OVERALL, Scotland’s exam results were the best in around 14 years.

The National 5 pass rate was 81.1%, the Higher pass rate was 78.9% and the Advanced Higher pass rate was 84.9%. In 2019, the National 5 pass rate was 78.2%, the Higher pass rate was 74.8% and the Advanced Higher pass rate was 79.4%.

Speaking after the exam results were published, Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “In the face of an incredibly tough few months for pupils and teachers, we can today celebrate the achievements of all learners.

“Young people have received awards that recognise their hard work and allow them to move onto the next stage in their lives.

“Scottish exams have never before been cancelled. I am immensely grateful to all teachers and lecturers who worked incredibly hard to assess achievement this year, and to the SQA for developing the certification model – without either, young people could not have received qualifications.”

The Education Secretary also said the appeals process would be free this year, it normally cost £39.95 per result for fast-track appeal.

The SQA also pledged to process all submitted appeals by August 14, in time for Ucas to confirm final university places in September.

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Swinney said: “I know that learners who did not achieve what they were expecting will be disappointed. However the SQA will be operating a free appeals process this year.

“The appeals process is an integral part of awarding this year and will play an important role in giving schools and colleges the opportunity to present evidence in support of teacher and lecturer estimates.

“The SQA has ensured that sufficient resources are in place to support this process and priority will be given to learners who need their grades to meet a conditional university or college offer.

“This year has been exceptionally challenging but these robust processes mean we have upheld standards so that all learners can hold their heads up and move onto the next phase in their life, whether that be further study, employment or training.”

The Scottish Government also revealed that the number of acceptances from the 20% most deprived areas in Scotland to UK universities increased to a record high of 4360.

The UCAS data also showed that the number of Scottish students being offered a place at Scottish universities is the second highest on record, up 1% to 28,240.

However, the number of EU students coming to Scotland dropped by 15% to 2670. Non-EU domiciled acceptances to Scottish providers increased by 1% to 2360 – a record high.

Meanwhile, those pupils looking for advice have been urged to contact Skills Development Scotland.

The body runs a free results helpline offering careers advice, information and guidance on 0808 100 8000.