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Student Guide
Can't find what you're looking for? Search Resources
The content on this page has moved to a new location. We are migrating our website content to a new location on the NSW Government website so it's easier for you to find and read content. All HSC information is now available at nsw.gov.au/NESA. From 20 March, this page will no longer exist, and you will be automatically redirected to the NSW Government website.Why has it moved?
Study and exam resources
- Past exam papers which include marking guidelines and marker notes.
- Syllabus pages which contain:
- The course syllabus
- Course outcomes
- Assessment and reporting guidelines
- Sample exam questions for new courses.
- Glossary of key words with some of the terms commonly used in exam questions.
- HSC Study Guide produced each year in partnership with The Sydney Morning Herald.
- Multiple choice quiz helps you prepare for your HSC exams with multiple choice questions.
- NESA shop where you can buy:
- HSC exam workbooks for a range of courses
- Young Writers Showcase books featuring works by HSC English Extension 2 students
- ENCORE CDs with performances by HSC music students.
- Wellbeing resources to help you stay healthy and manage stress in the lead up to exams.
Exam checklist
Are you ready for the HSC?
Apply for a disability provision if eligible
Disability provisions are available if you have a disability that would prevent you from:
- reading exam questions or
- communicating responses.
To apply speak with your deputy or Year advisor as early as you can. Read more about whether you are eligible for provisions and how to apply.
Check assessment requirements for your course
Some courses have specific assessment requirements. For example, if you are studying English Studies, Mathematics Standard 1 or a VET Framework course and want to get an ATAR, you might need to sit an optional exam. Speak to your school for more information. Students Online also has information about the HSC requirements for English Studies and Mathematics Standard 1 under My Account > Manuals and guides.Save your dates
Your personalised HSC exam timetable is available from May. Access it by logging into your Students Online account. You can also view the following online:- Written exam timetable
- Oral language exam timetable
- Major projects advice and performance exam timetable.
Know the rules
Make sure you are familiar with the HSC rules and processes and the consequences of breaking the rules. Read the following advice:
- Exam equipment list
- Approved calculators
- Practical and performance exams guidance and certification
- Illness and misadventure.
Read our advice
Find out more about taking HSC exams.
Results
You will receive your HSC results by email and text message.
You can access your HSC credentials and VET qualification documents by logging into your Students Online account, available until the end of June the year after you leave school.
Merit lists are published on the NESA website.
The Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) releases ATARs. Contact UAC for most information about the ATAR.
Read more about:
Receiving your HSC
To be awarded the HSC you must:
- complete Years 11 and 12, and
- satisfy all HSC course requirements
- sit the required HSC
exams
- from 2020, show a minimum standard of literacy and numeracy.
You can view the relevant Stage
6 curriculum for each HSC course and complete school-based
assessments.
Learn about how HSC exams are developed.
If you are not eligible to receive the HSC you may be eligible for a Record of School Achievement.
Life after school
Careers NSW offers free, personalised career advice and resources that can help you kickstart your career. It includes a career quiz to help you understand your work style and explore careers you might enjoy. Students can also speak to a careers advisor, an industry expert or visit the self-service website to help you understand educational pathways to match you with the skills you need to find employment.
HSC Study Guide
Practical information and advice to help you achieve your best in the HSC exams.