National Review of Awarding Arrangements

The Scottish Funding Council (SFC) has published the scope of a review [PDF] which will consider the arrangements for the awarding of qualifications across Scottish universities.

This review follows on from publication of the QAA Targeted Peer Review of the University of Glasgow. It will be carried out by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) with a view to providing assurance to SFC, beyond that provided by existing quality assurance mechanisms, that arrangements for the awarding of qualifications are being applied consistently, effectively and transparently; and that academic standards are being maintained.

We have prepared a comprehensive set of Frequently Asked Questions to support a clear understanding of the background to the review, how it will be carried out and what will happen once the review has been completed.

To allow a comprehensive and robust process to take place, it is envisaged that the review will take place over a number of months and it is anticipated to conclude by the end of 2026.

Having completed a desk-based review of existing evidence regarding awarding arrangements across universities in Scotland, the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) has published a guide for institutions that provides details of the methodology that will be used for the deep-dive reviews and to determine the shortlist of institutions that will be included. This forms the next phase of the Review process. Institutions are also being given the opportunity to volunteer to be included within the sample.

Inclusion in the sample does not suggest that there is a concern about the awarding arrangements at an institution. Institutions that are selected to undergo deep-dive reviews will have met several criteria within the sampling methodology.

SFC is committed to an open and transparent process.
If you have any questions about the review, please contact quality@sfc.ac.uk