Norma Foley believes the situation will improve with school extensions in the pipeline.
The duplication of applications and choice of schools could be some of the reasons behind difficulties finding a place in Offaly, according to the Education Minister.
Norma Foley says single-sex schools and an external draw for places can also contribute to enrolment pressures in the county.
In response to a Parliamentary Question from Laois Offaly Independent TD Carol Nolan, Minister Foley says the provision of school places in Offaly is a priority for her and her department.
She also highlighted a number of active planning projects in the county, such as the new Oaklands Community College building and extensions to Colaiste Choilm in Tullamore and Rathangan BNS.