Pupils in Aberdeen are being celebrated for their exam success, as the 2025 SQA results highlight a strong year of academic and vocational achievement.
A total of 23,825 presentations were made across Aberdeen schools this year, reflecting both an increase in the number of pupils undertaking SQA Awards and a rise in the number of presentations per pupil at National 5 and Advanced Higher levels. Higher presentations per pupils remained consistent with last year’s figures.
In addition to traditional qualifications, pupils also engaged in a wide range of vocational courses such as National Progression Awards and Foundation Apprenticeships, which are not included in SQA data but form a vital part of the city’s broader attainment picture.
Councillor Martin Greig, convener, Education and Children’s Services Committee, Aberdeen City Council, said: "These results reflect the enormous amount of hard work and commitment given by the pupils in this year's SQA exam process. It's great to see their achievements. They have shown immense dedication and resilience. Everyone wants the best for the young people, so it is good that city schools are able to offer a wide range of diverse learning opportunities to help each individual reach their potential. Thanks should also be given to the teachers, staff, families and friends who have given so much encouragement and support as a community."
Councillor Jessica Mennie, vice-convener, Education and Children’s Services Committee, Aberdeen City Council, said: “These results reflect the dedication and resilience of our young people, as well as the tireless efforts of our teachers and support staff. It’s encouraging to see such strong performance across a wide range of subjects and qualifications, and we remain committed to supporting all our young people in Aberdeen to thrive and succeed.”
Among the 4,501 young people in the Senior Phase (Secondary Year 4 – Secondary Year 6 (S4-S6) who were presented for National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher examinations, the results were highly encouraging:
- 11,367 National 5 presentations, up by 321 from 2024, with an A-C pass rate of 75.3%. Notably, S4 pupils achieved an impressive 78.39% A-C pass rate. Nationally the National 5 A-C pass rate was 78.4%.
- 6,231 Higher presentations, an increase of 287 from 2024, with an A-C pass rate of 72.9%, and S5 pupils achieving 75.34%. Nationally the Higher A-C pass rate was 75.9%.
- 947 Advanced Higher presentations, up by 58 from 2024, with an A-C pass rate of 74.1%. Nationally the Advanced Higher A-C pass rate was 76.7%.
In S4, there were 5.58 National 5 presentations per pupil representing an increase compared to last year and in S5 there were 3.63 Higher presentations per pupil, a slight decrease on last year.
Aberdeen’s attainment success extends beyond traditional qualifications. In 2024, pupils achieved over 1,600 additional passes in Foundation Apprenticeships, National Progression Awards and Skills for Work courses, alongside National Qualifications at Levels 2-4. The number of wider course successes is expected to rise significantly when updated data is released in mid-September 2025.
Results day support including information on certificates and appeals is available on the SQA website.
Whatever your SQA exam results careers advisers at Skills Development Scotland can help. The results helpline 0808 100 8000 is open from 8am until 8pm on Tuesday 5 August and Wednesday 6 August, and from 9am until 5pm on Thursday 7 August and Friday 8 August. There is also help online at www.myworldofwork.co.uk