It was also positive for widening access with a record 6,500 SIMD 20 applicants accepted, 3 compared to 5,835 in 2023; an increase of 11.4% on 2023. • This is what gives us the confidence to say the planned removal of the 2,500 “SQA places” in 2025/26 can also be achieved without detriment to learners.