Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 April 2026
1383. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will consider continuing the waived exam fees for students sitting the Junior and Leaving Certificate exams in light of the cost-of-living and energy crises; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25266/26]
View answerAs part of Budget 2026, the Government has confirmed that examination entry fees will be reintroduced for the 2026 State exams.
These fees are being restored at their previous levels, unchanged since 2012.
• €116 for Leaving Certificate candidates
• €109 for Junior Cycle candidates
Crucially, protections remain in place. Any student with a full medical card, or covered under a parent or guardian’s card, will continue to be fully exempt.
This approach strikes a fair balance, maintaining support for those who need it most while restoring a long-standing contribution towards the cost of running the examinations system.
Schools and candidates have already been notified, and the payment portal opened on 19 March. The SEC has also provided schools and candidates with contact details for those who are having difficulty using the Online Fees service. We are ensuring the process is straightforward, transparent, and well signposted, with full details available through the State Examinations Commission at www.stateexaminations.ie
