Context

In response to the cancellation of the 2020 exam diet, SQA developed an alternative certification model for 2020 to ensure that the hard work of Scotland’s learners is fully recognised. The alternative certification model allowed SQA to award grades to all learners entered for National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher courses as fairly and reliably as possible, across subjects and levels. The alternative certification model is based on lecturers’ estimates which have been moderated by the college and SQA. The process may lead to a candidate or group of candidates being certificated with a grade that’s different from their estimated grade. To be as fair as possible to candidates, SQA are providing a post-certification review (appeals) service to allow centres to request a review of the grade awarded for a candidate or a group of candidates.

How does post-certification review work?

Post-certification is carried out by SQA examiners at the request of a centre. It involves a review of candidate evidence, including any completed coursework components that were submitted in the March uplift, for an eligible candidate or group of candidates identified by the centre. A candidate is eligible for review only when they have been awarded a lower grade than the grade estimated by their centre. A successful post-certification review request will result in a change of grade only — a change in band is not a feature of the review. Post-certification review is available for National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher Courses in 2020 only.

Centres will be able to request one of two post-certification review types:

• A Priority Review
• A Review

Priority reviews are for candidates with a conditional university or college offer.

Key Dates

Priority Reviews:

• Tuesday, 4 August 2020 - Request service opens
• Friday, 14 August 2020 - Deadline for submission of Priority Review requests
• Friday, 4 September 2020 - Issue outcomes to Centres/HEIs/UCAS

Reviews:

• Tuesday, 4 August 2020 -Request service opens
• Friday, 21 August 2020 - Deadline for submission of requests
• Date TBC** - Issue outcomes to Centres 

**There is no date for conclusion as this will depend on volumes received.

If you decide that you would like to request either a Priority Review or Review you must contact the College without delay by calling 0141 951 7504.

Further information on the Post-Certification Review Service can be found at the SQA Website.