The NSW Government is today wishing good luck to the more than 76,000 HSC students who will be filling exam centres across NSW from today, as the formal exam period kicks off for the HSC Class of 2024.

Starting with English Paper 1 at 9.50am, 124 exams will take place over the next 19 days. At the conclusion of the exam period on 8 November, close to 400,000 unique exam sessions will have been completed.

With a record 80,166 students completing at least one HSC course in 2024, the HSC remains the most popular high school credential in the country.

The HSC exams, which contribute to 50 per cent of students’ HSC mark, are an opportunity for students to demonstrate all they have learned over their 13-year schooling career.

While today marks the start of written exams, close to 30,000 students have already completed language oral exams, performance exams, or handed in a major work in Term 3.

HSC marking will be conducted by 5500 subject matter experts – teachers from classrooms – who award marks based on how students respond to questions, in line with the syllabus and marking guidelines.

Students will receive their HSC results and ATAR on Wednesday 18 December.

Visit the NESA website to view the written exam timetable and the 2024 HSC Enrolment Snapshot.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said:

"All the best to the HSC Class of 2024 – the largest high school cohort in the country and in NSW history – as you head into written exams.

“Trust that the hard work you’ve done has prepared you well, and go into every exam room determined to do your best.

"Thank you to all of the teachers who have been part of this cohort’s 13-year education. I know every teacher and parent is looking on with pride today as these young people take this big step in their educational journey.”

NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) Chief Executive Officer Paul Martin said:

“The next 19 days are a huge logistical operation for schools, exam staff and NESA.

“Our aim is to ensure students have a safe and positive exam experience – so they can show markers all they have learnt when they are in exams.

“We know this is a big day for families too – who have been supporting their young adults through the highs and lows of school assessments, exam preparation and the idea that a new life chapter is about to begin.

“My message to students: there are many ways to reach your goals. Be passionate, be curious and feel confident in all that you have learnt over the last 13 years.”