SQA results day 2025
Pupils across Aberdeenshire have today (Tuesday) received their SQA assessment results.
Across the shire, 6,479 pupils took a total of 30,021 exams across a total of 74 different subjects.
Of those, 121 pupils achieved five straight A passes at Higher in S5; 78 pupils achieved more than three Advanced Higher Awards in S6, and 1,781 S4 pupils gained five qualifications at National Five level.
The overall pass rate for National two, three and four remained at 100% while National Five went from 78% to 82%, Higher went from 73% to 77% and Advanced Higher went from 70% to 72%.
Aberdeenshire Council’s Director of Education Laurence Findlay said: “I’d like to say a huge congratulations to all our young people who received their results today.
“Our early analysis shows a positive performance for many of our pupils and today is about congratulating them for all their hard work - from us all at the education team, we’re really proud of the work and efforts of our schools and our young people.”
Foundation Apprenticeship, of which Aberdeenshire is a leading provider in Scotland, results are once again very strong and significantly above the national average.
The demand for FAs continued to increase with Aberdeenshire having the largest delivery of FAs in Scotland.
Over 800 students benefited from the FA courses and the opportunities they provide by raising attainment and improving positive destinations.
Head of Education Susan Smith said: “I would like to say very well done to all our young people receiving results today and to acknowledge their efforts and those of the staff, parents and carers who have supported them to achieve.
“We are pleased with this year’s exam results, with early analysis indicating an increased overall pass rate in National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher courses. Our pupils can be confident their qualifications will provide them with a strong foundation for the next stage in their learning, training, or employment.
“It is also encouraging to see the number of young people who have successfully undertaken Foundation Apprenticeships this year. The positive impact of Foundation Apprenticeships is readily seen in the development of a range of skills, increased pupil engagement and confidence and better attainment overall.”
Early analysis of the SQA figures shows this year’s pass rate:
• National 2 remaining at 100%
• National 3 remaining at 100%
• National 4 remaining at 100%
• National 5 going from 78% to 82%
• Higher going from 73% to 77%
• Advanced Higher going from 70% to 72%
In terms of wider exam attainment across Aberdeenshire, an initial analysis of the results across Aberdeenshire shows:
• 44% of S4 pupils achieved five or more at SCQF level five (A-C)
• 34% of S5 pupils achieved three or more at SCQF level six (A-C)
• 27% of S6 pupils achieved five or more at SCQF level six (A-C)
Education and Children’s Services Committee chair Cllr David Keating said: “Congratulations to all our pupils, and those who supported them, both their families, and our teachers in academies across Aberdeenshire.
“All of our pupils should be extremely proud of their achievements and I wish you all the very best in the next stage whether learning, training, or employment.
“For anyone who is feeling as though they haven’t done as well as they might have hoped, please don’t be discouraged.
“Exam results are not the be-all and end-all and they do not define your future or limit your potential for success.
“There absolutely will be other opportunities for you, despite what we sometimes infer, this was not the only chance that you will get.
“There are many paths and opportunities to be had and we can provide you with a wide range of support, advice and guidance to help you identify the one that is best for you.”
For any young person interested in undertaking a Foundation Apprenticeship, visit: https://www.apprenticeships.scot/become-an-apprentice/foundation-apprenticeships/
Skills Development Scotland is once again running its results helpline on 0808 100 8000. The organisation’s expert advisors can help pupils explore their options and provide career advice and guidance.
You can also visit the Developing the Young Workforce website at www.dyw.scot/no-wrong-path #NoWrongPath aims to show young people the options that are available to them.