2nd February 2026
SQA has officially been replaced by a new body called Qualifications Scotland. As of today, Qualifications Scotland has become fully operational with statutory authority.
Transition from SQA to Qualifications Scotland
The Education (Scotland) Act 2025 created a new national public body called Qualifications Scotland to take over the role previously held by the SQA.
While Qualifications Scotland legally existed from December 2025, it becomes fully operational from today, 1 February 2026 — starting to exercise its formal responsibilities for awarding and accrediting qualifications.
The functions previously done by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) — such as setting exams, awarding National Qualifications (e.g., National 5s, Highers) and accrediting qualifying bodies — are now carried out by Qualifications Scotland.
What this means for learners, teachers and schools
No immediate disruption to studies — courses, assessments, and exams being delivered this year continue as planned.
Existing materials, guidance and support resources remain valid and will eventually be rebranded under Qualifications Scotland.
Email addresses, websites and brand identities will gradually shift to the new Qualifications Scotland name.
Why this change happened
The change reflects broader education reform in Scotland:
Qualifications Scotland has been established as a fresh, learner-focused awarding body with a stronger emphasis on involving teachers and students in how qualifications are developed and improved.
The aim is to address long-standing concerns about how qualifications and assessment are governed, following criticisms of the former SQA system and a major reform programme in Scottish education.
Some educators, unions and observers think the change might be mostly symbolic or "window dressing" unless the new body truly improves:
The credibility of qualifications
Teacher involvement in assessment design
Trust between schools and the awarding authority
Whether Qualifications Scotland ends up delivering that deeper change rather than just a new name and board is something people are still debating as it starts operating this year.