ACCS/Info Bulletin 25/25

24th October 2025.

The Secretary,
Board of Management and
School Principal in
each Community and Comprehensive School.

Members of the Executive of ACCS.

ACCS/Info Bulletin 25/25.

 

Re: SEC 2026 RACE Application Process.

  • Hard copies of the RACE Instructions for Schools and application forms will be distributed to schools immediately after the October mid-term break.

  • Schools should proceed with issuing the 2026 RACE Instructions for Schools to relevant staff and ensure that application forms are distributed to eligible candidates promptly after the October mid-term break.

  • It is important to communicate the application deadlines - 21 November for Leaving Certificate candidates and 12 December 2025 for Junior Cycle candidates—to students and parents as soon as possible.

 

Review of the RACE Scheme

  • The SEC is conducting a comprehensive review of the RACE Scheme, considering best international practice, Senior Cycle redevelopment, and special educational needs policy developments.

  • No adjustments to the RACE Scheme for the 2026 exams have been confirmed, but the SEC is assessing eligibility for a pilot expansion of additional time for certain candidates already eligible for RACE.

  • The pilot scheme for additional time will involve collaboration with NEPS and NCSE and will not be limited by school or location, following a similar approach to recent changes for vision impaired candidates.

  • Schools should monitor updates from the SEC regarding any changes or pilot schemes, and remain engaged with ongoing communications to ensure the needs of all eligible candidates are met.

 

Is mise,
le mór mheas,

Áine O’Sullivan,
GENERAL SECRETARY.
ACCS

Info Bulletin, Info BulletinsDavid Cahill