Understanding HSC practical exams

Practical exams are performances, projects or submitted works that are marked by NESA appointed Higher School Certificate (HSC) markers.

A student performing on stage at the NESA Encore Showcase in 2026.

Practical exam rules

The practical components of the HSC exam are developed over time, under the supervision of the teacher and certified by the principal as the student’s own work. 

Students, teachers and principals must understand the community standards and safety legislation that govern HSC practical and performance exams and showcases.

Learn about the rules that apply to practical exams by visiting practical exam rules and referring to the ACE rules.

Student art project for NESA'S ARTEXPRESS Showcase 2026.

Key dates

Understand the different types of HSC practical exam dates, including project hand‑in, completion and marking periods.
A student performing on stage with lights in the background at the NESA ENCORE showcase in 2026.

Marking the exams

Each year, about 5,000 markers assess HSC exams, including written papers, practical work and language oral exams.
Student art project for NESA'S ARTEXPRESS Showcase 2026.

Assessment and reporting

Practical exam assessment and reporting requirements for HSC courses, with links to syllabus‑specific information for students and teachers.
Students performing on stage at the NESA OnStage Showcase in 2026.

Options

What schools need to provide and maintain when submitting HSC practical exam options in Schools Online.
Students on stage at a NESA Callback showcase.

Life skills

Requirements for Life Skills students in relation to HSC practical exams, including performances, projects and submitted works.
Student project for NESA'S SHAPE Showcase 2026.

Illness and misadventure

Information on illness and misadventure for HSC practical exams, including what to do if students cannot perform or submitted work is damaged.
Students performing on stage at the NESA OnStage Showcase in 2026.

Scheduling requests

Guidelines for scheduling requests, including when they are considered, what criteria apply, and how schools should submit requests.
Student performing on stage at the NESA Encore Showcase in 2026.

Public display of HSC works

Students can publicly display HSC works, but schools and students must check risks, keep work unchanged, and consider marking and copyright rules.

Related links

Type: Guide
Author: NSW Education Standards Authority
Publication Date: 16 April 2026

Tagged in

Education and trainingHSCStudent resourcesTeaching resourcesExam resourcesHSC practical exams
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