The 2026 Qualifications Scotland exam results announced today (Tuesday 4 August) highlight the hard work, dedication and achievements of pupils across Aberdeen.
A total of 24,635 presentations were made across Aberdeen schools this year, reflecting an increase in the number of pupils undertaking Qualifications Scotland (QS) Awards and a rise in the number of presentations per pupil at National 5.ย Higher and Advanced Higher presentations per pupil remained consistent with last yearโs figures.ย
In addition to traditional qualifications, pupils also engaged in a wide range of vocational courses including National Progression Awards and Foundation Apprenticeships, which are not included in Qualifications Scotland data however they form a vital part of the cityโs broader attainment picture.ย
Councillor Martin Greig, convener, of the Education and Childrenโs Services Committee, Aberdeen City Council, said:
Congratulations to all our young people receiving their results today.ย Whether they are progressing to further study, employment, training or another pathway, this marks an important milestone in their journey.ย These achievements reflect the commitment of learners, the support of families and the dedication of staff across our school communities.
Councillor Lee Fairfull, vice-convener, of the Education and Childrenโs Services Committee, Aberdeen City Council, said:
We are proud of the opportunities available to young people in Aberdeen and the success being achieved across a wide range of qualifications.ย Our schools remain focused on helping every learner build the skills, confidence and aspirations they need to succeed in the future.
Among the 4,316 young people in the Senior Phase (Secondary Year 4 โ Secondary Year 6 (S4-S6) who were presented for National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher examinations, the results demonstrated encouraging incremental improvement:
11,605 National 5 presentations, up by 238 from 2025, with an A-C pass rate of 77.03%, up from 75.19% in 2025. The pass rate for National 5 in S4 was 80.56%, up from 78.39% in 2025.ย The national A-C pass rate was 79.2%.
6,732 Higher presentations, an increase of 501 from 2025, with an A-C pass rate of 75.88%, up from 72.54% in 2025.ย The performance of S5 pupils achieving Higher increased by over 4% from 2025 with the figure at 79.36%. Nationally the Higher A-C pass rate was 76.7%.ย
947 Advanced Higher presentations, the same figure as 2025, with an A-C pass rate at 75.40%, an increase from 74.13% in 2025. Nationally the Advanced Higher A-C pass rate was 77.6%.ย
In S4, there were 5.60 National 5 presentations per pupil representing a slight increase compared to last year and in S5 there were 3.74 Higher presentations per pupil, an increase on last year.
Aberdeenโs attainment success extends beyond traditional qualifications.ย Last year (2024-25) young people achieved success in over 3,000 additional presentations at Levels 4 to 7 including HNC qualifications and Foundation Apprenticeships.ย It is projected that the figure for 2025-26 will increase significantly when it is released in September 2026. Exam Results Day support including information on certificates and appeals is available on the Qualifications Scotland website.
Whatever your exam results careers advisers at Skills Development Scotland can help. The results helpline 0808 100 8000 is open from 8am until 8pm on Tuesday 4 and Wednesday 5 August, and from 9am until 5pm on Thursday 6 August and Friday 7 August.ย There is also help online at www.myworldofwork.co.uk.