Pupils across Scotland received their much-anticipated exam results on Tuesday (August 5) - with Advanced Higher passes up from 76.7 per cent to 77.6 per cent.
It saw a clean sweep of improvement, with pass rates also up in Highers and National 5s.
It was good news for Education Secretary Màiri McAllan, who only took on the role earlier this year, who said: “This is testament to the breadth and strength of Scotland’s education system, the professionalism of our teachers and school staff and the hard work of our young people.”
However, the percentage of pupils passing their Advanced Highers varies considerably between council areas, with East Renfrewshire having the highest pass rate of 81.2 per cent and West Lothian having the lowest at 66.8 per cent - a difference of 14.4 per cent.
Here are the 10 best performing council areas for Advanced Higher pass rates.
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5. Na h-Eileanan Siar
Na h-Eileanan Siar, also known as the Outer Hebrides, includes the town of Stornoway, and saw pupils pass 79.3 per cent of their Advanced Highers. | Lena - stock.adobe.com
6. Falkirk
Falkirk schools have an Advanced Higher exam pass rate of 79.2 per cent. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Clackmannanshire
In Clackmannanshire, including the town of Alloa, 78.9 per cent of Advanced Highers taken result in grades of A-C being awarded. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Perth and Kinross
Schools in the Perth and Kinross Council area saw an Advanced Higher pass rate of 78 per cent in 2026. | Canva/Getty Images