Scottish exam results: Record number of University places gained

A record number of Scottish pupils have gained a university place on exam results day, according to UCAS.

After Scottish Qualifications Authority results were released across Scotland at 09:30 yesterday, UCAS has confirmed that so far 28,700 Scottish students have had their places in higher education confirmed.

The proportion of young people entering higher education has increased to 21.7% - the highest level recorded in recent years, and a 1% increase from last year despite a fall in the population of Scottish 18-year-olds.

Commenting on the results, Clare Marchant, Chief Executive of UCAS, said:

“Well done to all those students who have worked so hard to get their results and secure their place at university or college.

“If you have not done as well as you had hoped, try not to worry. Take some time to think about what you want to do next, and seek advice from those who know you best – parents, teachers, and friends. You have plenty of options.”

Education Secretary John Swinney congratulated pupils during a visit to Bannerman High School in Baillieston, Glasgow

He said: "The whole country should rightly be proud of the excellence and achievement in Scottish education demonstrated by these results.

"We expect to see small variations in pass rates year on year, which demonstrate the high standards, strength and integrity of our national qualifications."