THE number of students studying A-Level Irish has increased by almost a third compared to numbers from last year.
Figures published by the Joint Council for Qualifications show 375 entries for A Level Irish this summer, compared to 287 last year and 282 in 2024.
Irish is set to overtake Spanish – which remains the most popular language to study in the north (outside of English) – with 416 entries, and has far outstripped other modern languages including French (227) and German (53).
53.9 per cent of those studying Irish obtained an A*-A, in an increase from last year. 240 girls sat the exams, and 135 boys.
The figures appear strong at AS-Level as well, with 672 pupils sitting the exam and 75.9 per cent achieving a grade of A-B. An A* grade is not available at AS-Level.
In total, entries at AS Level and A Level rose from 836 in 2025, to 1,047 in 2026.
Speaking about the figures, the Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Educational Services with Foras na Gaeilge, Conall Ó Máirtín, said the figures showed how much attitudes towards Irish have changed and improved in recent years.
"These figures demonstrate the progress around Irish in recent years. This was also shown in Foras na Gaeilge's recent study on the goodwill, interest and ambition towards Irish from the public in the north.
"We have said for a long time that young people here are interested in the language, and they're searching for opportunities to learn Irish.
"These figures show how strong that goodwill is and how healthy young people's outlook is in terms of the language.
Mr Ó Máirtín said there are several reasons for the surge of interest in Irish amongst young people, not least of which is the growth in Irish-medium education. He also praised the positive impact of social media.
"Social media also has a huge influence on young people, now that they're really getting interested in language and cultural issues.
Mr Ó Máirtín praised the work of other Irish language organisations in promoting and developing the language outside of the education system, such as Conradh na Gaeilge, Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta and Gael Linn. He went on to call for more opportunities for those who want to learn Irish.
"It's no surprise to us that the figures are as high as they are, but the important thing is to make more opportunities available. Not just at A-Level and for people who want to take an exam in Irish, but there must also be opportunities for children to learn Irish outside of the A-Level system.
"We really welcome these figures. We congratulate the students and encourage them to continue on their journey with Irish, and with the fantastic opportunities that are available to them now."
