This website provides an introduction to the Higher School Certificate (HSC) and the many options which are available to you.
Key features of the HSC in accordance with NESA rules and regulations:
• The Higher School Certificate recognises 13 years of schooling. In the interests of greater career choices and increased opportunities at university and vocational education, it offers you a full range of study areas matching individual abilities, interests and goals.
• Courses are linked to further education and training.
• Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses will count towards the HSC and will also lead to qualifications recognised across a range of industries.
• The HSC will fairly assess each student’s knowledge and skills.
• If you meet the minimum standard expected in a course you will receive a mark of 50. If you have a higher standard of performance you will receive a higher mark.
• For each course you will receive reports which provide clearer indications of what you have demonstrated you know, understand and can do in each course, as well as areas for improvement.
Senior 2-unit courses comprise two components:
• The Preliminary Course: This course will usually terminate at the end of term three in Year 11. Satisfactory completion of it or its equivalent is a pre-requisite for entry into the HSC course. A minimum of 12 units must be completed.
• The HSC Course: This course will usually begin at the start of term four in Year 11 and continue through to the HSC examinations in October of Year 12. A minimum of 10 units must be completed.