Get Pro
Menu

National 5

A Scottish national qualification at SCQF level 5, usually taken in S4, graded A to D with No Award; broadly comparable in level to a GCSE at grades 9 to 4.

Also called
N5
Used in
Scotland
Topic
Qualifications

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

Classfern Pro: report writer, Ask Fern, forum and jobs – no ads. What's in Pro Join Classfern Pro

Learn how – Glossary: watch the 1-minute video · print (PDF)

Higher Scotland
A Scottish national qualification at SCQF level 6, usually taken in S5 or S6, graded A to D, and the main entry qualification for Scottish universities.
SQA (Scottish Qualifications Authority) Scotland
The national body that develops, assesses and certificates most school and college qualifications in Scotland, such as National 5s and Highers. Being replaced by Qualifications Scotland.
SCQF (Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework) Scotland
Scotland's framework of 12 levels describing all qualifications and learning from Access 1 to doctorates, with SCQF credit points (one point = 10 notional learning hours).

More terms: Qualifications

National 2 · National 3 · National 4 · National Progression Award · Scottish Baccalaureate · SVQ

More terms starting with N · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.