SCQF Level 7 · Qualifications Scotland
Advanced Higher Subjects in Scotland
Advanced Highers are Scotland’s top secondary qualification at SCQF Level 7, carrying 32 credits and approximately 160 notional learning hours. Typically taken in S6, they are recognised by universities across the UK and are required entry qualifications for competitive degree programmes including Medicine, Engineering, and Law.
SCQF 7
Framework level
S6
Typical year
A = 56
UCAS tariff points
32
SCQF credits per subject
UCAS Tariff Points
Advanced Higher grades convert to UCAS points as follows: A = 56 pts, B = 48 pts, C = 40 pts, D = 32 pts. For comparison, a Higher A = 33 pts. One AH at grade A is worth more than any single Higher — but most competitive Scottish degree offers are expressed in Highers (typically AAAB or AAABB) with Advanced Highers as preferred additions rather than mandatory requirements. Always check individual university entry requirements.
Advanced Higher Mathematics
S6 (occasionally S5) · SCQF Level 7
Advanced Higher English
S6 · SCQF Level 7
Advanced Higher Biology
S6 · SCQF Level 7
Advanced Higher Chemistry
S6 · SCQF Level 7
Advanced Higher Physics
S6 · SCQF Level 7
Advanced Higher History
S6 · SCQF Level 7
Advanced Higher Geography
S6 · SCQF Level 7
Advanced Higher Modern Studies
S6 · SCQF Level 7
Advanced Higher Business Management
S6 · SCQF Level 7
Advanced Higher Computing Science
S6 · SCQF Level 7
Advanced Higher Music
S6 · SCQF Level 7
Advanced Higher Drama
S6 · SCQF Level 7
Advanced Higher French
S6 · SCQF Level 7
Advanced Higher Art and Design
S6 · SCQF Level 7
Do you actually need an Advanced Higher?
The answer depends entirely on your target degree and university. Many Scottish degree programmes — including most at Scottish universities — have entry requirements expressed entirely in Highers (e.g. AAABB). Advanced Highers are typically specified for Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, and Medicine at competitive institutions. Each individual subject page explains exactly who needs AH in that subject and who does not.