Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA)

The SQA provide products and services in skills, training and education which positively impact on individuals, organisations and society.

SQA’s functions are set out in the Education (Scotland) Act 1996 as amended by the Scottish Qualifications Act 2002.

The organisation has two main roles: accreditation, and awarding qualifications.

SQA Accreditation

  • accredits qualifications other than degrees
  • approves, and quality assures awarding bodies that plan to enter people for these qualifications

Find out more about SQA Accreditation

SQA Awarding Body

  • devises and develops qualifications
  • validates qualifications (makes sure they are well written and meet the needs of learners and tutors)
  • reviews qualifications to ensure they are up to date
  • arranges for, assists in, and carries out, the assessment of people taking SQA qualifications
  • quality-assures education and training establishments which offer SQA qualifications
  • issues certificates to candidates

Within these roles the SQA offer a range of services for businesses and training providers, ranging from course and centre approval through customised awards, to endorsement, credit rating and licensing services.