One in 10 students who sat higher-level history for their Junior Certificate this year failed the exam.
Some 65,000 students will get their exam results later this morning, with more than 4,000 failing the history paper.
It comes days after Education Minister Joe McHugh announced the subject will become mandatory in the junior cycle.
He has congratulated students who are getting their results: "Congratulations to everyone on your achievements in Junior Cycle and best of luck.
"These last few years in school will have given you a solid foundation for your future studies.
"And it should be remembered that results day is just one day of many in your continuing education.
"I would like to thank all the teachers, principals, school staff, the mothers and fathers and guardians who have been a steady hand as young people prepared for their exams."
Meanwhile, Gardaí say they're adopting "a zero tolerance approach" to anyone found behaving in an anti-social manner.
It says additional Gardaí will be patrolling this evening, and will be in uniforms and plain clothes.
Candidates can also access their results online from 4.00pm on www.examinations.ie
