Figures from the Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA) show attainment of A to C grades was 77.1%.

It had been 79.8% in 2022, 87.3% in 2021, 89.3% in 2020 and 74.8% in 2019.

There was a similar trend at Advanced Higher level, with those attaining A to C grades at 79.8%, down from 81.3% in 2022, 90.2% in 2021 and 93.1% in 2020. The pass rate was 79.4% in 2019.

For National 5 qualifications, the pass rate was 78.8%, down from 80.8% in 2022. It was 85.8% in 2021 and 78.2% in 2019.

Around 140,000 pupils across Scotland received results on Tuesday for their Nationals, Highers, Advanced Highers and national certificates.

This year, the SQA has modified course assessments, put an exam exceptional circumstances service in place, taken a sensitive approach to grading, and implemented a direct appeals service.

Industrial action by teachers led to education disruption in the 2022/23 school year.

The SQA said the exam results were "strong".

In a statement, the organisation said a "sensitive approach" was used to ensure fairness to learners in awarding results in 2023.

The statement added: "This recognised that learning and teaching are still in the recovery phase from the pandemic, and took that into account while maintaining the credibility and high standards of Scotland's qualifications."

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SQA chief executive Fiona Robertson said: "Our warmest congratulations to the 140,000 learners receiving their certificates today. They should be proud of their achievements.

"Learners can be confident that the qualifications that they have earned - by demonstrating their knowledge and skills - provide a solid foundation for the next stage in their learning, training or employment. We wish them all continued success."

Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth also congratulated those receiving results.

She said: "There is much to celebrate in what is another strong set of results showing a clear and continuing recovery from the pandemic - with pass rates at National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher above the 2019 pre-pandemic level, a record number of passes at National 5 and the highest number of vocational and technical qualifications ever awarded."

Skills Development Scotland's helpline is available for four days on 0808 100 8000.