Qualifications Explained

Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF)

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework, or SCQF, is a way to understand and compare the level of study of different subjects in terms of their difficulty, time required, amount of material, and so on.

• Read more about the SCQF →

• Compare awards on the scale →

• See how previous awards like O-Levels compare to current awards →

The SCQF diagram below helps you understand the 12 levels of study in Scottish Education which extends to Doctorate study at SCQF Level 12. The Framework below helps you compare different types of qualifications on offer at each level. 

You can compare how old qualifications relate to new qualifications in terms of difficulty by reading the information below.

The Guide to Scottish Qualifications booklet will let you know the difference between qualification types. The qualification types most relevant to pupils at Fortrose Academy are:

• National Qualifications e.g. National 3, National 4, National 5, Higher, Advanced Higher

• National Progression Awards (NPAs)

• Foundation Apprenticeships (FAs)

• Skills for Work Awards

• Higher National Certificates (HNCs)

Which level to study?

Moving into S4: Your class teachers in S3 will discuss with you the recommended level of study in S4.

Already studied for a Qualification:

• If you have studied National 3 this year then National 4 is your next level.

• If you have studied National 4 this year then National 5 is your next level.

• If you have studied National 5 this year then Higher is your next level.

• If you have studied Higher this year then Advanced Higher is your next level.

CAUTION: Your final overall grade in a subject cannot be the sole determinant of success at the next level. Some subjects will give you advice on which elements of your grades you should look to in order to indicate future success. It is essential that you pay attention to this advice in looking at future levels.

In addition teachers will consider your enthusiasm, maturity, potential and the work demands from your other choices before recommending which level you should take.

Assessment and Grading: National 3 and National 4

Unit assessments - all must be passed to achieve an overall Course Award. At National 4, there is also an Added Value Unit to pass.

There is no final exam - simply pass or fail.

Assessment and Grading: National 5, Higher, and Advanced Higher

• Internal assessments to judge pupil progress.

• Course Assessment (usually marked by SQA and form a range of methods such as Assignment, case study, practical activity, performance, portfolio, project, question paper/test).

• Graded A - D or No Award.

In exceptional circumstances where a pupil is NOT on track to pass final Course Assessments - credit can be given for unit passes ONLY or you may be able to switch to an alternative award such as a National Progression Award in that subject area.