Jul 30

New Junior Cycle Grading System - 2026 Students

In March 2025, significant changes for Junior Cycle students and their families were announced. The Department of Education officially introduced an updated grading system for the Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement (JCPA). If you’re a parent or student wondering what this means for you, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

Up to now, Junior Cycle results were awarded using broader descriptors like Distinction, Higher Merit, Merit, and so on. While these grades aimed to reduce stress and promote learning over rote performance, many found the system lacked clarity—especially when transitioning to Senior Cycle or applying for TY programmes.

In 2025, a more detailed points-based grading scale has been introduced, similar to the Leaving Certificate structure. This aims to give students a clearer picture of their performance while maintaining the holistic values of the Junior Cycle.

"In 2025, a more detailed points-based grading scale has been introduced, similar to the Leaving Certificate structure."

Descriptor                    Old Grade Bands              New Grade Bands
Distinction                            90 - 100%                                85 - 100%
Higher Merit                         75 - 90%                                  70 - 85%
Merit                                      55 - 75%                                  55 - 70%            Achieved                               40  - 55%                                 40 - 55%              Partially Achieved                20 - 40%                                  20 - 40%              Not Graded (NG)                   0 - 20%                                      0 - 20%
                                        
                                          
Why the Change?
Clarity: The numeric grading offers more precise feedback on a student’s performance.

Continuity: It creates a smoother transition between Junior Cycle and Leaving Certificate assessment styles.

Fairness: Students are rewarded more accurately for the effort they put in, especially those working within a close grade band.

Preparation: It helps parents, teachers, and schools make better-informed decisions around subject choices, learning supports, and TY placements.

What This Means for Students & Parents

Progress Tracking: Students can now track improvement more clearly over time.


Target Setting: At The Tuition Centre, we help students set realistic goals using the new grades.


Parental Insight: Parents can better understand strengths and areas for improvement, based on more detailed results.