The number of top grades awarded to A-level students in Northern Ireland has risen. More than 26,000 students in the region received their A-level, AS-level and BTec results on Thursday.
Provisional figures show increase in top grades
The provisional figures show that 30.7% of students received a grade A or above, compared with 30.3% in 2025. They also show that 8.8% of entries achieved the A* grade, compared with 8.7% last year. The total number of A-level entries in Northern Ireland was 33,824.
Overall, 98.9% of students in Northern Ireland achieved A* – E grades, compared with 98.7% in 2025. More than one third (38.2%) of A-level entries in Northern Ireland continue to be in Stem subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Mathematics remains the most popular A-level subject, accounting for one in 10 entries.
AS-level results also show slight improvements
AS-level entries were up from 43,499 in 2025 to 43,582 this year, an increase of 0.2%. In provisional AS outcomes, 27.6% of students achieved grade A, compared with 27.1% in 2025. Overall, 96.6% achieved A – E grades, compared with 96.7% in 2025.
Gerry Campbell, chief executive of Northern Ireland’s exams board the CCEA, congratulated all students who received their results. He said: “This moment marks a significant milestone in your personal and educational journey, and everyone at CCEA recognises the dedication, resilience and hard work that have brought you to this point.”
Officials encourage students to explore options
He added: “As you take your next steps, whether into further education, higher education, training, employment or new opportunities, remember that today’s achievements are important stepping stones towards your future.”
Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald has encouraged students to speak to a careers adviser as they consider their next steps. She said: “I want every young person to be able to learn and to thrive. There are many options open to you as you begin this exciting new chapter in your lives.”
Head of the Careers Service, Justin Kerr, said: “The Careers Service can help explore a range of pathways, with access to up-to-date labour market information on further education, higher education, training and employment opportunities.”
He added: “There is also a wide range of information online to support those conversations and decisions. Students and parents/carers can find information on the nidirect careers website or speak to the Careers Service by calling 0300 200 7820.”
