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.
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 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.
Education minister Paul Givan visited students at Friends’ School Lisburn and said the results across the region were a “demonstration” of the strength of the education system in Northern Ireland.
“It shows Northern Ireland is still performing very well, and for a lot of these young people today, it’s a day of celebration,” he said,
“They’ve got the results that they wanted, and there’s a lot of joy, and rightly after all of the hard work that they have put in to have got to where they’ve got to today, we should celebrate that.
“I know for some young people and families, they haven’t got the results that they’ve wanted, and they’re working through that process.”
In March this year, the minister announced his intention to scrap standalone AS levels, to be replaced by a new modular A-level with three units of assessment taken over two years.
Asked if those changes would continue the trend of rising top grades, Mr Givan said his reforms will ensure Northern Ireland has a “world-class education system”.
“Whenever we compare our performance in international measurements with countries like Singapore and other powerhouses, we’re not performing as well as we can,” he said.
“That’s why we’ve embarked upon the TransformEd reform process with our new curriculum, with a new qualifications framework.
“All these young people have sat the exams based on the current system, which is good, but I believe we can be better. That’s why we’re embarked upon this transformation.
“And in the years ahead, there’ll be a different framework for those qualifications and that new curriculum is out for consultation now, people can have their say on that, but that will allow Northern Ireland to spring forward, so that we are competing on that world stage.
“Because often, big companies they’re looking at how countries perform when it comes to their education system, that determines where they will invest and we need to be competing at a world stage – not just within a Northern Ireland context or within the United Kingdom – but we need to be competing on the world stage and that’s what our transformation process is about.”
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.
“Your achievements reflect the determination and growth you have shown throughout your studies. You should be incredibly proud of what you have accomplished.”
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.”
Northern Ireland Secretary Sir Chris Bryant congratulated students, saying the increase in top A-Level grades reflected “not just your hard work but that of all the teachers and families who have helped you get there”.
“This is an exciting time to build your future in Northern Ireland. There isn’t just one route ahead. There are opportunities in traditional university degrees, Higher-Level Apprenticeships or stepping directly into the workforce,” he said.
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.
“My department’s Careers Service is here to support you with these crucial next steps and help you confidently take the path that is right for you.”
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.
“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.”
Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT, congratulated students receiving results, adding that it is “vital that those coming next have access to a post-16 education system that offers genuine choice and opportunity”.
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