks forward to welcoming students from across the country to the RDS as they start to navigate their future paths.