SQA issues new guidance on AI use in assessments
The use of GenAI is also considered acceptable when course or unit specifications explicitly allow it
The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) has issued new guidance on the use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools in qualifications assessment for the 2025–26 academic year.
The guidance states that learners may use GenAI when it does not undermine their ability to demonstrate the knowledge, understanding and skills required to meet assessment standards. It follows extensive engagement with teachers, lecturers, training providers and learners across Scotland.
The use of GenAI is also considered acceptable when course or unit specifications explicitly allow it. A list of examples illustrating acceptable and unacceptable uses has been published alongside the guidance.
Examples include using GenAI to suggest source material for portfolio work in Higher English or to generate lyrics in Music assessments, where no marks are awarded for lyrics. However, learners must not submit GenAI-generated content as their own work, and any permitted use must be clearly acknowledged.
Donna Stewart, director of qualifications development at SQA and Scotland’s chief examiner, said: “We recognise that educators across Scotland are facing challenges regarding GenAI use among learners. Our guidance – developed with and for the education community – aims to help them address these challenges.
“SQA is not endorsing or mandating the use of GenAI, and it is crucial for both learners and educators to recognise that GenAI tools have limitations and may not always produce reliable outputs, however given the accessibility and speed at which the technology is developing, it is important we provide a framework and guidance.”
The updated position reflects the growing use of GenAI across the education sector and acknowledges the rapid pace of technological development. SQA said that while it cannot provide an exhaustive list of scenarios, the appropriateness of GenAI use will depend on the context of each assessment.
Theodore Pengelley, digital learning development manager and chair of SQA’s Artificial Intelligence and Emergent Technology Group, added: “We recognise that the development of AI technology is rapid, and we will closely monitor the expansion of GenAI technology on an ongoing basis.
“This updated guidance has been informed by engagement and consultation with teachers, lecturers and practitioners, and we will continue to gather feedback from them.”
The new guidance will remain in place for at least the 2025–26 academic year and will be subject to regular review. Online Q&A sessions will be held in the new term to give educators an opportunity to ask questions and share feedback.