The Defence Forces conducts work experience for transition year students normally twice a year; once in spring and once in autumn. Due to operational and training commitments, transition year work experience is only conducted during these periods. Transition year work experience is co-ordinated through Manpower Offices at Brigade Headquarters for the Army, and through Manpower Offices at The Air Corps and Naval Service Headquarters.

Due to the high number of transition year applications, it is important that applicants follow the application procedure and submit the required documentation on time. The following are the steps in the application process:

1. Interested students should inform their TY co-ordinator / work experience co-ordinator that they wish apply for a placement with the Defence Forces.

2. The TY co-ordinator / work experience co-ordinator should email the nearest Defence Forces Manpower Office stating that they have students interested in the Defence Forces transition year work experience programme.

3. The Manpower Office will send details of the programme to the TY co-ordinator including: application forms, and instructions that the school and student must complete and return to the Manpower Office.

4. The local Manpower Office will inform applicants if they have been successful or not.