If you’re considering an appeal, you should view your script first

ANY student who is unhappy with their results, or is disappointed that they did not achieve an entry requirement necessary to receive an offer for their chosen course, should consider viewing their exam scripts. Examiners have a huge number of scripts to get through, and mistakes can be made in totting up scores, assigning marks or missing part of the script altogether. Students may view as many of their exam scripts as they wish for no charge. This may offer reassurance as to why they have been awarded their particular grade, or they may see a mistake which would give them grounds to appeal their results.

Candidates who collected their results in school should have received two pages in the envelope: one was the results and the other a personalised form, which allows them to apply to view their scripts. A candidate who wishes to view any papers should return the personalised form to the school no later than tomorrow, August 21, indicating which scripts they would like to view.

The scripts will be made available during one of three viewing sessions that will take place at the school from August 31 to September 1.

It is not necessary to view a script before appealing a grade; however, it is strongly advised, as it allows candidates to draw the examiner’s attention to the specific area they would like addressed when appealing (more on this in article below).

The candidate must be present in order to view the script, and no other person may view it on their behalf.

However, the candidate may be accompanied by another person, such as a teacher or parent. To gain the most benefit, it is helpful to invite a person who is familiar with the subject. If a student intends to ask a teacher, they should give them plenty of notice and understand that they may not be available at this time of year or the weekend in question.

The marking scheme will be available at the viewing to assist in understanding how the paper was marked.

During the viewing, the candidate should first check that the grade on their paper is the same as the one they have received on their results. If the grade is different, it may be a result of an administrative error and therefore would not have to go through the normal appeals procedure. If this is the case, the candidate should speak to the organising teacher or principal immediately.

The State Examinations Commission will advise the CAO of the mistake, and offers will be rectified if necessary, but candidates should also consider making a formal appeal, just in case.

Next, the candidate should work through their paper, checking that all sections have been marked and added up correctly.

Then they should check all answers given against the marking scheme. If it is felt that a mistake has been made, they can apply to have the paper rechecked. Oral and practical work will not be available to be viewed, but if a candidate seeks a recheck, they will be re-marked during the appeal process.

This year, candidates may bring a mobile phone, tablet or digital camera to view their script. This will allow them to make and retain a copy of their scripts for reference.

These devices may only be used for this purpose and not for communication or to copy the script of another person. However, pens, paper or writing materials are not allowed at the viewing.

There is some very helpful information on page 21 of the Leaving Cert candidate information booklet which candidates should read before attending the viewing.

This section explains how the papers have been marked by the examiner, etc.