Thousands of prospective students who applied for third-level courses were able to check to see whether they secured their second choice this morning after offers were made through the Central Applications Office (CAO) at 6am. To download a full list of this year's points, click here.

The long wait is over and the first round offers have been released. Whether you have received an offer of a place on the course you wanted – or haven't done as well as you expected – there are steps you must now take as you prepare for the next stage of your education. Éanna Ó Caollaí reports.

Is this the day the music died? Academics working in the creative arts will be disappointed that CAO points for music, animation, fine arts and theatre have plummeted this year. Peter McGuire reports.

This morning more than 50,000 applicants will receive an offer from the CAO on behalf of the 44 institutions who provide their places on courses through this structure. Here's are some of the big trends from this year's figures. Brian Mooney reports.

Are you starting college in September? If you are already a registered student at one of Ireland's third-level institutions or if you are just about to start in first year, you automatically qualify for a free 12-month irishtimes.com digital subscription. For more read here.

If you have any questions our online helpdesk is operating from 8.30am with guidance counsellors on hand to offer expert advice and we will have updates throughout the offers process at irishtimes.com. Click here to submit a question.

And so it begins, the next part of your life – you've made it: college is almost here! Amidst all the excitement, relief and curiosity, it is natural to also be worried or nervous. Soon-to-be graduate Louise Lawless has some advice on what you should expect as you start off in third-level.

What happens if you don't like your course? How should you manage your time? Áine McMahon has some tips on getting through your first year