Students, teachers, and families across New South Wales are celebrating as the latest Higher School Certificate (HSC) results are released today. A record-breaking 69,962 students successfully attained their HSC, along with another 9,522 completing at least one HSC course, marking this year as the largest cohort in both NSW and Australian history.
Among those statistics, 57,205 students are eligible to receive an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR), reflecting their academic achievements and future pathways. Notably, this year also saw 18,430 students, or approximately 25% of candidates, receiving recognition for completing vocational education and training (VET) courses.
The results indicate bright prospects for the Class of 2024, where 12% of all course results were rated within the top band, 42% earned scores within the top two bands, and 74% achieved scores within the top three bands. These figures highlight the hard work and dedication of the students who participated this year, especially as they navigated the rigorous assessment process.
Celebratory ceremonies began yesterday as 131 students were awarded first place across various HSC courses. An additional 19,460 students received recognition on the Merit Lists released today, showcasing excellence throughout the state. The All-round Achievers list included 1,457 students who achieved results within the top band across ten units of study, demonstrating unparalleled academic performance.
A staggering 19,591 students made it onto the Distinguished Achievers list, confirming this year as the largest HSC honor roll ever recorded. This accomplishment reflects the immense effort from not only the students themselves but also their teachers, families, and communities.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning, Prue Car, expressed her pride for the students. "Congratulations to all our students from the Class of 2024 who have worked hard to complete their HSC. It is fantastic to see hard work helping students to reach their full potential. Reaching the end of your schooling takes grit and dedication, and every student deserves to feel proud of their achievements. Whether you are moving to the workforce, advancing your education, enrolling in traineeships, or joining TAFE, I wish you all the best as you take your next steps forward," she said.
Similarly, Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education Steve Whan expressed his appreciation for all students involved. "Congratulations to all students who have sat for their HSC courses and exams this year. Today's results are pivotal for everyone, including VET students. Many of these graduates are leaving school with dual qualifications—the HSC and nationally recognized VET credentials— which establishes them well for successful future learning and career journeys, whether through apprenticeships, training, TAFE, or universities," he stated.
Highlighting the emotional weight of this milestone, NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) CEO Paul Martin remarked, "What an exciting milestone for the HSC Class of 2024. Today can bring with it much emotion; I remind all young people now leaving school—this is only the beginning. There are many ways to achieve your goals, and those goals can evolve over time. Continue learning to fuel your passions and interests. "
The heart of the celebration lies also with the students honored for their academic excellence. A record number, 131 NSW students, are recognized for clinching first or equal first place across HSC courses. This achievement encompasses 135 awards distributed among 82 different schools, with four individuals earning top spots in more than one discipline, and 33 students sharing equal firsts.
Prue Car emphasized the significance of these achievements, stating, "Congratulations to every student who has placed first this year. You’ve topped the state, among the largest group ever - that's really something to be proud of! Your academic excellence speaks to the hard work and dedication you’ve shown. We also recognize the efforts of all teachers, families, and peers who supported these exceptional results."
Whan reminded us also of the commitment by vocational education students, highlighting their skills through comprehensive courses. "The accomplishments reflected today position our students for bright futures post-high school. The combination of the HSC with VET qualifications offers additional pathways to either university study or immediate entrance to the workforce. These options are invaluable for shaping successful careers later on," he concluded.
Today's results signal not only the end of one chapter but also the beginning of new opportunities for these graduates. The support from teachers, staff members, families, and peers remains pivotal as students step confidently toward their futures, equipped with knowledge and skills they have honed throughout their schooling. With this remarkable HSC class coming to fruition, the future certainly looks promising for New South Wales.
