Stages and ages
| Stage | Years | Rough age | Rough US equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursery (early learning and childcare) | — | 3–5 | Preschool |
| Primary | P1–P7 | 4½–12 | Kindergarten to 6th grade |
| Secondary | S1–S6 | 11–18 | 6th/7th to 12th grade |
The school year starts in mid-August. Children usually start P1 in the August when they’re between about 4½ and 5½. Children born in the autumn and winter months can usually defer starting for a year, with a funded nursery place.
Exams
- National 4 and 5, usually in S4 (age 15–16)
- Highers, usually in S5, typically four or five subjects. They’re the main qualification for Scottish universities.
- Advanced Highers, in S6, for some subjects
Students can leave school at 16, but most going to university stay to S5 or S6.
Getting a place
- State schools are free and run by local councils.
- Each address has a catchment primary and secondary school. Living in the catchment usually guarantees a place.
- You can make a placing request for a school outside your catchment, but it isn’t guaranteed.
- If schools matter to you, check the catchment before you rent or buy. Councils publish catchment maps.
Other options
- Independent schools charge fees, now including VAT.
- Gaelic-medium education is available in some areas.
- Some schools offer the International Baccalaureate.
University in Scotland
Most undergraduate degrees take four years, similar to the US. Students with Scottish “home” fee status don’t pay tuition fees, but eligibility depends on residence and immigration status, so check before applying.
What to do next
See the full guide to UK schools, or build your move plan with Scotland and “A family with children”.
Free · about 2 minutesSee every step for your moveBuild your move planRelated guideHow does buying a home in Scotland work?Related guideHow does Scottish income tax work?
General information, not personal advice. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.