HSC arrangements for 2021

27 August 2021

NSW and ACT universities have taken note of the announcement made today by the NSW Government regarding changes to the HSC this year, accepting that the decision has been made in the best interests of students during a time of great disruption to their education.

“Our message to year 12 students remains simple, do your best to complete your HSC appreciating that there are many pathways into university.” said Professor Barney Glover AO, Convener of the NSW Vice-Chancellors’ Committee.

“We understand how unsettling all these changes are for you, but we are strongly encouraging you to stay the course and complete your HSC.

“Don’t get distracted or disheartened, instead, take this extra time as an opportunity to devote your energy to studying. Focus on putting all your effort into meeting the challenges that are in front of you with the promise of a well-deserved break over the holiday period.”

Professor Glover also wished to convey words of support to schools, teachers and parents: “Colleagues, we are all in this together. We are grateful for your extraordinary efforts during this time of crisis, and we commend you for going above and beyond to prepare students for their HSC assessments. To the parents of these students, feel assured that the universities have programs to support year 12 students as they transition into university life.

From the university sector’s perspective, Professor Glover also said that “These changes will not unduly impact us. We will work through them and adjust our admissions processes (including those through UAC) as needed.

We wish all year 12 students every success with their HSC assessments in 2021″

Additional words of support from NSW and ACT universities:

Australian National University Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Brian Schmidt said: “To everyone finishing your HSC – we know your last two years have been challenging, but your teachers have prepared you well for what comes next in your lives. For those of you planning to come to ANU – stay the course and we look forward to welcoming you to our campus in 2022.”

Charles Sturt University Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Professor John Germov said: “In recent weeks year 12 students in regional NSW have been forced to again deal with lockdowns and changed schooling conditions. Changes to the scheduling of HSC exams will no doubt be unsettling, but I encourage students to tap into the resilience that has helped them through the last 18 months to complete their exams to the best of their abilities. That resilience is just as important as their exam results in helping to open the door to a university course. There are many pathways into University and Charles Sturt is ready to support students during this challenging time.”

University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO said: “Regional universities across New South Wales are ready to play an important role in supporting our local schools and communities through this very different HSC year. Like many regional institutions, the University of Newcastle has worked closely with school communities over the last 18 months to develop programs, resources and pathways to support HSC students. We’re proud of the students, teachers and their families in our communities for their resilience and determination over this period of disruption. There are many ways for students to get into university, and we’re glad we have been able to play a part in their preparation for HSC exams. We encourage all students to continue with their HSC and to keep going at this important time.”

University of New South Wales President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ian Jacobs said: “These pandemic years have been particularly tough on those completing their schooling, but Year 12 students in NSW have shown enormous character and perseverance. UNSW understands the hurdles you are facing, and we will work with you to help you realise your higher education ambitions. We encourage you to continue your studies confident in the knowledge that opportunities will be available at UNSW as usual. Your knowledge and skills will be greatly needed in the years to come.”

University of Sydney Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Mark Scott AO said: “Class of 2021, please keep going and trust that we all want to see you succeed. Whatever happens with case numbers, vaccination rates or the lockdown one thing is certain – there will be places at universities across the country for you next year.”

University of Technology Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Attila Brungs said: “As a parent of high school kids, I know how much the pandemic has impacted upon all of you, but also how much your teachers are doing to make sure you succeed despite those challenges. You’ll find the same supportive approach at university next year, if that’s what you choose to pursue. Good luck in your exams.”

Sample list of programs available to students transitioning into university:

Australian Catholic University