Higher School Certificate (HSC)

Why Study the Higher School Cerificate (HSC) in Singapore?

The Higher School Certificate (HSC) is offered at the Australian International School in Singapore as one of the pathways for Secondary students in years 11 and 12 other than the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). It is a valuable qualification recognised globally, given to students upon the successful completion of their final two years of high school.

The Higher School Certificate (HSC) Programme

What is the High School Certificate (HSC)?

The HSC curriculum offers students the opportunity to pursue a broad range of subjects or specialise in specific areas of interest. It aims to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills while providing a well-rounded education.

Recognition and International Acceptance of Higher School Certificate (HSC)

The Higher School Certificate is recognised internationally as a high school graduation credential. HSC results are used to calculate an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR), which plays a crucial role in determining entry to Australian and Overseas universities. The HSC’s international acceptance emphasises its value and relevance in an increasingly globalised world.

Year 11 (Preliminary HSC)

To progress to Year 12 and successfully complete the HSC, students at the Australian International School in Singapore must fulfil specific requirements. This includes satisfactorily completing at least 12 units, including mandatory units in English.

What is Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR)?

The ATAR is an important factor for HSC students who aspire to pursue higher education. To be eligible for an ATAR, students must complete at least 10 units of Board Developed curriculum, with only 2 units of a Vocational Course being allowed.

Vocational Education & Training at AIS (VET)

The Australian International School in Singapore offers Vocational Education and Training (VET) subjects that play a vital role in preparing students for further education, training, employment, and lifelong learning. These subjects contribute towards the ATAR and provide students with industry-recognized skills and competencies.

Benefits of Studying VET Subjects

Studying VET subjects at the Australian International School in Singapore offers several advantages, including exposure to real-world workplaces, insights into employer expectations, and opportunities for career planning. These subjects develop industry-specific skills, and employability skills, and provide recognition from both industry and NESA.

Higher School Certificate (HSC) Marking Process

The HSC marking process involves a programme of assessment tasks set and marked by schools. NESA moderates the assessment marks to ensure fairness and consistency across different schools. The final HSC mark is determined by the moderated school assessment mark, and the examination result.

Australian International School Singapore (AIS) HSC Results Exam Scores

HSC Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Higher School Certificate (HSC)?

The Higher School Certificate (HSC) is Australia’s senior secondary qualification for New South Wales students. You complete the Australian HSC in your final two years of high school (Years 11 and 12). Your HSC results determine your ATAR score for university entry.

Why study the Australian HSC in Singapore?

The Australian HSC gives you specialist subject pathways matched to your university goals. You choose Higher School Certificate subjects that align with your career interests. The HSC prepares you for tertiary study and employment worldwide.

How is the Australian HSC curriculum developed?

The New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA) develops the Higher School Certificate curriculum. NESA aligns the Australian HSC programme with national educational standards. The HSC curriculum prepares you for university and workforce entry.

What is ATAR in the Australian HSC?

The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) ranks your Higher School Certificate performance against all NSW students. Universities use your HSC results to determine course entry. You apply to Australian and overseas universities with your Australian HSC ATAR.

Can I complete the Higher School Certificate without an ATAR?

Yes. You can complete the Australian HSC without an ATAR pathway. Non-ATAR HSC options include VET courses and foundation studies. Australian International School Singapore provides guidance for both Higher School Certificate pathways.

Is the Australian HSC recognised internationally?

The Higher School Certificate is recognised by universities in 50+ countries. The Australian HSC holds strong recognition in the UK, USA, Canada, and Asia-Pacific. Universities accept HSC results alongside IB and A-Levels.

What Australian HSC support does AIS Singapore provide?

AIS Singapore offers specialist teachers for every Higher School Certificate subject. You receive personalised counselling for HSC subject selection and university applications. Australian International School Singapore provides exam preparation workshops, past papers, and one-on-one support throughout your Australian HSC programme.

What qualifications do HSC teachers at AIS Singapore have?

Higher School Certificate teachers at Australian International School Singapore hold bachelor’s or master’s degrees in their specialist subjects. All Australian HSC teachers possess teaching certifications and proven expertise in the HSC curriculum.