Online HSC exams
To prepare for online HSC exams, watch our videos on the features and tools available in the online exam platform.
Features of online HSC exams
These videos show the interface and features of online HSC exams. Features include accessibility functions such as enlarging text and changing background colours.
Equipment needed for online HSC exams
Students must have the following:
- a desktop or laptop computer with the NESA lockdown browser installed
- full battery life to last the entire exam (for laptops)
- wired headphones (no Bluetooth allowed) to listen to audio stimulus for questions
- a wired or wireless physical keyboard
- a mouse
- a NESA approved calculator (if applicable).
The latest version of the NESA lockdown browser is available from Schools Online. This is different to the NAPLAN lockdown browser.
A flat laptop battery will not be considered grounds for illness/misadventure.
Students must also follow the HSC rules on what can and cannot be taken into the exam room. Students will be provided with a blank writing booklet for planning or working out during the exam. This will not be marked.
Sample online exams
View sample online exams for English Extension 1 and 2.
Schools can enrol students in sample exams for other courses through Schools Online. These sample exams can help students become familiar with the layout and features of an online exam. Once enrolled, teachers will provide students with a PIN letter downloaded from Schools Online. The PIN letter includes a link to the exam site and PIN to access the sample exam.
Disability provisions
Disability provisions are available for the HSC online exams. Some provisions such as the ability to enlarge text and diagrams, and change background and font colour are available to all students within the exam window. For other provisions, schools must apply to NESA.
Subject-specific tools for online HSC exams
Tools are available for the online HSC exams to cater for specific exams. Watch our videos on how to use these tools for:
- Loading
- Loading .