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Yes, there are a number of ways to prepare for your interview:

• Attend the Co-op Employability Programmes which focus on CV and interview preparation
• View advice on co-op CV and interviews available on 
• Access the UL Careers Service website for detailed information on interview preparation
• Contact Patsy Ryan, Careers Advisor for Mature Students, if you would like to speak to someone on a one to one basis about interview preparation. There is also a tailored section for Mature Students on the Careers Service website.

Should you have personal circumstances which may impact your placement please contact your Placement Officer to discuss.

Although every effort will be made to accommodate your situation, we cannot guarantee a local placement.

There is no automatic entitlement to an exemption from Co-op. You may, however, be entitled to an exemption if you have had previous relevant work experience. Each application for an exemption will be assessed on an individual basis.

Please note that Co-op is assessed on a pass/fail basis. If you do not pass your Co-op Placement, you are not entitled to a retrospective exemption based on your previous work experience.

You can apply for a Co-op exemption as early as you like, but the application should be completed at least six months before your placement is due to begin. The Co-op Placement period for some degrees is in 2nd year and for others it is in 3rd year. You should be clear about when exactly the Co-op placement for your degree begins, so you can apply in time for an exemption.

In the first instance, you should then speak to the Co-op Manager responsible for your course and discuss your reasons for applying for an exemption.

An exemption from Cooperative Education placement is based on recognition of prior learning, so you will need to provide your Co-op Manager with a two-page summary of any previous work and or life experience that you feel is relevant. You will also need to attach employer references for approval. Once approved by your Co-op Manager you will then need to make your formal application to the Student Status Committee who will consider your application. All applications need to be made via  .

Student Status Committee Meetings are held three times per Academic year. See Academic Calendar for Meeting dates and application deadlines.

Basically, your time is your own. You do not have to be present on campus. If you have questions on the possibility of taking some of your degree modules over the Co-op placement period, you should contact your Student Advisor.

Please note that co-op is assessed on a pass/fail basis. If you do not pass your Co-op Placement, you are not entitled to a retrospective exemption based on your previous work experience.