Dr. Emer Smyth:

It is not unusual, though other systems often emphasise the type of subject taken. For example, in Scotland the type of subjects a person has taken matter as well as the grades. We tend to be more unidimensional in focusing on grades than other countries. However, at the same, we have many people reaching leaving certificate level. Other countries, such as Germany, have tracking systems so only a small group would be eligible to even think of going into higher education.