Please note that all staff are currently working remotely. For all queries please contact access@ul.ie

The Access Office supports Access students, under the age of 23, who enter the University through one of two Access routes: 

1. Higher Education Access Route
2. Access to University Course 

The Access Office works to promote and support the access and participation of students from groups that have been under-represented in third-level and the University sector. The Access Office engages with students and their parents at different stages in the educational lifecycle, beginning in schools and communities at the earliest opportunity and facilitating entry pathways to third-level.

The Access Office uses the concept of the Engagement Cycle to inform its policies and everyday practices. The core activities of the Access Office can be viewed through the following phases:

• Aspiration: Raising awareness of the possibilities of third-level education and reducing barriers to entry. 
• Transitions: Providing clear pathways and flexible entry routes for students to enrol in higher education. 
• Retention: Ensuring a range of supports are available throughout students' programmes of study to increase the likelihood of completion.

The work of the Access Office may be broadly categorised into three areas:

• Pre-entry school activities at both primary and second level. 
• Post-entry students supports. 
• Outreach work in the community

For further details on any aspect of the Access programmes contact access@ul.ie