As my son goes through his transition year, he is in the process of choosing his subjects for the Leaving Cert, due in 2026. He is still uncertain about his next steps after school, hence, it is crucial to ensure he keeps all his options open.
Choosing subjects for the Leaving Cert can pose a challenging task to students. However, if managed well, it can secure the diverse potentials for their future in the summer of 2026.
To understand students’ strengths and interests, most schools assign combination tests of aptitude and interest to all students in the transition year. As a proof, in my career as a guidance counsellor, I have often made use of “Eirquest” tests that aid in identifying the students’ potential and interests. This also helps to highlight the subjects that are in accordance with the students’ prime areas of interest.
From my career experience, I’ve noticed a simple truth: a student’s career choices are often inclined towards where their aptitude scores highest.
I advise students to select subjects they enjoy learning. It is essential to remember that, with the wide variety of career advancement chances available today, it is not wise for students to devote two precious years to a subject they dislike just to achieve a small increase in their CAO points score.
All students, unless excused from Irish, study English, Irish and maths, with the majority also choosing or being required by their school’s schedule to study a foreign language. This leaves your son with three additional optional subjects to choose.
To avoid unintentionally closing off any future course options, your son should explore the subject choice module on the Qualifax website (qualifax.ie). This site offers a comprehensive catalogue of degree courses from Irish tertiary education establishments, along with the requisites for admission including specific grades in specific subjects. This way, you can effortlessly correlate subject requirements to available courses.
Lastly, it is crucial for your son to discuss these subject choices with his school teachers and guidance counsellor. This will provide him with a deeper understanding of the subjects and assist in evaluating his aptitude and interests portrayed in the recent tests.
However, considering that the majority of schools have four fixed principal subjects, my most earnest guidance for students, given the prerequisites for university admission, would be to trust your instincts. Pursue courses that you found engaging during your junior cycle or sampled during your gap year. To keep informed, be sure to follow The Irish Times education section on Facebook and X (Twitter).