Givan praises Northern Ireland students for impressive GCSE results

Thursday, 20 August 2026 12:23

Education Minister Paul Givan has extended his congratulations to students receiving their GCSE results today. More than 32,000 students received results today with 83.6% achieving grade C/4 and above (83.5% in 2025) while 31.7% received grade A/7 and above (31.6% in 2025). Paul Givan joined the celebrations at Dromore High School and reflected on the achievements of all students: Once again, our young people have shown us just how capable they are. Their hard work,...Request free trial

Education Minister Paul Givan has extended his congratulations to students receiving their GCSE results today.

More than 32,000 students received results today with 83.6% achieving grade C/4 and above (83.5% in 2025) while 31.7% received grade A/7 and above (31.6% in 2025).

Paul Givan joined the celebrations at Dromore High School and reflected on the achievements of all students: Once again, our young people have shown us just how capable they are. Their hard work, dedication and resilience has led to an impressive set of GCSE results for Northern Ireland.

To every young person receiving results today, congratulations and well done. You should be very proud of yourself. I also thank the many teachers and school leaders who have encouraged and supported our young people every step of the way."

The Minister concluded: For anyone who is feeling unsure after today's results, remember that this is only one step on your journey. There are many options for you to explore. Take your time and seek support from your teachers and families and you will find the right pathway.

I wish all our GCSE students the very best for the future, whatever path they choose.

Notes to editors:

Results issued today are for GCSE qualifications.
There is an open qualifications market in Northern Ireland, which means that schools and colleges can choose to offer GCSEs from awarding organisations other than CCEA, such as AQA, OCR, Pearson and (Eduqas). Qualifications delivered in schools must comply with the Department of Education requirements.
The majority of GCSE qualifications taken in Northern Ireland are CCEA qualifications.
CCEA has set up a dedicated results helpline which offers advice and guidance for students who are expecting their results. On GCSE results day, Thursday 20 August, the helpline will open at 9:00am. From Friday 21 August to Wednesday 26 August, the service will operate Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm. Anyone with queries regarding CCEA's results can call 028 9026 1260, email helpline@ccea.org.uk, or visit the CCEA website area for more information - https://ccea.org.uk/students-parents/exams-results-support(external link opens in a new window / tab)