Updated 15-January-2026
Every year, thousands of students across Scotland search for one thing as exams approach — the SQA exam timetable. With exams playing a crucial role in academic progression, knowing when your exams are scheduled is just as important as knowing what to revise.
This guide explains the SQA Exam Timetable 2026 in a clear, student-friendly way. Instead of simply linking a PDF, we break down what the timetable means, which qualifications it covers, how students should prepare, and what parents need to know — all in one place.
The SQA Exam Timetable 2026 is the official schedule published by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) that lists exam dates and sessions for Scottish qualifications.
It includes written exam dates for:
National 5 (N5)
Higher
Advanced Higher
The timetable is used by all schools, colleges, and private candidates across Scotland. Every candidate sits exams according to this same national schedule.
The SQA timetable covers the full range of senior-phase Scottish qualifications.
National 5 exams are typically taken by students aged 15–16. They are a key foundation for Higher courses.
Higher exams are usually taken in S5 or S6 and are often required for university entry.
Advanced Higher exams are taken by students aiming for competitive university courses or deeper subject specialisation.
All three levels appear in the SQA Exam Timetable 2026, with exams running mainly from April to June 2026.
Based on the official timetable:
Exams begin in late April 2026
Most exams run through May
The final exams take place in early June 2026
Exams are scheduled in morning and afternoon sessions, so students may have:
One exam in a day
Two exams on the same day (in rare cases)
Understanding this early allows students to plan revision properly and avoid last-minute stress.
Many students focus only on revision content and forget how important timing is.
Knowing the timetable helps students:
Create a realistic revision plan
Avoid last-minute cramming
Prepare for closely spaced exams
Manage stress and energy levels
Balance schoolwork with exam preparation
Parents also benefit by understanding:
When pressure periods will be highest
How to support students at home
When extra tuition may be needed
Private candidates often worry whether they follow a different schedule.
They do not.
✔ Same exam dates
✔ Same papers
✔ Same marking
✔ Same certificates
The only difference is where the exam is sat — not when or how it is assessed.
Private candidates should use the timetable early to:
Register with an exam centre on time
Arrange travel and accommodation if needed
Plan revision independently
Many students download the PDF but don’t use it effectively.
Common mistakes include:
Not checking exam clashes
Ignoring exam session times
Revising subjects in the wrong order
Leaving preparation too late
Forgetting practical or coursework deadlines
The timetable is not just a list of dates — it’s a planning tool.
A smart approach looks like this:
Highlight your exam subjects
Note the first and last exam dates
Identify closely spaced exams
Prioritise subjects with earlier dates
Build revision blocks around exam order
Leave buffer time for rest and review
Students who plan around the timetable often perform better — not because they revise more, but because they revise smarter.
The full official timetable is published by the Scottish Qualifications Authority and is available as a PDF.
Students and parents can access the official document here:
👉 SQA Exam Timetable 2026 (Official PDF)
Understanding the timetable is only one part of exam success. Many students benefit from structured academic support alongside independent revision.
At Merit Tutors, we support Scottish qualification students with:
National 5 subject support
Higher exam preparation
Advanced Higher topic mastery
Exam technique and time management
Confidence building before exams
Early support makes a significant difference — especially in subjects with tightly packed exam schedules.
When do SQA exams take place in 2026?
SQA exams for 2026 are scheduled to take place during the main exam diet in April, May, and early June 2026. Exact subject dates and times are published in the official SQA Exam Timetable 2026.
Does the SQA Exam Timetable 2026 include National 5, Higher, and Advanced Higher?
Yes. The SQA Exam Timetable 2026 covers all major qualifications, including National 5 (N5), Higher, and Advanced Higher exams across all subjects.
Is the SQA exam timetable the same for private candidates?
Yes. Private candidates sit exams on the same dates and times as school candidates. There is no separate timetable for private candidates under SQA.
Can students have two SQA exams on the same day?
Yes, it is possible for students to have more than one exam on the same day. In such cases, SQA provides guidance and special arrangements where required.
Where can I download the official SQA Exam Timetable 2026 PDF?
The official SQA Exam Timetable 2026 PDF can be downloaded from the SQA website. Students should always refer to the official PDF to confirm exact exam dates and times.
The SQA Exam Timetable 2026 sets the framework for one of the most important academic periods in a student’s life. Students who understand it early, plan properly, and revise strategically place themselves in a far stronger position.
Instead of reacting to exam dates, successful students prepare around them.
Whether you are a school student, parent, or private candidate, using the timetable correctly can reduce stress, improve organisation, and ultimately lead to better results.
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