Record Achievements and STEM Focus
More than 26,000 students across Northern Ireland received their A-level, AS-level, and BTEC results on Thursday, 13 August 2026. Data shows a continued upward trend in academic performance, with 30.7% of A-level entries awarded A* or A grades, a slight increase from 30.3% in 2025. Approximately 8.8% of all entries achieved the top A* grade.
Mathematics remains the most popular subject among students, contributing to a broader trend where over one-third of all A-level entries in 2026 were in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. This trend is mirrored by students like Jack Brannigan, who secured a degree apprenticeship with Rolls Royce, and Mia Bell, who is pursuing mechanical engineering with aspirations of working in Formula 1.
Diverse Pathways Beyond University
While many students are heading to traditional university courses—such as Katie Mulholland, who will begin her medical studies at Queen’s University Belfast—others are diversifying their post-secondary plans. Higher Level Apprenticeships (HLA) are seeing sustained interest, providing an alternative route that combines paid work with professional qualifications. According to the Department for the Economy, over 2,100 students were enrolled in HLAs in Northern Ireland during the 2024/25 period.
Education Minister Paul Givan congratulated students on their achievements, emphasizing that while today is a significant milestone, it is not a “life-defining moment.” He noted that while boys currently outperform girls at the A* grade level, girls continue to hold a higher overall success rate across the A* to C grade range.
Future Reforms and Guidance
The Northern Ireland Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) is preparing for significant structural changes to the qualification system. Starting in 2029, a new two-year modular A-level will replace the existing format, and the separate AS-level qualification will be discontinued. These changes are part of the broader ‘TransformED’ education reform initiative led by the Minister.
For those who did not achieve their expected grades, officials have urged calm. Roisin McCart of Ulster University advised students to utilize the UCAS hub to explore available options and clearing processes. The CCEA has established a results helpline, operating until 26 August, to provide guidance to students navigating their next steps.