The reaction the Leaving Cert Results 2025 has been interesting.

Overall, students seem happy with results. On average, students grades were inflated by 5.9%. But I guess, it’s just part 1 of the story. Part 2 is next Wednesday when the CAO offers take place.

I’ve a few big takeaways from today’s results.

1. The CAO race is unfair

One thing is clear for me — this year’s results feel inherently unfair.

Students are going into the CAO race already 12 points down on last year’s class, while almost 20,000 applicants from previous years are still competing with higher scores. It’s the same system, but this year’s students are disadvantaged. Simple as.

The same problem with grade deflation will occur next year.

2. Higher-Level Maths is now essential

If there’s one subject that stands out in the Leaving Cert 2025 results, it’s Higher-Level Maths.

  • 15% more students sat the higher paper.
  • 95% secured the 25 bonus points.
  • Less than 1% failed.

Meanwhile, Ordinary Level Maths results took a hit. In 2024, 11% of students secured an O1. In 2025, just 6% did. That has halved in one year. This year’s exams were harder, but I wonder if this is a sustained move to push students into Higher Level Maths.

For younger students looking ahead, the message is obvious: not doing Higher-Level Maths is now like giving up 25 points for free. With almost everyone at Higher Level getting the bonus points, doing Ordinary Level Maths puts students at a disadvantage.

3. Less random selection at 625 points

One change that works in students’ favour is a squeeze at the very top. The number of students securing the highest grades fell from 14% in 2024 to 11% this year.

The aim is to reduce random selection at 625 points. Back in 2020, more than 50 courses went to random choice at the top score. The Leaving Cert Results 2025 show that number falling, which gives students slightly more certainty when aiming for top courses.

Final thoughts on the Leaving Cert Results 2025

The Leaving Cert has always been a tough system, but the 2025 results highlight big issues. This year’s class faces lower averages, unfair competition from repeat applicants, and far less benefit from staying at Ordinary Level in Maths.

For parents and students planning ahead, the lessons are clear:

Leaving Cert Results 2025 will be remembered for one thing: hard-working students up against an uneven playing field.

TJ Hegarty
TJ Hegarty
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