Explains the structure of the course, including its purpose and aims and information on the skills, knowledge and understanding that will be developed.

Session 2026-27 onwards

• Higher Physics course specification June 2026

Session 2025-26

• Higher Physics course specification September 2019

This section provides information on marking instructions and/or the coursework assessment task(s). It includes information that centres need to administer coursework and must be read in conjunction with the course specification.

Session 2026-27 onwards

• Higher Physics coursework assessment task June 2026

Session 2025-26

• Higher Physics coursework assessment task June 2020

• Guidance on conditions of assessment

Examples of candidate evidence with commentaries

• Examples of candidate evidence with commentaries

Audio Presentation

• Physics Units: assessment and external verification (SCQF level 3 - SCQF level 7) (56.33 MB)
• Overview of course assessment (37 minutes)
• Higher Physics - Assignment (19.33 MB)

Changes to Understanding Standards materials

• Changes to published Understanding Standards materials for all subjects

Please note: Understanding Standards materials are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain up to date.

Additional Resources session 2020-22

Further information can be found on the Understanding Standards Website.

Provides information on the performance of candidates - which is useful to teachers, lecturers and assessors in their preparation of candidates for future assessment.

Course Reports

• 2025 Higher Physics course report October 2025
• 2024 Higher Physics course report November 2024
• 2023 Higher Physics course report October 2023

• Physics: general marking principles (1.00 MB)