THOUSANDS of pupils across the north will be hoping all the hard work has paid off as they wake up to their GCSE results this morning.
Around 30,000 students will receive grades, signalling further study or the end of their secondary school careers.
The total number of entries is expected to have fallen from last year, mainly due to a decline in overall pupil numbers.
Almost seven in 10 GCSEs across Northern Ireland, England and Wales could be awarded at least a C grade this year, amid increases in students taking alternative international courses and fewer being entered for exams early, it has been suggested.
Rises in schools opting for international GCSEs, particularly in key subjects like English, could have an impact on this year's grades, according to Professor Alan Smithers of Buckingham University.
Last summer GCSE pupils in the north showed significant improvements in English, Maths and Science.
Those gaining A* to C grades in English rose from 68.8 per cent to 73 per cent, Maths rose 1.6 per cent to 66.2 per cent and Science from 61.5 per cent to 64.8 per cent.
Overall, the number of pupils achieving A* to C grades increased by 1.5 per cent to 78 per cent.
While more boys received A* to C grades, girls continued to outperform them across the board.
Most pupils in the north take papers set by the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) but many schools also opt for exams offered by English boards.
Approximately three-quarters of GCSE entries in the north are with CCEA, which has set up a dedicated help line for students seeking advice and guidance following the results.
Lines will be open from 9am to 5pm and will be in operation until Friday 28th August.
Anyone with queries regarding CCEA’s examination results can call 028 9026 1260, email helpline@ccea.org.uk, or log onto the CCEA website www.ccea.org.uk to search for answers from the Frequently Asked Questions section.
"We recognise that results day can be an anxious time for students, their families and schools. This service can provide useful information to aid decision making about the next steps," said CCEA Examinations Manager Michael Crossan.
