Results in the aggregate in 2026 will be just under those in 2020 – which were more than four percentage points above 2019 levels. As you reference in your question, in 2020, given that there was no Leaving Cert, teachers calculated grades for their own students. These additional highly sought after places will see more students secure offers in high-points disciplines in 2026 and in the following years. Tertiary degrees offered through nto.ie offer students another avenue to their dream courses which take factors other than CAO points into consideration. She should ignore the issue of reductions in enhanced grades and focus on her studies.

Source: The Irish Times December 08, 2025 12:02 UTC