College class divide widens as students face challenges of cost and relocation

"Around 73pc of all Leaving Cert students went to college last year, as financial pressures increase"

"Almost three-quarters of Leaving Cert students are going on to college after second level, but the class divide there is getting wider, the annual Irish Independent feeder school survey reveals."

"Around 73pc went on to third level last year compared with 76pc in 2024."

Almost three-quarters of Leaving Cert students progressed to third-level education last year, with approximately 73% enrolling. That rate declined from 76% in 2024. Financial pressures on students and families have increased, affecting decisions about post‑secondary study. The socioeconomic, or class, divide in progression rates is widening, with fewer students from less advantaged backgrounds making the transition to college. The findings are based on annual feeder school data tracking second-level outcomes. The combined trends indicate that affordability and inequality are playing a growing role in shaping third-level participation.

Read at Independent