Ross County (champions) and Dundee (runners-up) were promoted from the 2011–12 First Division, replacing Dunfermline (relegated) and Rangers (entered administration and demoted).

[11] After failing to exit administration by an agreed CVA, Rangers was replaced with the term "Club 12" when the fixture list was published on 18 June 2012.

[12] Eight clubs publicly declared that they would oppose the membership transfer, which would mean that they could not play in the SPL.

[14] The vote took place on 4 July 2012, and Rangers were refused re-entry to the SPL by a 10-1 majority.

[16][17] Note: Flags indicate national team as has been defined under FIFA eligibility rules.