Understanding the Irish Leaving Certificate: A Guide for International Students and Parents

HSI Blogger
May 20
3 min read

What Is the Irish Leaving Certificate?

The Leaving Certificate is a two-year programme culminating in a series of examinations taken by students typically aged 17–18. It assesses knowledge across various subjects and is the standard pathway to third-level education in Ireland. The Leaving Certificate can be used as the university entrance qualification for all universities in Ireland and the United Kingdom, and many others worldwide.

Structure of the Leaving Certificate

Students usually select six to eight subjects, with English, Irish, and Mathematics being core subjects. However, exemptions for Irish apply to international students. Subjects are offered at different levels: Higher, Ordinary, and Foundation (available for Irish and Mathematics).

Assessments include written exams, oral and aural tests, and practical evaluations, depending on the subject. For instance, language subjects often have oral components, while sciences may include practical assessments.

The CAO Points System and University Admissions

The Central Applications Office (CAO) manages applications to Irish higher education institutions. Students' performance in the Leaving Certificate exams translates into CAO points, which are used to determine eligibility for university courses.

Points are calculated based on the best six subjects, with Higher Level subjects offering more points. For example, a Higher Level grade H1 (90–100%) earns 100 points, while an Ordinary Level grade O1 (90–100%) earns 56 points. An additional 25 points are awarded for passing Higher Level Mathematics.

Universities set minimum point requirements for each course, and admission is competitive. Therefore, achieving higher grades in the Leaving Certificate increases the likelihood of securing a place in the desired programme.

Implications for International Students

For international students considering studying in Ireland, it's important to understand that the Leaving Certificate is a two-year programme, typically taken in the final two years of secondary school (known as 5th and 6th year). It plays a key role in university admissions through the CAO points system and is highly regarded by third-level institutions in Ireland and abroad.

Students who join an HSI high school exchange programme in 5th Year and stay for the full two years can complete the full Leaving Certificate, opening doors to a wide range of higher education options in Ireland and across Europe. Taking the Leaving Cert within the Irish school system not only helps students achieve recognised academic qualifications, but also gives them valuable time to develop English fluency, adapt to Irish culture, and build a strong academic foundation for university life.

While some international students may apply to Irish universities using equivalent qualifications from their home countries, those who complete the Leaving Cert in Ireland often benefit from a more streamlined and competitive route to admission. To explore the best pathway, it’s essential to consult with educational advisors or the HSI team to understand how various qualifications align with Irish university entry requirements.

Conclusion

The Irish Leaving Certificate is a comprehensive assessment that plays a vital role in shaping students' academic futures. For international students and their families, understanding its structure and implications is crucial for successful integration into the Irish education system and for making informed decisions about higher education pathways.

Summary

The Leaving Certificate is Ireland's final secondary school examination, crucial for university admissions.
It involves assessments across multiple subjects, including written, oral, and practical components.
The CAO points system translates exam results into points used for university course eligibility.
International students should seek guidance to align their qualifications with Irish admission requirements.