The recent good news regarding Ireland’s economic recovery appears to be filtering down to school leavers, as this year’s Central Applications Office (CAO) data reveals an increase in applications for third-level courses in construction, engineering and technology. The new CAO data shows that first-preference applications for level 8 engineering and technology courses have increased in 2015, with first-preference applications for these courses jumping from 5,840 in 2014 to 6,384 in 2015 (an increase of 9.3%). The total number of students who have applied for level 8 engineering and technology courses has also increased from 32,444 in 2014 to 35,201, a jump of 8.5%. Overall, 73,091 applications were received by CAO by the 1 February closing date, an increase of almost 2,000 applicants on the previous year. In contrast, the number applying for level 7 and level 6 engineering and technology courses has decreased over the last year. Applications for these courses have fallen by 7.3%, while first-preference applications have dropped by 6.9%. Honours degree construction-related courses also show a dramatic 28% increase in first preferences, although the numbers are still relatively low. In another sign that school leavers are hoping for a new building boom, first preferences for architecture are up almost 16%. The data provided at this stage is interim data and is subject to change when late applications are taken into account and when the ‘Change of Mind’ facility closes on 1 July at 5:15pm. Speaking about the application figures, CAO general manager, Joseph O’Grady, said the majority of CAO applicants will be permitted to avail of the ‘Change of Mind’ facility when it opens on 5 May.