What is the difference between an SQ and an ITT?

2 min read · Prepared by TenderChecker

Short answer

A Selection Questionnaire (SQ) checks whether you are a suitable supplier, looking at things like exclusion grounds, finances, insurance and past experience. An Invitation to Tender (ITT) asks for your actual bid: how you will deliver the contract and at what price.

Key points

✓SQ = are you a suitable supplier?
✓ITT = what exactly are you offering, and at what price?
✓Some procurements combine both in one stage

When each is used

Some procurements use an SQ first to shortlist suppliers, then invite them to tender. Others combine both stages into one submission. The buyer's documents will say which applies.

How they are judged

SQ questions are often pass/fail or lightly scored. ITT quality questions are usually scored against published criteria and weightings, alongside price.

Quick self-check before you submit

☐ You know whether this is a one-stage or two-stage process
☐ Pass/fail SQ requirements are met before you write the ITT
☐ Insurance and financial thresholds are confirmed

Key terms on this page

Exclusion grounds: Reasons a buyer must or may reject a supplier, such as certain offences, insolvency or poor past performance, regardless of bid quality.
ITT (Invitation to Tender): The document pack inviting suppliers to submit a full bid. It usually includes the specification, questions, scoring method, pricing schedule and contract terms.
SQ (Selection Questionnaire): The standard questionnaire used to check supplier suitability on areas such as exclusion grounds, finances and past experience.

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