Of the 6,543 students who sat higher-level agricultural science, 295 (4.5%) have achieved the highest possible grade of H1, which has replaced an A1 at higher level. Since 2017, Leaving Certificate students are graded from one to eight, with one equalling 90% to 100%, two equalling 80% to 90% and so on.

The level taken in the exam, higher, ordinary or foundation will be beside each grade of one to eight.

Results

In total, 57,149 students sat the Leaving Certificate, down 2.4% on the year before. Of this, 7,780 students sat agricultural science with nearly 80% of students opting to sit the higher level paper.

A grade of H3 was the most common result in the higher-level exam, with nearly 19% of candidates achieving this result. Over a third of students received a grade H3 or greater.

A O6 grade was the most common at ordinary level, with 28% of students receiving this mark. It was closely followed by an O5 at 24%.

Appeals

The State Examinations Commission (SEC) has said that this year’s results are broadly in line with those obtained in 2017. They have reminded all candidates that detailed information about viewing their scripts and appealing their results can be found in the 2018 candidate information booklet.

A helpline will be operating from early on 15 August to provide information and advice to students and parents. The helpline number operated by the National Parents’ Council is 1800 265 165