The Higher School Certificate (HSC) is the key to secondary education in NSW, determining students’ university entry rankings and future pathways. The HSC written exams will take place between October 16 and November 10, 2025, while the academic year for HSC students is scheduled from February 6 to December 20, 2025.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 HSC exam schedule.
HSC practical exams timetable release date
For subjects involving practical components such as Visual Arts, Music, and Drama, the official practical exam timetable will be published on Monday, December 2, 2024. This gives students ample time to plan their projects and performances effectively.
HSC Languages Oral Exams Timetable Release
Languages are an essential part of the HSC curriculum, and oral exams play a significant role. The schedule for HSC Language Oral exams will be released on Monday, April 28, 2025. The oral exams will take place between August 9 and September 13, 2025.
HSC written Exam Timetable Release
The official HSC written exam timetable will be published on Friday, May 2, 2025. This will provide students with exact dates and times for each subject exam, enabling them to organize their study plans with clarity and focus.
HSC Written exam period
The HSC exams start on Thursday, October 16, 2025, and finish on Monday, November 10, 2025. These four weeks will definitely be challenging, but they’re also your opportunity to prove how much effort you’ve put in. It’s okay to feel a little overwhelmed; just focus on staying organized and keeping a positive mindset.
HSC results release date
The long-awaited HSC results will be announced on Wednesday, December 18, 2025. Students can access their results via the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) portal using their student number and password.
Balancing Study and Life: Making the Most of Your HSC Year
The HSC isn’t just about studying for exams. It’s about finding a balance between school, personal life, and preparing for the future. It’s a challenging year, but with the right approach, you can make it both productive and enjoyable.
Make Use of Available Resources
Take advantage of online learning platforms, NESA past papers, school libraries, and tutoring sessions. Many universities and organizations offer free study guides, and websites like NESA and the NSW State Library have valuable materials to boost your preparation.
Study Smart, Not Just Hard
You don’t need to spend every waking hour buried in textbooks. Instead, focus on quality over quantity. Break study sessions into shorter, focused blocks, use practice questions, and teach concepts to someone else. These methods are far more effective than just reading notes over and over.
Frequently asked questions : HSC school holidays NSW
Q. How long is the autumn holiday?
The Autumn break lasts from April 14 to April 24, 2025, with ANZAC Day on April 25 being a public holiday.
Q. When are the winter holidays?
Winter holidays take place from July 7 to July 18, 2025, providing a mid-year break for students.
Q. What are the dates for the spring holidays?
Spring holidays run from September 29 to October 10, 2025, allowing students to refresh before the final term.
Final Thought :
The 2025 academic year is packed with important dates and milestones, especially for Year 12 students preparing for the HSC. By staying informed about term dates, exam schedules, and preparation strategies, students can navigate this journey with confidence.