In 2024, 86 Leaving Cert results were withheld, compared to just 39 the previous year. Similarly, 24 Junior Cycle exam results were permanently withheld, more than twice the 10 cases recorded in 2023.

The SEC did not disclose specific breaches but stated that results were withheld for various reasons, including possession of notes and unauthorized use of mobile phones or other electronic devices such as smartwatches in exam halls.

Some cases involved students including “extraneous material” in their exam scripts, while others were flagged due to near-identical answers between different candidates.

The SEC emphasized the confidentiality of the exam process and, for that reason, only released overall figures without details on schools or student demographics.

For the 2024 Leaving Cert, in addition to the 86 permanently withheld results, 12 were provisionally withheld pending further communication with the schools and students involved.

Strict exam regulations prohibit students from bringing notes or electronic devices, assisting others, copying, or attempting to communicate with anyone outside the exam hall.

An SEC spokesperson stressed that clear procedures are in place to investigate and address non-compliance.

“In the interest of fairness, the SEC must ensure that all marks awarded are earned legitimately and will investigate any suspicion, suggestion, or allegation of cheating,” they said.

“This is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the Irish State examinations system and ensuring all candidates can demonstrate their achievements on a level playing field.”

The most common penalty is withholding marks in a specific subject, but in more severe cases, all results may be withheld, or students may be barred from retaking exams.