Pathway for Local International High School Students in Australia

Overview of Australian Local Students

Chinese students studying in Australia, like local students, complete state-mandated high school programs and take the Higher School Certificate (HSC) exam in Year 12. Unlike China, where college entrance exams heavily determine university admissions, the HSC score is only part of the overall assessment. The remaining portion comes from the students’ performance in Years 11 and 12, making consistent effort throughout high school critical.

In New South Wales, Australia, high school students and their parents are undoubtedly familiar with the HSC exam. Much like the Gaokao in China, it is an extremely important exam. So, what exactly is the HSC exam? How should high school students choose their courses? And how is the scoring system structured?

What is the HSC Exam?

HSC（Higher School Certificate-New South Wales） is a high school qualification certificate for students in New South Wales (NSW). Administered by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA), the HSC is equivalent to a university entrance examination.

HSC courses are typically offered in Years 11 and 12, though some schools allow students to start as early as Year 10.

The HSC certificate plays a pivotal role in determining eligibility for university or vocational education, and it is widely recognized by higher education institutions worldwide.

How are HSC Scores Calculated?

Unlike the Chinese Gaokao, the HSC does not rely solely on a single final examination. Instead, the overall score is split equally
50% from final exams, held at the end of Year 12.
50% from school assessments during Year 12.

HSC Exam Formats

HSC assessments are highly structured, including:
Written exams: Traditional tests for most subjects.
Listening tests: For language subjects.
Oral exams and live performances: For language or arts subjects to assess practical application or creativity.
Design projects: For courses like design and engineering, where 70% of the grade comes from exams and 30% from project evaluations.
Students with special circumstances, such as illness or disabilities, can apply for accommodations, including extra points, by submitting a request two weeks before the exam.

How is the HSC Scored?

The HSC does not rely on a single final exam. Scores are split into two parts:

50% from final exams
50% from school assessments during Year 12, which include:20% from trial exams
15% from two Year 12 semester tests
15% from subject-specific assessments, such as lab work in physics or chemistry.

NESA uses a standardized grading system across schools to ensure fairness.

For example: HSC Geography, the scoring criteria are divided into four aspects:

• Basic knowledge of geography (20%)
  
  
• Application of knowledge and hypothesis formation (30%)
  
• Experimental research (40%)
  
• Field investigation (10%)
  

In addition, the HSC exam considers certain special circumstances of students when awarding marks. For students who are ill or disabled, they can apply for accommodations two weeks before the exam. Upon review and approval by the New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA), appropriate additional marks may be granted.

HSC Score Report

The HSC score report is highly detailed. Students not only receive a total score but also a breakdown of each subject, including scores for individual questions. This allows students to clearly understand their performance. If students have doubts about their scores, they can appeal through their school. The school will then submit a formal request to the Education Standards Authority for a review of the exam papers.

How Should Students Choose HSC Subjects?

Currently, the HSC offers more than 100 subjects across a wide range of disciplines to meet students’ diverse interests and needs.
After selecting the required core subjects, students can choose additional subjects based on their interests and abilities. This flexibility allows students to explore their passions and fully showcase their strengths.
Basic Rules for HSC Subject Selection (Pattern of Study)

No more than seven units of science are studies. No more than seven unites of science subjects.

At least six units of a Board Developed Courses

At least two units of a Board Developed Course in English

at least three courses of two-unit value or greater (either Board Developed or Board Endorsed Courses)，(can be Board Developed or Board Endorsed).

at least four subjects

HSC Exam to University Pathway

To help students focus on exam preparation and ease their transition to university, JCG offers professional support to manage university and visa applications seamlessly.

JCG’s HSC Hassle-Free Management Service

STEP 1. Academic Planning
With years of experience, JCG customizes personalized academic plans based on each student’s needs and capabilities, ensuring dedicated support throughout.
STEP 2. School Applications
Maximize success by submitting multiple university preferences. We also provide a backup (Plan B) strategy to guarantee results.
STEP 3. Document Collection and Management


Once exams are complete, students can confidently return home. JCG will collect and manage all results and correspondence, notifying students and parents promptly.
STEP 4. Secondary Assessment


After results are released, JCG reassesses student preferences. If necessary, we submit new applications or activate Plan B.
STEP 5. Visa Submission
Upon receiving university offers, JCG assists with visa extension documentation, medical appointments, and transitioning from high school to university visas.
STEP 6. Ongoing Support
Even after enrollment, JCG provides continuous academic and visa support to address any unexpected issues.

We also offer personalized HSC tutoring sessions to help students excel in their exams. Contact us for more information!