Leaving Cert students will have to wait until Friday the 3rd of September for their results this year.

The delay may mean some colleges will have to push the beginning of first year from mid to late-September.

The results are traditionally released in mid-August.

This year’s students have the option of receiving ‘Accredited Grades,’ sitting the written exams or both.

Those who choose both options will be awarded the better result in each subject.

The results are being released later than usual to allow time for the dual assessment system.

College offers are expected to be released the week after the results.

The Education Minister Norma Foley said “the usual helplines and supports will be in place for students on results day and beyond.”

“I will be in contact with schools asking them to ensure that guidance support is available to students at this time,” she said.

“I would like to take this opportunity once again to stress how important it is that students taking the examinations continue to follow the public health advice and limit their contacts as the examinations approach and during the examination period.

“I wish all Leaving Certificate students taking the written examinations well, in their final preparations this week.”

Some 91% of students have opted to sit the exams in at least one subject.

The written examinations begin on Wednesday June 9th and will run until June 29th.