THE level of attainment for Scottish youngsters has increased, the latest exam results have shown, as more than 147,000 students received their results on Tuesday.
Figures released by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) today showed the level of attainment across National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher levels increased in 2025 compared to last year.
The rate of pupils achieving between an A and a C at National 5 increased from 77.2% to 78.4% while Higher jumped from 74.9% to 75.9% and Advanced Higher from 75.3% to 76.7%.
Along with the increase in pass rates, the poverty-related attainment gap – the difference between the A-C rate for those from the 20% of the most deprived areas of Scotland compared to the most affluent – also shrank.
In 2016, then-First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said her government would push to substantially reduce the attainment gap by 2026, writing in that year’s Programme for Government document that elimination of the gap was “a yardstick by which the people of Scotland can measure our success”.
Following the news the SNP said they remain committed to building a “world class education system” that equips young people for life, work, and further learning
Jackie Dunbar, [[SNP]] MSP for Aberdeen Donside, welcomed the increase in the level of attainment and said the party will continue to tackle inequality while investing in the future of every learner across Scotland.
She said: “Today’s results are cause for celebration for the young people receiving their results, as well as their families, teachers, and communities across Scotland. The rise in attainment and narrowing of the poverty-related gap shows that the SNP’s investment in education is making a difference where it matters most.
“Record numbers of pupils are now achieving vocational and technical qualifications, which reflects the SNP’s focus on ensuring every young person has a pathway that suits their skills and aspirations. This SNP Government has invested in a diverse, inclusive education system, and today’s achievements show that approach is working.”
Dunbar added: “I’m incredibly proud of what our young people and our schools have achieved. While there is still more to do, today’s results make clear that the SNP is closing the attainment gap and supporting all learners.”
Following the results delivered to around 147,000 pupils across Scotland on Tuesday, a record number of young Scots have secured places at university.
Statistics released by the university and college admission body Ucas show 17,350 17 and 18-year-olds will be admitted this year, compared to 16,650 last year.
The number of those from the most deprived backgrounds is also at its highest, at 2060.
The total number of applicants from Scotland who secured a place at university this year fell compared to the figure for 2024, from 31,970 to 31,850, as a result of a decline in mature student applications.
Some 3660 students are set to come from abroad – an increase from 3480 from last year.
Dr Jo Saxton, chief executive of Ucas, said: “I’m delighted to see record numbers of young people in Scotland accept a place at university or college via Ucas this year.
“Today’s figures also show record numbers of accepted students aged 17 and 18 from the most disadvantaged backgrounds.
“This is testament to the tremendous efforts being made to support widening access to higher education in Scotland.”
