The results embargo

What is the results embargo? 

The results embargo periods cover a defined period when you are given privileged, early access to embargoed examination results for SQA, JCQ, Welsh Baccalaureate, Cambridge International and Pearson BTEC via our Awarding Body Linkage (ABL).  

Awarding bodies set strict terms and conditions when giving you early access to results. When you sign and return your results embargo agreement, you’re promising to adhere to these conditions. 

Any breach of the results embargo jeopardises the willingness of awarding bodies and regulatory government bodies to release results early to UCAS. We recommend that provisions for embargoed results are taken into consideration when planning any technical developments or communication strategies. 

Schools and colleges also have their own results embargoes with the individual awarding organisations. 

What is a results embargo breach?

A breach to the results embargo happens when results information is released during the embargo period, or implied by a change in status, such as moving from conditional to unconditional, or conditional to unsuccessful. 

Even if results are not disclosed, this still constitutes a results embargo breach. This includes automated email campaigns and mailings sent to applicants during the results embargo period – for example, campaigns confirming accommodation or enrolment. In most cases, a breach occurs from a simple conversation or email exchange. 

When are the results embargo periods?

For 2024 there will be two separate embargo periods, one for SQA and one for JCQ results. Dates and times will be confirmed early in 2024. 

Who is responsible for the embargo?

The Primary Correspondent is responsible for the ownership of the embargo at each provider. However, all members of staff should be aware of the key dates and their responsibilities for upholding the results embargo.

If you need further support. please contact embargobreach@ucas.ac.uk.