Scottish Qualifications Authority
The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA; Gaelic: Ùghdarras Theisteanas na h-Alba) is the executive non-departmental public body of the Scottish Government responsible for accrediting educational awards. It is partly funded by the Education and Lifelong Learning Directorate of the Scottish Government, and employs approximately 750 staff based in Glasgow and Dalkeith.
The logo of the Scottish Qualifications Authority | |
The coat of arms of the Scottish Qualifications Authority, used on certificates | |
| Abbreviation | SQA |
|---|---|
| Established | 1 April 1997 |
| Merger of | Scottish Examination Board and Scottish Vocational Education Council |
| Purpose | Educational |
| Headquarters | Glasgow / Dalkeith |
| Location |
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Official language | English |
Chairman | David Middleton |
Budget | £85 million |
Staff | 750 |
| Website | www |
SQA is best known for the delivery of the annual diet of public examinations within Scotland for school pupils. SQA Higher examinations are the general acceptable level for entry to university, with Scottish universities usually requesting a minimum of 3 Highers, all above C level. However, a greater number of candidates of all ages participate in SQA specialist, vocational and higher education qualifications. SQA is accredited by the UK government to offer educational qualifications.
On 21 June 2021 it was announced that the SQA would be replaced following a review by the OECD. Despite such announcements, the SQA continues to function for the academic year 2023-24 and, as announced 9 March 2022, the authority will not be replaced until 2024.