The newly updated and eagerly awaited Qualifax programme is now available.

The Institute of Guidance Counsellors says its computer programme for teachers, with information on more than 3,000 courses in Ireland, is finally ready - with an exciting new feature: it will allow students to apply to the CAO electronically for the first time, at a cost of £15 (£3 less than the usual method). Also, says Father John Dunne of the IGC, "you can get into the Internet through the programme" and view a range of college web sites. The delay in the release of Qualifax, Dunne explains, was caused by a number of tardy third-level colleges which had to be chased and prodded to provide information. The information covers PLC, certificate, diploma and degree-level courses, with details about entry requirements and course content. The programme, which was first produced four years ago, has sections on the points system, the type of grants awarded, a list of European addresses and a calendar of career events. The Windows 95 version costs £40 including postage; the DOS version is £30, including postage. To obtain a copy, write (enclosing the money) to the National Information Technology in Education Centre (NITEC), c/o Forbairt, Ballymun Road, Glasnevin, Dublin 9.