Leaving Cert Cheating Hits Record High: What You Need to Know
Leaving Cert Cheating Hits Record High: What You Need to Know
This year, a record 155 Leaving Cert results have been permanently withheld due to cheating, more than double last year’s 71. A further two results are provisionally withheld pending investigation.
The State Examinations Commission (SEC) takes this extremely seriously. Consequences can include:
- Loss of marks on individual components
- Loss of a full subject result
- Being barred from sitting future exams
What Counts as Cheating?
An important aspect of the increase is the advancement of AI.
Cheating isn’t just using notes in the exam hall, it also covers AI-generated coursework, impersonation, or plagiarised assignments.
With pressure mounting and technology advancing, it’s no surprise the numbers are rising.
What Parents and Teachers Can Do
- With points increasing year on year for courses, students are feeling the pressure.
Help students understand that although important, they are not the only route to success. - Make students aware of the risks and consequences, especially around the use of AI.
- Remind students: every attempt counts, partial marks can be earned for your work, not just the final answer.
The Takeaway
Cheating might feel like a quick fix, but the risk is enormous. Far better to invest in honest, consistent preparation, the kind that builds confidence and integrity alongside results.
Study hard, stay honest.