About PISA

What does the PISA study involve?

PISA looks at how well 15-year-olds can use the knowledge and skills they have learned in school to meet real-life challenges. The computer-based assessments and background questionnaires for schools and students are developed jointly by member countries of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

The main focus of the assessment will be science skills (this changes between subjects for each cycle). There will also be modules that assess reading and maths and a new module covering digital skills entitled "Learning in a Digital World."

In order to help us understand how different contexts may affect the results of the PISA assessment, students and headteachers are asked to complete questionnaires about themselves, their school/college and, in 2025, their experiences of science and learning in a digital world.

Timeline for the PISA 2025 Main Study in Scotland

  • January 2025: Nominate a PISA School Coordinator and a PISA IT Coordinator. Complete the online form (link in your invitation pack) to identify two school contacts we can liaise with to prepare for the assessment. Share the letters provided in your pack with your Head of Science, Head of Parent Council and other teachers to create awareness.

  • March 2025: Complete School IT Readiness Testing. Your nominated IT Coordinator will be contacted to run some specific checks to ensure your school computers, network and internet connection meet the requirements for the PISA online platform. This may require support from your IT Support service provider.

  • April 2025: Agree a date for your assessment in September or October. Your nominated School Coordinator will agree an assessment date and book IT suite capacity at your school for 40 students. They will also engage with their NFER-assigned Study Administrator, who can provide more detail on the process and respond to any queries.

  • May 2025: Provide details of S4/S5 students eligible to participate. This information will be used to draw a random sample of 40 students aged 15 or 16 (usually S4 or S5) born within the required date range.

  • June 2025: Check the data returned to you for the 40 students chosen in the sample. Your assigned Study Administrator will remain available to liaise with your School Coordinator if they have any queries.

  • August 2025: Inform students and parents and encourage participation in PISA. PISA does not require any student preparation for the assessment. Your assigned Study Administrator will re-connect with your School Coordinator after the summer break to check on final arrangements before the agreed assessment day.

  • September 2025: Support arrangements for the PISA assessment. The Study Administrator will manage the assessment process on the day. Your nominated School Coordinator and IT Coordinator will need to be available. One member of school staff will be required in each IT suite being used to support the Study Administrator. The administration will take about half a day to complete, usually taking place during the morning.

  • October 2025: Arrange any re-visits and complete a school questionnaire. If the number of students participating on the day of the assessment does not meet the required PISA threshold, a re-visit will be arranged by the Study Administrator in consultation with the School Coordinator so that those absent can also take part.