Reforms to the university entry system have been proposed that would see less focus placed on points.

Under the changes, more weight would be placed on the general performance of Leaving Cert students rather than just their final score.

Universities would also offer individuals more general first-year courses and a reduction to the number of grades available at Leaving Cert is also suggested.

Higher education institutions are currently in discussions with the State Examinations Commission and the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment about the matter.

The reforms would cool the points race for specialised courses and although there would be fewer subject choices for school leavers, there would be more places available on each course.

It was noted that broadening the entry point system would mean a wider range of students would be able to take on a subject initially as pressure would be spread between the final year in school and first year in college.

Written by Donal Walsh

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