Student Information Management Systems and Associated Services
Framework Description
Student Information Management Systems and Associated Services is an APUC framework for universities and colleges buying the core systems that hold student records, together with software support, training and consultancy. It has two lots: Student Management Systems for higher education and for further education colleges. Applications for this framework are closed (it is not a DPS), and it ends on 15 January 2027 with no extension option, so a replacement is due soon. This framework is used by APUC and SUPC.
Context & Use Case
Registry, admissions and IT teams use it when replacing the student record system that underpins enrolment, attendance, assessment and administration. Separate HE and FE lots let universities and colleges each buy from suppliers assessed for their part of the sector. Changing a student system is a long, high-risk project, so buyers value a route where suppliers have already been assessed.
Scope of Services
Student Management Systems (Higher Education) Student Management Systems (FE Colleges) Associated services
Lots
Student Management Systems (Higher Education); Student Management Systems (FE Colleges)
Who Can Apply
No new suppliers can join before the framework ends on 15 January 2027. Student record system vendors and implementation partners should look for APUC's replacement procurement, and decide whether to target the HE lot, the FE lot or both.
Buyer Benefits
Universities and colleges need systems that meet sector data returns and connect with finance, timetabling and learning platforms. A sector framework gives them suppliers already assessed against those needs, and saves each institution a full open tender for a system it replaces only rarely.
Next Steps
With the end date of 15 January 2027 approaching, check Public Contracts Scotland (current notice AUG486244) and APUC's site for the successor. Prepare HE or FE implementation case studies, data migration methods and integration evidence now. Incumbents should complete call-offs before the end date and capture references from those projects.
How Athena Can Help
Student record systems are bought rarely, so the replacement framework will shape this market for years. Athena's framework entry support can confirm APUC's timetable and prepare the selection answers, and our guidance on public bids helps you choose between the HE and FE lots.
For the tender itself, we run bid planning and writing, including competitor analysis, a pricing model and a Bid Health Check on the draft. Case studies from HE or FE implementations sit at the centre of that work.
