Students who took Scottish Highers exams this year have achieved a record pass rate of 74.6 per cent, up from 74.2 per cent last year.

There was a slight fall of students who passed Advanced Highers. Every year there are 5 per cent more students sitting Scottish Highers exams.

University applications for 2010 entry have risen a staggering 31 per cent adding more pressure on students to achieve the grades they need to secure their place at university.

UCAS say it is too early to say whether fewer places will be available through the Clearing system.

Over 160,000 students will receive their results today but students from the rest of the UK will have to wait until Thursday 19 August for A Level results day.

Mike Russell, Scottish education minister, said: “I'd like to convey my congratulations to students, teachers and parents for their success and high levels of attainment, which confirms the strengths of the Scottish education system.”

The pass rate for the Advanced Highers exams fell slightly from 77.8 per cent in 2009 to 77.5 per cent. Approximately a quarter of all Advanced Highers exams sat resulted in an A grade.

Passes at Standard Grade English, Maths and Science stayed roughly the same from last year, allaying fears over falling standards in the core subjects.

About 35,000 students received their results yesterday via text or email. They will receive their certificates in the post today, along with those who have opted for the traditional form of notification.