SOLAR is SQA's online e-assessment system. Your lecturer will direct your learning when using SQA SOLAR.
Not all courses use SOLAR for assessment. If you are required to use it, your lecturer will take you through the process.
Your lecturer will have set up the appropriate test for you/ your class in advance of the assessment (SOLAR call them 'tests'). They will use your Scottish Candidate Number (SCN), and the result is recorded in the SQA system.
Each student usually has a maximum of 2 attempts to sit a test (3 in exceptional circumstances).
Accessibility: Most tests are delivered in an Internet browser (Edge, Chrome) and use the browser Accessibility features, e.g., 'Read aloud'. There are also some additional accessibility options in the test. If you are concerned, speak to your lecturer in advance.
Watch the how to sit an SQA test video, or use the written instructions below.
Written instructions for sitting an SQA test:
Each student sitting a test, will be given a Unique Keycode from their lecturer, to access a specific test.
Open the SQA SOLAR Website homepage.
Click the Enter Keycode button on the homepage.
A new tab or window will open, enter your Unique Keycode to access the test.
After you enter the keycode you will be asked to confirm your name and test information click the Confirm button.
A confirmation box will open asking you to agree to the SQA's terms and conditions, check the agree box then START the test.
When you have completed the test, the system with prompt you to confirm your submission multiple times, make sure you click FINISH. Do not close the browser window until you have clicked Finish.