Young people across Scotland have received their exam results and initial figures show that ɬ’s results are higher than the national average in National 5 A-D with Higher results in line with the national average.
The figures reflect a more ambitious approach with pupils entering an increased number of SQA qualifications this year. The number of National 5 exams sat by ɬ pupils increased to 4565 from 4325 in 2024. This year also saw an additional 253 Higher entries.
Alongside an increased number of entries, A-C pass rates for ɬ Council have also improved against last year for both National 5 and Higher.
Based on A-C results, the 2025 figures show that:
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National 5 passes increased to 3,530 compared to 3,280 in 2024. The pass rate for 2025 increased to 77.2% from 75.6% last year.
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Higher passes for 2025 increased to 1,780 from 1,570 last year, with an overall pass rate of 73.4% from 72.1%.
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35.6% of all pupils who sat National 5 exams resulted in A grades, an increase of 2.3% from 2024
Based on A-D results, the figures show that:
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89.9% of exams sat resulted in passes at National 5 – 0.3% above the national average
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89.9% of exams sat resulted in passes at Higher – in line with the Scottish national average
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88.2% of exams sat resulted in passes at Advanced Higher – slightly behind the Scottish average
The council’s Policy Lead for Education, Councillor Audrey Forrest, said:
“Congratulations to everyone in ɬ who received their exam results today. I know how hard you have worked over the last year. You should be very proud of yourselves, and have done exceptionally well to achieve what you have.
We are hugely ambitious for our young people and, as reflected in our Education Strategy we want pupils to achieve and thrive. This year, that ambition has resulted in more pupils put forward for SQA qualifications than previous years and an increase in attainment and pass marks across National 5 and Highers. I’m delighted to see an increase in National 5 passes and I’m reassured that we are consistent with the national average for Higher pass rates.
Exam results are just one part of the journey. It’s important to remember there are many different options for positive post-school destinations, including apprenticeships and a range of qualification in school, college and university. Please do not feel disappointed if you didn’t receive the results you wanted. There is plenty of help and support available to you. If you’re unsure about your next step, or would like to talk to someone about your results, please get in touch with your school.”
Today’s figures show just some of the results attainment and achievement data. A further, more detailed report, will go to the council’s Community Services Committee later in the year, with a with full results analysis again in early 2026.
