The Minister for Education and Youth has announced that the gradual removal of the post-marking adjustment for Leaving Cert exams will continue for the 2026 Leaving Cert results. 2026 aggregate results will be brought just below 2020 levels, as part of the gradual return to normal Leaving Cert outcomes.
For 2027, aggregate Leaving Cert results are likely to reduce by a similar amount as between 2025 and 2026.
Assessment adjustments – for example, the reduced number of sraith pictiuir for oral Irish – will continue. These adjustments will be phased out gradually due to the implementation of new Senior Cycle Redevelopment subject specifications and exam formats.
For LCA students entering 5th year in 2025 and 2026, the application of a scaling factor of 1.15 will continue to apply to writing examination results.
Junior Cycle CBAs
Junior Cycle students due to sit exams in 2026, 2027 and 2028 will continue to only be required to undertaken one Classroom Based Assessment.
The Department of Education and Youth will be providing further clarity to schools in the coming days.
View press statement Minister McEntee confirms assessment adjustments for Leaving Cert 2026.
