Markers ensure the consistent application of national standards, marking candidates’ work in line with detailed marking instructions. This is done under the direction of the Principal Assessor or one of their senior team, and staff from our Qualifications Development and Operations directorates as appropriate.

Outline of duties

• Attend standardisation meeting(s)
• Mark to national standards
• Complete marking duties to specified timescales
• Submit a marker report in accordance with specified procedures

Further information can be found by visiting our marking course on SQA Academy.

Ideally markers should be delivering the qualification at the level they wish to mark and have at least one additional year of delivery experience (probation year can be included if the whole course has been delivered).* The two years don’t have to be consecutive.

If you’re not currently delivering the qualification, you must be able to demonstrate that you have in the previous two years.

*Please note: if you’re delivering on a part-time basis, you must have delivered the full course.

Can I mark more than one subject/level?

Yes, you can mark more than one component.

If I am on the reserve list, will I get to mark?

This varies from component to component as we often have more reserves for some subjects/levels than others. We would encourage applicants to apply for as many subjects/levels as they can for a better chance of being contacted.

Do I have to re-apply every year?

No, you don’t need to re-apply. Additional marking applications are only required for subjects/levels you’ve not previously applied for.

I can’t see an application form for the subject/level/component I want to mark.

There is only one application form. You can select the subject when completing the application. We don’t accept applications for specific components.

What training and support is there?

Training normally takes place at a marker’s meeting. Centralised markers work collaboratively with other markers/senior markers. Electronic markers are assigned a Team Leader for additional support.

What happens if I accept then withdraw?

You’ll be placed on the reserve list for the following year.

On completion of duties, markers are measured against the following Key Performance Measures (KPMs).

• Mark the agreed allocation in line with detailed marking instructions.
• Submit marks, returning marked materials where appropriate, and complete administrative tasks by specified dates and in accordance with Qualifications Scotlands policy and instructions.
• Submit a detailed marker report on completion of marking allocation, providing feedback on examination performance.
• Demonstrate behaviours outlined in the Terms and Conditions of Appointment which support Qualifications Scotlands values.