Northern Ireland Sees Increase in Top GCSE Grades for 2025

The number of students in Northern Ireland achieving top grades in their GCSE examinations has increased for the year 2025. On results day, provisional figures revealed that 31.6% of pupils obtained grades of 7 or above, equivalent to an A grade, a rise from 31.0% in 2024. Additionally, 83.5% of students secured a grade C/4 or higher, marking an improvement from 82.7% in the previous year.

Despite the increase in achievement, the total number of GCSE entries in Northern Ireland decreased by 1.1%, dropping from 175,555 in 2024 to 173,675 in 2025. The performance in key subjects demonstrated encouraging trends as well. In GCSE English language, 25.1% of students achieved A/7 and above, up from 24.7% last year. Furthermore, 84.0% of students received a grade C/4 or above, compared to 82.5% in 2024.

In mathematics, the results showed a slight decline as 27.1% of students attained an A/7 grade and above, down from 27.8% in the prior year. Nevertheless, 73.1% of candidates achieved a grade C/4 or higher, consistent with the 73% figure from 2024. Notably, 41.4% of all GCSE entries were in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects.

Celebrating Student Achievements

Gerry Campbell, Chief Executive of the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA), commended the students for their achievements. “Congratulations to all the students receiving their GCSE results today,” he stated. “These results represent the hard work, resilience, and determination you’ve shown throughout your studies, and you should be proud of everything you’ve achieved.”

Campbell emphasized that this milestone serves as a pivotal moment for students as they contemplate their next steps—whether continuing education, entering training, or pursuing employment. He also expressed gratitude to teachers, school leaders, and examiners for their essential roles in supporting student success.

The results day follows a week of significant assessments, as more than 25,000 students in the region received their AS and A-level examination results, with 30.4% of entries achieving the top A* to A grades.

Guidance for Future Pathways

Caoimhe Archibald, the Economy Minister for Northern Ireland, urged students and their families to utilize the advice provided by the department’s Careers Service. “Making informed decisions following your exam results is crucial in helping you consider the next step on your journey,” she remarked.

Archibald encouraged students to explore various opportunities, whether that involves remaining in school, pursuing further education, engaging in apprenticeships, or entering the workforce. She emphasized that the Careers Service is available to assist students in navigating their options.

As students celebrate their achievements, the results highlight a mix of progress and challenges within the educational landscape of Northern Ireland. The increase in top grades reflects the dedication of students and educators alike, while the slight decrease in overall entries prompts consideration of future strategies to engage more learners in the GCSE process.