HSC exams
Step 3 - HSC exams
The exams are what you study and work towards throughout your HSC year. Your exam results contribute the other 50 percent of your final HSC mark.
You're not alone! Everyone in the state who has been studying your course will be sitting the written exam at the same time as you.
Depending on your courses, you may also dance, act, play an instrument or speak in another language for parts of your exams. Other practical courses may require you to submit a major work. These parts of the exams take place in August or September.
Sitting your HSC exam
All HSC exam papers have straightforward instructions, show you how many marks can be earned for each question, and give a guide to how much time to spend on each section. Read more about sitting the exam and what to expect in the exam paper in the tips and materials section.
Exam supervisors will manage the room to give you your best chance at concentrating and showing us what you have learned. They will make sure you understand and follow the rules and other instructions, and will keep the official exam time.
At the end of the exam, your answers will be collected, packed securely, and delivered to marking centres around the state where several thousand experienced teachers mark the exams. Read more about marking or the exam process and who is involved in this task.
What am I allowed to take in to the exam with me? What happens if I'm sick during an exam or have an accident on the way there? Check out the answers and a range of other Frequently Asked Questions.