Director, Learning Systems and Analytics

What can we learn from the 2024 HSC results?

The 2024 Higher School Certificate results marked the completion of 13 years of education for more than 57,000 students across New South Wales. This year’s cohort, was one of the largest in recent history. 

Summary of 2024 ATAR Results

This year, 57,194 students received an ATAR, marking an increase of 1,671 compared to 2023. Of these, 17.8% achieved an ATAR of 90.00 or higher, showcasing strong academic performance across the state. The median ATAR rose slightly to 71.55, with female students attaining a median of 72.40 and male students 70.40. Notably, 56.8% of Year 12 UAC applicants were female, with around 30% selecting a health-related degree as their first preference.

ATAR Distribution

A total of 49 students accomplished the highest possible ATAR of 99.95, an outstanding achievement representing just 0.1% of the cohort. Among them, 42 were male and nine were female, highlighting ongoing trends in academic performance across different subject areas. 17.8% of students achieved an ATAR of 90 or above, and 35.5% attained 80 or higher.

• 1.8% of students achieved an ATAR between 99.00 and 99.95.
• 8.9% secured an ATAR between 95.00 and 98.95.
• 52.6% attained an ATAR of 70.00 or above, reflecting a strong overall performance.

The Path to a 99.95 ATAR

Earning an ATAR of 99.95 is an extraordinary feat, with only 49 students achieving this distinction. These students excelled across a broad range of subjects, with 34 different HSC courses represented among top achievers. This diversity underscores the importance of selecting subjects based on individual strengths and interests.

Subject Selection and Scaling Insights

Subjects such as Mathematics Extension 1 and 2, Physics, and Chemistry continued to scale strongly due to the strong performance of students who typically choose these courses. High scaling doesn’t guarantee success. Success ultimately comes from choosing subjects that align with a student’s abilities, enthusiasm and self-motivation.

Advice for Future HSC Students

For students preparing for their HSC journey, here are some key tips for success:

• Choose Wisely: Select subjects that match your strengths and interests.
• Maintain Consistency: Develop a strong knowledge and understanding across all your subjects, especially English, as this must count in your ATAR. 
• Seek Support: Your teachers and mentors can provide valuable guidance. 
• Set Goals: Use KWS resources and academic tools, such as ATAR meetings, and planning resources to establish realistic academic targets. Work to identify weaknesses and dedicate time to improving these areas. 
• Develop Effective Study Habits: Regular study and a balanced workload can make a significant difference.

These results highlight the dedication and hard work of students throughout their HSC journey. With continued support from teachers, families, and peers, students can confidently pursue their academic and career aspirations. The 2024 outcomes reaffirm the importance of perseverance and strategic planning in achieving success, setting a strong foundation for future cohorts to follow.