SQA exams get underway for pupils in Fife and across the rest of Scotland today (Monday, April 24).

Tens of thousands of young people will sit National 5, Higher and Advanced Highers over the next few weeks, with the exam period running until Thursday, June 1.

Almost 130,000 candidates will sit formal assessments, with learners undertaking question papers in subjects ranging from Chemistry and English to Art & Design and Environmental Science.

For those candidates taking subjects such as Drama, Health and Food Technology and PE, the performance and practical elements of the assessments have been taking place over the last several weeks.

Over the course of the next six weeks, more than two million question papers will be handed out in over 500 schools, colleges and training providers across the country.

SQA exams will also be held in the United States of America and a number of European countries, including Romania where the European Taekwon-do championships are taking place, as special arrangements have been put in place to accommodate candidates who are, for example, representing their country at the time of their exams.

Fiona Robertson, SQA Chief Executive, and Scotland’s Chief Examining Officer, said: “I would like to wish the thousands of young people throughout Scotland who are about to sit exams or complete their assessments the very best in the coming weeks. This is their opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned and what they can do, to progress to their next steps in education, training, or employment.

“I also express my appreciation for the dedication and professionalism of teachers and lecturers across the country, who have continued to support and guide thousands of learners, helping them reach their full potential.”

In total, more than 144,000 candidates are expected to get their results on Tuesday,  August 8. All candidates will receive their results by post, but they can also register for a MySQA account to receive results by text and/or email on Results Day. Learners should log onto www.mysqa.org.uk and register for the service with their unique Scottish Candidate Number by 5pm on Wednesday, July 19.