Exam development and marking

NESA carefully regulates the development and marking of HSC exams in NSW to ensure quality and fairness. Find out about these processes and the principles they are based on.

Students sitting an HSC exam

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Processes and principles

How exams are developed

HSC exam papers go through a rigorous drafting and review process before they are approved. See the steps involved in exam development.

Exam setting principles

Read the principles that ensure all HSC exams allow students to demonstrate what they know, understand and are able to do.

Exam marking process

Find out how the HSC is marked each year, and how NESA ensures quality and consistency across all exams.

Marking guidelines principles

Read the principles that govern how HSC marking guidelines are developed. These principles ensure that marking guidelines for HSC exams are fair and consistent.

Understanding your HSC results

Understand the different components of your HSC results and how to interpret your marks. View sample HSC and Life Skill certificates.
 

Learn more
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HSC marks and results

Assessment moderation

The moderation process adjusts school assessment marks so that they can be compared across schools. Find about how moderation works.

Determining HSC results

Understand how HSC results, performance bands and cut-off marks are determined, and how exam marks are aligned to achievement standards.

Marking the HSC

Every year, around 5,000 markers mark HSC exams. Learn what's involved in marking, what the criteria are and how to apply.

Get involved in developing the HSC exams

Find out how experienced teachers and academics can get involved. See what roles are available, the selection criteria and how to apply.

Learn about exam development

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Learn more about the HSC

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Get in contact with NESA

You can contact NESA by phone or post. 

Call: +61 2 9367 8111

NSW Education Standards Authority
PO Box 5300
Sydney NSW 2001

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