Overview

Mathematics is one of the three core Leaving Cert subjects and is compulsory in nearly all schools. It is available at Higher, Ordinary and Foundation Level. Maths at Higher Level carries a special 25-point bonus, making it the highest-returning subject for CAO points.

Project Maths (The Syllabus)

The current Leaving Cert Maths syllabus is known as Project Maths. It emphasises:

Real-world problem solving and applications
Statistical reasoning and data analysis
Understanding concepts rather than rote memorisation
Extended written answers that show your reasoning

There are five strands, all examined in every paper:

Strand 1: Statistics and Probability
Strand 2: Geometry and Trigonometry
Strand 3: Number and Algebra
Strand 4: Functions and Calculus
Strand 5: Financial Maths (included within other strands)

Exam Structure

Higher Level

Paper 1: 2.5 hours — Algebra, Functions, Calculus, Financial Maths, Sequences & Series
Paper 2: 2.5 hours — Geometry, Trigonometry, Probability, Statistics, Proofs
Both papers have short and long questions. Calculators are allowed (non-programmable)

Ordinary Level

Paper 1: 2.5 hours
Paper 2: 2.5 hours
Syllabus coverage is similar but depth is less. Questions are more structured with fewer multi-step problems

Higher Level Maths Bonus Points

Taking Higher Level Maths and scoring H6 or better earns you 25 bonus CAO points. This is on top of the ordinary points for the grade. For example:

H6 (46 points) → 46 + 25 = 71 points
H5 (56 points) → 56 + 25 = 81 points
H1 (100 points) → 100 + 25 = 125 points

This makes Higher Level Maths the single most valuable subject for your points total. Many students who achieve H5 in HL Maths end up with more points than someone getting H1 in an Ordinary Level subject.

Higher Level vs Ordinary Level: Which Should You Take?

Take Higher Level if: You enjoy Maths, are comfortable with algebra and problem solving, and need or want to keep competitive course options open (engineering, science, medicine, economics, computer science).
Take Ordinary Level if: You find Maths challenging, are aiming for courses that do not require HL Maths, or your time is better spent maximising grades in other Higher Level subjects.
Foundation Level: Suitable for students who need a basic maths qualification but will not use CAO points from it.

Study Strategy

Practice past papers — this is the single most effective study method for Maths. The SEC repeats question styles and themes
Master the calculator — know all the functions on your approved calculator (Casio fx-83/85 series is standard)
Show every step — examiners give partial credit for correct method even if the final answer is wrong
Focus on Strand 1 (Statistics) and Strand 3 (Algebra) — these carry the most marks
Learn proof constructions — Paper 2 often asks for geometric proofs
Form a study group — explaining concepts to others is one of the best ways to solidify your understanding

Common Pitfalls

Not reading the question fully — many students lose marks by answering a different question than asked
Poor time management — spend too long on a hard question and rush the easier ones
Calculator errors — always estimate the answer before trusting the calculator display
Skipping the long-form questions — these are worth 50+ marks each