Last updated: 20.12.24

Online Tests

To receive an HSC, students must sit the HSC minimum standards online tests in reading, writing and numeracy. Each of the three tests are 45 minutes in duration. Students must achieve a Level 3 in each test in order to meet the HSC minimum standard. This aligns with Level 3 of the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF) which is considered the level required to function in everyday life, for work and further study beyond school. More information on these standards is located here.

Once the HSC minimum standard is achieved in all three areas, a student is eligible to receive their HSC.

Students can sit the online tests different amounts of times until they meet the minimum standard: 

• In Years 10 and 11, students get up to 4 attempts per year for each test.

• In Year 12, students get up to 6 attempts per year for each test. 

• For students in Years 10 - 12, at least 30 calendar days are required before re-attempting a test in the same domain. 

Schools will help students decide when they are ready to take each test.

Students planning to leave school before completing their HSC may choose to take these tests to show their level of literacy and numeracy skills. 

Students will receive their test results via their individual account in Students Online.

Support for students with additional needs

Provisions for the minimum standard tests are available for some students with disability.

Some students with a disability studying Life Skills courses may be exempt from meeting the minimum standard to receive their HSC credential.

The Head Teacher Secondary Studies and Learning Support team will liaise with the student about extra provisions for the HSC minimum standard tests.