HSC facts and figures

The HSC is a world-class credential that helps young adults on the path to work, training and further education. Learn about the most recent HSC cohort, or view historical data from previous years.

A group of school students chatting and laughing in the park on a sunny day
Data

Download the 2025 facts and figures data, and view data from previous years on this page.

The glossary explains key terms used across the participation and performance data for the Higher School Certificate (HSC).

Participation and performance

HSC awarded

View data on students who were awarded the Higher School Certificate in 2025.

ATAR eligibility

View data on students who were eligible for an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank in 2025.

Performance bands

View data on performance band distributions for students who completed HSC courses in 2025.

Minimum standard

View data on the number of students who met or did not meet the minimum standard in 2025.

Disability provisions

View data on the use of provisions which give practical assistance to students sitting HSC exams in 2025.

VET

View data on the number of Vocational Education and Training qualifications achieved by students in 2025.

Showcases and events

Discover how many students had their projects or performances nominated and selected for a showcase in 2025.

Course completions

There are many options available for students in terms of the types of HSC courses they can study. This data shows the number of students who completed different types of courses in 2025.

A group of high school students walking together outside in uniform and talking.

HSC Merit lists

View data on the gender, location and socio-economic status of students who received an HSC Merit List award in 2025.

A student standing outside and smiling, pointing to a FIC25 sign which stands for First in Course 2025.

Fairness and integrity

The NSW HSC is highly regarded both within Australia and internationally. This reflects the quality of our syllabuses, teaching, and the fairness and integrity of the exams and school assessments.

Illness and misadventure

View data on the illness and misadventure process which supports students who are unwell, have an accident, or another misadventure during HSC exams in 2025.

Malpractice

View data on the breaches and offences that were committed for HSC assessments in 2025.

Understanding the HSC

A group of three high school students leaving school and chatting with each other.

Historical facts and figures

Learn about cohorts from previous years, including HSC students' enrolments, participation, provisions and malpractice data.

Teenage girls talking in a school class room.

Enrolment data

There were 83,893 students studying one or more HSC courses in 2025. Learn about the key data for HSC students. Enrolment data for the 2026 HSC cohort will be released in September 2026.

Student in a classroom speaking with another student while holding a pen and open book.

About the HSC

The HSC is a major milestone for students in NSW. Discover the numbers and history behind the HSC.

Information and resources

Results and certificates

Find out how to access results services, replace lost certificates or apply for a statement of equivalence.

HSC resources

Explore HSC resources for students and teachers.

HSC key dates

Find key information for the HSC, including exam dates and Schools Online submission deadlines.

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

Stay connected

Keep in touch by following NESA on social media.

For more information on how to contact a specific team or make a complaint, visit NESA's contact us page.

Top of page