Exam results wait ends for students

Aug 7 2012

Almost 160,000 students across Scotland are receiving their exam results, with record numbers passing Highers.

More of the exams were completed than last year and the pass rate also increased, going from 75.2% in 2011 to 76.9% in 2012.

The pass rate for Advanced Highers rose from 79.3% to 80.1% and for Standard Grades the rate was higher too, increasing by 0.4 percentage points to 98.9%.

But students sat fewer Standard Grade exams this year, with a total of 319,986 completed in 2012 compared to 386,857 four years ago.

Overall, the number of candidates for all exams fell slightly, going from 159,744 in 2011 to 158,908 this year. Those students will find out how they have done, with exam certificates posted out to their homes. In addition, 35,084 students will discover their results by text and/or email after signing up for the service.

Dr Janet Brown, chief executive of the Scottish Qualifications Authority, said: "The increased number of qualifications achieved by candidates not only reflects their hard work and commitment, but also the value they place on qualifications, particularly in this difficult economic climate."

She stated: "I want to congratulate everyone and whether they will be returning to school or college, moving on to higher education or entering the workplace, I wish them continued success."

Education Secretary Mike Russell also congratulated students on their results. Mr Russell, who is visiting his former school, Marr College in Troon, Ayrshire, said: "This has been another successful year which is testament to the hard work that pupils have put into their courses."

He added: "Of course, as well as being a time of celebration for many, this is also a time of uncertainty for others. Rest assured, help is available through the exam results helpline on 0808 100 8000 for those who may not have got what they needed."

There were 181,568 Higher exams completed in a total of 66 different subjects. English was the most popular, with 29,683 students sitting the exam, while just eight took classical Greek. Students sat more Advanced Highers then last year, with 21,587 entries compared to 21,414 in 2011.