How to Complete an SQ: A Step-by-Step Guide for Suppliers
Knowing how to complete an SQ (Selection Questionnaire) is essential if you want to progress through the tendering process. The SQ is often the first stage of public sector procurement, used to assess whether suppliers meet minimum requirements.
For a full overview of the process, read our guide on how to write a bid.
This guide explains what an SQ is, what buyers are looking for and how to complete it accurately to maximise your chances of progressing to the next stage.
What is an SQ?
An SQ (Selection Questionnaire) is a document used by buyers to assess a supplier’s suitability before inviting them to submit a full tender. It replaced the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) in public sector procurement.
It focuses on your organisation’s financial standing, technical capability and compliance.
Why the SQ stage matters
The SQ acts as a filtering stage. If your submission does not meet the required standard, you will not progress further in the process.
This means accuracy and completeness are critical. Even small errors can result in disqualification.
What does an SQ include?
Company information
You will need to provide basic details about your organisation, including company structure, registration and contact information.
Financial standing
Buyers assess your financial stability to ensure you can deliver the contract. This may include turnover, accounts or financial ratios.
Technical and professional ability
This section focuses on your experience and capability. You may be asked to provide case studies or examples of similar work.
Compliance and policies
You will need to demonstrate compliance with regulations and provide evidence such as policies, certifications or insurance details.
Exclusion grounds
Buyers assess whether any mandatory or discretionary exclusion criteria apply, such as legal or financial issues.
How to complete an SQ effectively
1. Read the instructions carefully
Before completing the document, review all guidance and requirements. Make sure you understand what is being asked in each section.
2. Provide accurate information
Ensure all details are correct and up to date. Inconsistent or incorrect information can lead to rejection.
3. Use clear and concise answers
Where written responses are required, keep your answers direct and relevant. Avoid unnecessary detail.
4. Prepare your documents in advance
Many of them require supporting evidence. Having your documents ready will make the process faster and more accurate.
This aligns with preparing your tender documents in advance.
5. Check mandatory requirements
Some questions are pass/fail. Make sure you meet all mandatory criteria before submitting.
6. Review before submission
Always review your work for completeness, accuracy and consistency. Missing information can result in disqualification.
Using a submission checklist can help ensure nothing is missed.
Common mistakes when completing an SQ
- providing incorrect or outdated information
- missing mandatory questions
- submitting incomplete documents
- failing to meet minimum requirements
- rushing the submission
A structured bid management process helps reduce these risks.
How preparation improves your SQ success
Being prepared allows you to complete SQs quickly and accurately. When your documents and information are organised, you can respond with confidence.
Building a bid library makes it easier to manage this information.
What happens after the SQ?
If your SQ is successful, you will usually be invited to submit a full tender response (ITT stage). This is where you provide detailed answers on how you will deliver the contract.
At this stage, producing high-quality responses becomes essential.
How to decide whether to complete an SQ
Before starting, assess whether the opportunity is suitable for your business. Consider your experience, resources and ability to meet the requirements.
This supports a stronger bid/no bid decision.
FAQs
What is an SQ in tendering?
An SQ is a Selection Questionnaire used to assess whether a supplier meets the minimum requirements to progress to the next stage.
What replaced the PQQ?
The SQ replaced the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire in public sector procurement.
Is the SQ scored?
Some sections are pass/fail, while others may be scored depending on the buyer’s criteria.
What happens if you fail an SQ?
If you do not meet the requirements, you will not be invited to submit a full tender.
How can I improve my SQ responses?
Provide accurate information, prepare documents in advance and review your submission carefully.
About the Author
Written by Joshua Smith, a seasoned bid-writing expert with experience across the UK, Middle East, and US, helping organisations secure the contracts they deserve through high-quality, competitive tender responses.