In 2013/2014 the SQA introduced new National Qualifications. 

Access 1 and Access 2 Awards were replaced by National 1 and National 2 awards.

Access 3 and Standard Grade Foundation level were replaced by National 3.

Intermediate 1 and Standard Grade General level were replaced by National 4.

Intermediate 2 and Standard Grade Credit level were replaced by National 5.

Highers and Advanced Highers were replaced by updated versions of the courses.

All National 1, 2, 3 and 4 assessments will be marked and assessed by the class teacher and verified by another subject teacher.  The SQA will check assessments to ensure that teacher judgements are consistent and meet national standards. National 1, 2, 3 and 4 qualifications will be graded as ‘pass’ or ‘fail’.

National 4 courses are made up of Units, including an Added Value Unit. In order to achieve a course qualification at National 4, learners need to pass all Units, plus an Added Value Unit assessment.

In order to achieve a course award at National 5, Higher and  Advanced Higher pupils need to pass a course assessment. The course assessments can include:

  • end of course exam
  • assignment
  • case study
  • practical activity
  • performance
  • portfolio
  • project

Courses at National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher will be graded A to D, or ‘No Award’.

The units for National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher are now seperate qualifications from the course award.  Pupils may be entered for units only, course award only or a combination of the two.