Definition
Selection Questionnaire(SQ)
The pre-qualification stage assessing supplier suitability before tendering.
The Selection Questionnaire (SQ) is the standard document UK public buyers use to assess a supplier's suitability before inviting them to tender. It replaced the old Pre-Qualification Questionnaire format and covers financial standing, technical capability, insurance and exclusion grounds using a consistent government template.
What the SQ actually assesses
The SQ is split broadly into mandatory and discretionary exclusion grounds, and selection questions on economic and financial standing plus technical and professional ability. Buyers use it to filter out suppliers who cannot deliver or who fail legal exclusion tests before spending time on full ITT evaluation.
Because the SQ format is standardised across much of the public sector, suppliers who keep a maintained master version with company details, financial figures and standard declarations ready can turn responses around far faster.
Where the SQ sits in the process
For above-threshold procurements, the SQ commonly comes before or alongside the ITT, particularly in restricted or competitive procedure with negotiation procedures where only shortlisted suppliers are invited to submit a full tender. Under the Procurement Act 2023, buyers have more flexibility over when and how selection is assessed, but the underlying SQ questions remain broadly familiar.
- Mandatory exclusion grounds (e.g. certain convictions)
- Discretionary exclusion grounds (e.g. poor past performance)
- Economic and financial standing, often via turnover or accounts
- Technical and professional ability, including relevant experience
- Insurance levels and, where relevant, modern slavery statements
Getting SQ answers right
Self-certification is standard at SQ stage, meaning suppliers confirm they meet requirements without submitting full evidence upfront, but buyers can request supporting documents from a shortlist before award. Inconsistent or exaggerated answers discovered later can lead to disqualification, so accuracy matters even at this earlier, lighter-touch stage.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the SQ the same as the PQQ?
- The SQ replaced the PQQ as the standard pre-tender assessment document for UK public procurement, using a more consistent question set across buyers. Some smaller or legacy procurements still refer to a PQQ, but the underlying purpose is the same.
- What happens if I fail the SQ stage?
- If a supplier fails mandatory exclusion checks or does not meet minimum financial or technical thresholds, they will not be invited to submit a full tender for that procurement. Buyers should give feedback on request, which is useful for improving future SQ responses.
- Do I need to provide evidence with my SQ answers?
- Usually not at first; most SQ answers are self-certified. Buyers typically only ask the successful or shortlisted bidder to provide supporting evidence such as accounts or insurance certificates before contract award.
Go deeper