More NI Students Achieve Top A-Level Grades

More students in Northern Ireland have achieved top A-level grades this year, compared to 2015.

Overall, A* or A grades were achieved in 29.5% of A-level entries. This is 0.2% more than last year, while the overall A* – E pass rate remained the same as 2015; that is, 98.2%.

Again, girls have outperformed boys in achieving top grades; figures show that girls achieved A* or A grades in 31.3% of entries, compared to 27.2% of entries from boys.

Elsewhere, the number of girls taking STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) has increased, with mathematics now the most popular A-level subject, accounting for 10.6% of entries.

The other most popular subjects are Biology, History, English and Religious Studies.

There was a decline in the number of students choosing subjects such as French, Drama and Music.

Students were able to discover their grades online from 7am, but many returned to their schools to receive their results. Some schools also posted the results to their students.

More than 28,000 students in NI have already applied to university and will have their place confirmed if they get the grades they need. Others will be pursuing options including apprenticeships, employment, entry into further education, or a gap year.

Queen's University Belfast (QUB) and Ulster University (UU) will operate telephone enquiry lines for applicants.

UU's enquiry line is 02870 287 028 and can be contacted today. The university will also hold an advice day at all four of its campuses on Friday, 19 August.

QUB's enquiry line is on 02890 973 838 and operates from 9.30am to 6pm today and tomorrow.

(JP/MH)