Higher School Certificate (HSC)

Years 11 and 12 students in NSW work towards receiving the HSC. Find out about HSC minimum standard, courses, exams, assessments and results.

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Setting students up for success

Choosing subjects

Students doing the HSC should choose courses that match their abilities, passions and goals. Learn more about HSC course types and pathways.

All My Own Work

All My Own Work (AMOW) helps students understand and apply ethical research practices during their studies.

HSC minimum standard

Students must meet a minimum literacy and numeracy standard for the HSC. Learn about required skills, testing, and available resources.

Student guide and wellbeing

Whether you're starting the HSC or about to do your exams, find resources to help you get prepared, maintain wellness, and understand what you can expect in the exams.

Disability provisions

Disability provisions in the HSC are practical arrangements that help students who couldn't otherwise make a fair attempt to show what they know in an exam room.

Key dates

Find the general key dates for the HSC, and specific dates for written, oral and practical exams.

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Exam papers

HSC exam papers, along with marking guidelines, are available by course for each year. Standards materials are also provided to help students, teachers, and markers understand the standards set for each subject.

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Exam information and support

Exams and marking

NESA regulates the development and marking of HSC exams to ensure quality and fairness. Find out about these processes and the principles they're based on.

Student exam glossary

The student exam glossary contains key words that frequently appear in HSC exam questions. Understanding these words will help students to better prepare for exams. 

Results and certificates

Get to know the HSC and other credentials that NESA issues. Find out about how to access results services, replace lost certificates or apply for a statement of equivalence.

Rules and procedures

There are rules and procedures that every student must follow when it comes to HSC exams and other assessments. Read more on these, approved exam equipment, and how to apply for illness and misadventure.

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Facts and figures

Each year, NESA takes a snapshot of HSC students' enrolments, participation, and malpractice statistics. Learn about the most recent HSC cohort, or view historical data from previous years.

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Three school students talking together in a classroom.

Merit lists

Students who achieve high marks in their HSC courses or optional exams are celebrated on the HSC merit lists. Learn about each award and where to view current and past lists.

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Three HSC drama students performing Trolley sketch

HSC Showcase Hub

Explore the HSC Showcase Hub to find information on the nomination and selection process, along with resources to learn more about each Showcase.

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Two female students are working together during their lesson in a classroom.

About the HSC

The HSC is the highest level of attainment that school students can achieve in NSW. Read more about the numbers and history behind the HSC to understand its significance.

Learn more about the HSC

Get in contact with NESA

You can contact NESA by phone or post

Call: +61 2 9367 8111

NSW Education Standards Authority
PO Box 5300
Sydney NSW 2001

Stay connected

Keep in touch by following NESA on social media.

For more information on how to contact a specific team or make a complaint, visit NESA's contact us page.

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