This year's results are in line with those of previous years.
More than 20,000 students achieved an A in at least one subject.
As this year's results are released, Minister for Education Batt O'Keeffe has asked the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment to look at the possibility of reforming the exam.
Minister O'Keeffe said he was concerned there was too much rote learning and not enough emphasis on project work and other methods of learning.
He has asked the NCCA will look at the international experience of learning for 15-year-olds.
The NCCA is due to report back before the end of the year.
In addition, the minister said he is encouraged by the number of students sitting science at Junior Certificate level, and he hopes students will continue with science to the Leaving Certificate.
The Minister has also urged students to celebrate sensibly this evening.
The results were handed out in schools this morning and they can be accessed online from 4pm.
