High School:

Junior and Senior Courses

High school education is divided into two halves - a course which takes three years and ends with the taking of a Junior Certificate exam, and a two year course which ends with a Leaving Certificate exam. After finishing the first three years and the Junior Certificate, many students voluntarily take an elective "fourth year" where topics of study are not geared so directly to passing the national exams. During this elective year projects and more creative classes are the norm.

Take a look at the exams. I passed the Graduate Record Exam at the end of four years of college, and I was put to the pin of my collar to answer some questions asked of the 15 year olds. Many of the tests take 6 hours (3 in the morning, 3 in the afternoon) and are almost totally essay answers. It's a tremendous challenge, and the kids are constantly hitting the books.

There is more information in the Full Site.

Of particular interest are the Irish language requirements for incoming students. Transition year, out of school grinds and tutorials, vocational schools and more are discussed. Key links are provided.