Leaving Cert pressure is causing stress, burnout and mental health problems among students.
A new ESRI study has spoken to students, parents and teachers at more than 40 secondary schools.
Students criticised the Leaving for "crushing their creativity" because exams rewarded those who could learn off and regurgitate things onto a page.
When asked how things could be improved, students wanted less exam subjects, but a greater choice of subjects.
The findings will inform the National Council for Curriculum and Assessments' review of senior cycle education.
Guidance Counsellor and former President of the Irish Institute of Guidance Counsellors Betty McLoughlin says as the Leaving Cert changes so too should the entry process into third level:
"These young people, if they're saying they are stressed and all the research... would all point to the fact that they find the Leaving Cert very, very stressful.
"They're 16, 17 and 18 years of age - they should be able to enjoy their lives, go out and play sport and have their leisure time as well."
