The Leaving Cert may be replaced by predicted grading if it cannot be held safely.
The Education Minister is meeting with his officials and teaching unions this afternoon to discuss all contingency options.
The exams are currently scheduled to be held two months later than usual, but are subject to public health advice.
While a number of back up options are being considered, a Department of Education spokesperson says predicted grading is the most likely Plan B.
Youth Work Ireland's Michael McLoughlin says uncertainty around the exams needs to end.
"Clarity is absolutely critical, we sort of had that for the 29th [of July].
"Remember the government went ahead and published this roadmap - the roadmap made no mention of education.
"Then the opposition has a different view, and parents and students have a different views.
"So again the uncertainty has come back on the table and that's the key issue here, we need to get rid of the uncertainty."
