On May 15th, I, along with many other students across Scotland, sat for the QS (Qualification Scotland) Higher Applications of Maths exam. After thoroughly preparing and consistently scoring around 90% in past papers, I, like many others, found the actual exam to be unexpectedly challenging. The questions were starkly different from previous years, making it difficult to achieve the grades we need for our future academic pathways.

As a student with aspirations of entering university, obtaining a B in this subject is crucial. Unfortunately, this year's exam has put that goal in jeopardy. The discrepancy between our preparation and the actual exam content has raised concerns among my peers and me, prompting us to question the fairness of the current grade boundaries.

The impact of these unanticipated changes extends beyond immediate results. It could potentially hinder our prospects of getting into desired university programs, affecting our long-term educational and career goals. Such a significant deviation from previous exam standards is not just distressing; it undermines the confidence students have in the examination process and the QS's role in maintaining consistent and equitable education standards.

We urge the QS board to consider lowering the grade boundaries for this year's Higher Applications of Maths exam. Doing so would not only account for the unexpected difficulty but would also restore faith in the fairness and consistency of the QS examination system.

Supporting this petition means advocating for a fair and just academic environment where students are assessed in a manner that accurately reflects their preparedness and capabilities. Let your voice be heard and help ensure that the transition to university is based on a fair evaluation of our knowledge and skills.

Please sign this petition if you believe in fairness and consistency in our education system and want to see a change in this year's grading to better reflect the true potential of Scotland's students.