What is an assessment summary and standstill period after a tender?

2 min read · Prepared by TenderChecker

Short answer

Under the Procurement Act 2023, buyers usually give each bidder an assessment summary explaining how their tender was scored, and there is normally a standstill period (generally eight working days) before the contract is signed. This gives unsuccessful bidders time to review the decision.

Key points

✓Assessment summaries explain your scores
✓Standstill gives time to raise concerns
✓Feedback is the best input for your next bid

Using your assessment summary

Compare each comment with your answer and the scoring guide. Note patterns, such as missing evidence or unanswered sub-questions, and fix them in your standard content.

If you think something went wrong

Raise it with the buyer promptly during standstill. For serious concerns, take legal advice quickly, as time limits are short.

Quick self-check before you submit

☐ Assessment summary saved
☐ Scores compared with the winning bid where shown
☐ Lessons logged before the next bid

Key terms on this page

Assessment summary: The explanation a buyer gives each bidder under the Procurement Act 2023 of how their tender was assessed, usually with scores and reasons.
Procurement Act 2023: The law that reformed public procurement in the UK (excluding Scotland), applying to procurements started from 24 February 2025.
Standstill period: A short pause after the buyer announces its award decision and before the contract is signed, giving unsuccessful bidders time to raise concerns.

In-depth guides

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