2025 HSC Exam Timetable: Essential Dates

Understanding the HSC exam timetable is essential for Year 12 students and parents in New South Wales.

This official schedule sets the dates and times for each written subject, helping families plan revision, manage workloads, and avoid missing critical exams. The 2025 HSC written exam timetable was released by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) on 2 May 2025 and covers all written exams from mid-October to early November. 

Looking to strengthen your child’s math skills for the HSC or beyond?

Check out WuKong’s online Math classes for kids interactive lessons designed to build solid foundations and confidence in mathematics

Check the latest timetable and start preparing now!

What Is the HSC Exam Timetable?

The Higher School Certificate (HSC) Exam Timetable is the official written-exam schedule for NSW Year 12 students published by NESA. It lists the dates, starting times, and length of every written paper so that students can plan effectively.

For 2025, NESA released the HSC written exam timetable on 2 May 2025.

The written exam period runs from Thursday 16 October to Monday 10 November 2025. This four-week block typically includes:

• Week 1: 16–17 October

• Week 2: 20–24 October

• Week 3: 27–31 October

• Week 4: 3–7 November

Exact finishing dates may vary for individual subjects; always confirm on Students Online.

How to access your personalised timetable:

– Log in to Students Online with your NESA credentials.
– View or download the timetable that lists only the subjects you are enrolled in, including venue and any disability provisions.
– Schools can access the full schedule through Schools Online.

Because minor changes can occur, NESA advises checking its official page (nesa.nsw.gov.au) regularly. Your personalised timetable on Students Online is always the definitive version.

Key Dates in the 2025 HSC Exam Timetable

Below is a snapshot of major dates for English (ELA), languages and mathematics based on the 2025 HSC written exam timetable:

Summary Table

This table highlights the first key papers and typical maths dates. Exact times for Chinese, other languages or EAL/D may differ. Students should cross-check their Students Online timetable and rely on the official NESA schedule as the final authority.

Preparing for ELA and Language Subjects

With the timetable set, students can work backwards from exam dates to create a high-impact revision plan:

• Backward planning: Start intensive revision two–three weeks before your first English paper. For 2025 that means early October.

• Reading and writing drills: Dedicate 30–45 minutes daily to unseen-text analysis, thesis development and timed essay writing.

• Language practice: For Chinese or other languages, combine listening, vocabulary, and composition practice. In the final week, rehearse under exam-time conditions.

• Time-management strategy: Map each week to a focus area (e.g., reading techniques 1–7 October, essay structure 8–14 October, full mock Paper 1 on 15 October).

• Extra help: WuKong Education’s [K-12 ELA courses] and Chinese language programs provide structured reading and writing modules aligned with HSC skills.

Using the HSC exam timetable to set daily targets reduces procrastination and builds confidence for both English and language exams.

Maths Preparation Aligned with the HSC Exam Timetable

Mathematics exams cluster in late October. Here’s how to use the timetable to your advantage:

• Past papers first: Complete at least two full past papers under timed conditions by early October. Self-mark using NESA’s published marking guidelines.

• Error log: Immediately review mistakes and compile a one-page “quick-fix” sheet of key formulas and problem types.

• Simulate exam days: Since maths exams often occur in the morning with other papers on adjacent days, practise managing energy and time.

• Week-by-week plan: Starting late September, schedule two full mock papers per week. Finish all major revision at least seven days before your first maths paper.

Combining these tactics with the official 2025 HSC exam timetable NSW ensures students hit peak performance on exam day. Looking to strengthen your child’s math skills for the HSC or beyond?
Check out WuKong’s online Math classes for kids interactive lessons designed to build solid foundations and confidence in mathematics

Roxy | WuKong Chinese Teacher

I have been deeply involved in the K12 education field for many years, acquiring rich professional knowledge and experience. My extensive understanding of Chinese culture and education enhances my ability to integrate diverse educational methodologies. I hold a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Melbourne, which bolsters my expertise and pedagogical skills. Passionate about fostering educational environments that inspire and empower, I am committed to creating inclusive learning experiences. My aim is to positively impact students’ lives and equip them with tools for success in a globalized world.