THE HIGHER SCHOOL CERTIFICATE FAQ

How many units do I have to study?

All students must study at least 12 units of courses in the Preliminary year (Year 11) and at least 10 units of Higher School Certificate courses (Year 12).

What do I have to study to get an HSC?

Both the course pattern and the HSC course pattern MUST include:

at least 2 units of English
at least 6 units of Board Developed Courses
at least 3 x 2 unit courses
at least 4 subjects
no more than 6 units of Science in Year 11 and 7 units in Year 12 to allow for the study of Science Extension

What do I have to study to get an HSC?

Both the Course pattern and the HSC course pattern MUST include:

at least 2 units of English
at least 6 units of Board Developed Courses
at least 3 x 2 unit courses
at least 4 subjects
no more than 6 units of Science in Year 11 and 7 units in Year 12 to allow for the study of Science Extension

Can I do the HSC part-time?

You have five years dating from your first attempt at a HSC exam to complete all HSC requirements. Now the HSC is flexible and enables you to follow a number of pathways to gain the HSC.

Students accumulating the HSC must be aware that during the period of accumulation, some courses may be discontinued and some may not run in a particular year due to lack of numbers

What does satisfactorily completed mean?

Satisfactory completion of a course involves students apply themselves with diligence and sustained effort to all set tasks and experiences provided by the school. This includes both assessment tasks and course work.

Students must also genuinely attempt assessment tasks which contribute to more than 50% of available school assessment tasks (i.e. a student cannot receive estimates for greater than 50% of tasks)

What happens if I don't satisfactorily complete a course?

If the Principal considers that you have not satisfactorily studied and completed a course, you will not be granted entry into the HSC course.

If you do not satisfactorily complete a HSC course, you will not be awarded a school assessment mark. This means that even if you do sit for the HSC exam in that course, you will not receive a HSC exam mark.

What is a satisfactory record of attendance?

You must attend school and lessons in each subject regularly - enough to achieve the outcomes determined for the course you are studying. As a guide you need to attend lessons for at least 90% of the available school time.

Do I need an ATAR?

You will need an ATAR if you intend applying for university entrance. You need to ensure that your overall pattern of study qualifies you for an ATAR.

Do I need an ATAR to gain entry to a TAFE course?

TAFE courses and courses at many private colleges do not require an ATAR. However, there may be additional requirements such as a portfolio or entry interview for some courses.

How do I qualify for an ATAR?

You must study at least 10 units of Board Developed courses including:

at least two units of English

(English Studies students must sit the HSC exam)

no more than 2 units of Category B courses can contribute towards the ATAR (students must sit the optional HSC exam)

What are VET courses?

VET courses are Vocational Education & Training courses that are offered at both school and via external training organisations such as TAFE.

They contribute to the HSC and also allow students to gain a nationally recognised qualification.

VET courses delivered at school include:

Business Services, Construction, Entertainment and Hospitality.

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