Pupils across Scotland received their much-anticipated exam results yesterday (Tuesday, August 5) - with a 0.8 per cent rise in Higher passes.
That meant that students achieved grades A-C in 76.7 per cent of Highers, with pass rates also up in National 5s and Advanced Highers.
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 Highers varies considerably between council areas, with East Renfrewshire having the highest pass rate of 87.1 per cent and Moray having the lowest at 69.5 per cent - a difference of 17.6 per cent.
Here are the 10 worst performing council areas for Higher pass rates.
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1. Moray
Moray, including the town of Elgin, comes bottom of the table, with a Higher pass rate of 69.5 per cent. | Canva/Getty Images
2. Dundee City
Dundee City is second bottom, with pupils achieving an A-C grade in 70.7 per cent of Higher exams. | Canva/Getty Images
3. Angus
Angus, which includes the seaside town of Arborath, achieved a 70.9 Higher exam pass rate in 2026. | Canva/Getty Images
4. Fife
Fife Council, including the university town of St Andrews, is one of two council areas where school pupils passed 71.1 per cent of their Highers. | Canva/Getty Images