How Leaving Cert Maths Is Marked: Grades, Method Marks & CAO Points
Leaving Cert Maths is marked using attempt marks, partial credit and method marks — you earn marks for correct steps even if your final answer is wrong. Grades run from H1 (90%+) to H8 (under 30%).
The marking structure
Every Leaving Cert Maths question is marked using three types of credit: attempt marks (awarded for showing any relevant work), method marks (awarded for correct mathematical steps), and accuracy marks (awarded when the answer is correct). This means that even a wrong final answer can earn the majority of the marks if the working is shown.
How grades are calculated
Your raw mark across both papers is converted to a percentage and then a grade. Higher Level Maths uses the H1–H8 scale: H1 (90%+), H2 (80–89%), H3 (70–79%), H4 (60–69%), H5 (50–59%), H6 (40–49%), H7 (30–39%), H8 (under 30%). Grades H1 through H6 qualify for the 25 bonus CAO points.
Why you should always show your work
Because method marks exist, showing every step — even when you are unsure — is always the right strategy. A blank answer line earns zero; an attempt with the right structure can earn several marks. This is one of the most reliable exam-technique habits to build. See our guide on how to get a H1 for more exam technique advice.
CAO points from Higher Level Maths
Higher Level Maths grades convert to CAO points as follows, including the 25 bonus points where applicable: H1 = 125, H2 = 113, H3 = 101, H4 = 89, H5 = 77, H6 = 71, H7 = 37 (no bonus), H8 = 0. For the full breakdown of which grades qualify for the bonus, see our bonus points guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do you get marks for attempting a question on the Leaving Cert?
Yes. Attempt marks are awarded for showing relevant work, even if your approach is incomplete or your final answer is wrong. Never leave a part blank.
What are method marks in Leaving Cert Maths?
Method marks reward correct mathematical steps and working. If you set up the problem correctly but make an arithmetic error, you can still earn most of the marks.
How does the Leaving Cert grading scale work for maths?
Leaving Cert Higher Maths is graded H1 to H8. H1 is 90% and above, H2 is 80–89%, and so on down to H8 which is below 30%. Each grade band maps to a CAO points value.
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