Documents and notices
Selection questionnaire(SQ)
Definition
A standardised pre-qualification document used in restricted procedures to assess whether suppliers meet the minimum requirements to be invited to tender, covering financial standing, technical capability, and relevant experience.
The selection questionnaire (SQ) replaced the pre-qualification questionnaire (PQQ) in 2015 as part of efforts to standardise and simplify the process. The SQ follows a standard format set by the Cabinet Office, with mandatory and optional sections that buyers can tailor to their specific requirements.
The SQ typically covers: company information, grounds for mandatory exclusion (criminal convictions, fraud, tax evasion), grounds for discretionary exclusion (bankruptcy, professional misconduct), economic and financial standing (turnover, insurance, credit rating), technical and professional ability (relevant experience, qualifications, capacity), and additional questions specific to the contract.
For SMEs, the SQ can feel like a barrier. Turnover requirements, insurance levels, and the demand for three similar-scale references can disadvantage smaller suppliers. However, proportionality rules mean buyers should not set requirements higher than necessary for the contract — and SMEs can challenge disproportionate SQ criteria.
Why it matters for bidders
The SQ is a gate, not a formality. A weak SQ means you never reach the tender stage, regardless of how good your solution is. Conversely, a strong SQ — with compelling case studies and clear evidence of capability — positions you favourably before the main competition even begins.
How Skim helps
Skim analyses SQ requirements against your company profile and past submissions, identifying where your responses are strong and where you need to strengthen your evidence before the deadline.
Related terms
Restricted procedure
A two-stage procurement process where suppliers first complete a selection questionnaire to be shortlisted, and only shortlisted candidates are invited to submit a full tender.
Pre-qualification questionnaire(PQQ)
The predecessor to the selection questionnaire, used before 2015 to pre-qualify suppliers in restricted procurements. The term is still widely used colloquially to refer to any pre-qualification stage.
Invitation to tender(ITT)
A formal document issued by a buyer inviting suppliers to submit a tender for a specific contract, containing the specification, evaluation criteria, terms and conditions, and submission requirements.