Understanding the Recent Changes in Leaving Cert Grading and Their Impact on the CAO

Recent announcements by Minister for Education Helen McEntee shed light on the changes in Leaving Certificate grading and their implications for the Central Applications Office (CAO) next year. The gradual removal of the post-marking adjustment process will continue into 2026, marking a significant shift in assessment methods.

Impact of Leaving Cert Grading Changes in 2026

As per the latest updates, results from the Leaving Certificate in 2026 are projected to be the lowest seen in six years. This change stems from a return to pre-Covid assessment standards, which began in 2025 and is set to phase in gradually.

• 2026 results will be slightly lower than those of 2020.
• This follows a trend of grade increases since the pandemic.
• Students are encouraged to focus on individual preparation for the exams.

Historical Context of Leaving Cert Grades

The alteration to grading comes as a response to pandemic-related adjustments initiated in 2020. During that year, the absence of traditional exams meant that teachers assessed their own students. Consequently, grades were found to be approximately 4.6% higher than the previous year.

Subsequent years saw additional enhancements:

• 2021: 2.4% increase through the Accredited Grades process.
• 2022-2024: Average enhancement of 7% to align with previous years.

In 2025, the adjustments began to decrease, although results remained significantly elevated—5.9% higher than 2019 levels. With this trend, many students have enhanced grades, affecting competition for college placements.

Students’ Outlook for CAO Applications

In the upcoming academic year, about 20,000 applicants who completed their Leaving Cert from 2020 will be competing for places. The majority of these candidates hold enhanced grades. Therefore, CAO points are expected to remain consistent with 2025 levels, affecting all applicants, including the Leaving Cert class of 2026.

Strategies for the 2026 Leaving Cert Class

Students preparing for the Leaving Cert in 2026 should focus on their assessment readiness. Success in securing a place in desired courses may depend on individual effort and adaptability.

• Preparation is crucial for navigating the changing grading landscape.
• Alternative pathways through further education programs may also be beneficial.
• Approximately 20% of places in most courses are now reserved for graduates from one-year PLC Level 5 programs.

In summary, as grading systems evolve in the Leaving Certificate framework, students are advised to proactively prepare for challenges that may arise in CAO applications. Understanding these changes will guide them toward achieving their educational goals.