Leaving school

Two young female school students walking down a path

Record of School Achievement (RoSA)

Students who do not complete their HSC may receive a RoSA. Learn about eligibility, and the requirements and rules for documents issued to school leavers by NESA.

A teacher and two students sitting at a desk with laptops in a library

Create an online portfolio

Students wanting to showcase more than just grades can make an online portfolio to highlight their extracurricular activities and achievements.

Your qualifications

Record your literacy and numeracy skills

Students can apply to sit the HSC minimum standard tests after leaving school if they have met all other requirements for the HSC. Learn more about sitting the tests and how to apply.

VET qualification documentation

There is documentation that recognises your VET qualification to show potential employers. Learn more about the qualifications.

RoSA certificates

View sample documents issued to school leavers.

Did you know: School leaving age

After Year 10 and until the age of 17, students must be:

in school, or registered for home schooling OR
in approved education or training OR
in full-time, paid employment (average 25 hours/week) OR
in a combination of these 3.

Find out more about the school leaving age

A group of students sitting around a table talking to a teacher

Options for further study

School-based apprenticeships and traineeships

While still at school, students can do School-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SBAT), starting in Year 10 or 11. Find out more.

Vocational Education and Training course

You can take a TAFE-delivered Vocational Education and Training (TVET) course while you're still at school that will count toward your school outcome.

Explore NSW Fee Free courses by industry

Skills NSW offers subsidised training to help you learn new skills in some of Australia's fastest-growing industries. Explore hundreds of qualifications.