Girls have outperformed boys in the Leaving Certificate exams once again this year.
Data compiled by the State Examinations Commission shows girls achieving more As, Bs and Cs than boys across almost all subjects and levels.
In the three core subjects, English, Irish and Maths, young women are ahead, in some cases significantly.
In Ordinary Level Irish for instance they are 14% more likely to get an A, B or C.
The gap is narrowest in Higher Level Maths, but girls are still ahead, by 1%.
The trend continues even in areas traditionally thought of as more male-orientated.
An analysis of Higher Level papers in subjects such as Applied Maths, Physics, Construction Studies and Agricultural Science shows girls well ahead in all instances.
This is not a new phenomenon and it is not unique to Ireland.
Studies say differing levels of maturity at age 17 or 18 and the fact that girls tend to be better prepared for exams may be partly the cause.
The SEC has also revealed that 47 results have been withheld this year because of suspected cheating by candidates.
This figure is consistent with previous years.
A further 67 subject results are being withheld temporarily while investigations continue.
