Last updated: July 2026
CAO points are calculated from your six best Leaving Certificate results in a single sitting. Each grade maps to a fixed points value, with Higher Level grades worth more than Ordinary Level. A 25-point bonus is added for Higher Level Maths at H6 or above, giving a maximum of 625 points.
- According to CAO figures, the maximum score is 625 points: up to 600 from your six best subjects plus a 25-point Higher Level Maths bonus.
- On the CAO common points scale, a H1 at Higher Level is worth 100 points while a H5 is worth 56 points.
- According to the CAO, the 25-point Higher Level Maths bonus applies only to grades H6 and above.
Your Subjects
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Tick "HL Maths" on your Higher Level Mathematics subject to include the 25-point bonus (awarded for H6 or above).
CAO Points Grading Scale
Higher Level
| Grade | Percentage | Points |
|---|---|---|
| H1 | 90–100% | 100 |
| H2 | 80–89% | 88 |
| H3 | 70–79% | 77 |
| H4 | 60–69% | 66 |
| H5 | 50–59% | 56 |
| H6 | 40–49% | 46 |
| H7 | 30–39% | 37 |
| H8 | 0–29% | 0 |
Ordinary Level
| Grade | Percentage | Points |
|---|---|---|
| O1 | 90–100% | 56 |
| O2 | 80–89% | 46 |
| O3 | 70–79% | 37 |
| O4 | 60–69% | 28 |
| O5 | 50–59% | 20 |
| O6 | 40–49% | 12 |
| O7 | 30–39% | 0 |
| O8 | 0–29% | 0 |
Frequently Asked Questions
This calculator uses the official CAO common points scale (2017 onwards) and is provided as a guide only. Your official points are determined by the CAO based on your Leaving Certificate results.