
For many Australian students, the Higher School Certificate (HSC) represents the final hurdle before stepping into adulthood — and it’s one of the most stressful experiences they’ll ever face. The pressure comes from all directions: exams, expectations, uncertainty about the future, and the fear that one set of marks will determine everything that follows.
The HSC’s design itself creates tension. Students are asked to master a broad range of subjects, remember large volumes of information, and perform under strict time limits. The exams are heavily weighted, meaning a few hours in a silent hall can shape years of effort. This high-stakes environment naturally fuels anxiety. Even capable students often doubt themselves, fearing that one bad day could undo years of hard work.
Adding to this is the ATAR system, which ranks students against each other. Instead of focusing on personal growth or genuine learning, many feel they’re in a competition — not just with classmates, but with thousands of others across the state. That comparison culture can make students feel like numbers rather than people.
Outside the classroom, the stress doesn’t stop. Many juggle part-time jobs, sport, family expectations, and social commitments while trying to revise for multiple subjects. Parents and teachers, while well-meaning, can sometimes add pressure through constant reminders about “how important” the exams are. For students already struggling with anxiety or perfectionism, this can be overwhelming.
Social media also plays a role. When peers post study routines, scores, or “productive day” montages, it reinforces the idea that everyone else is coping better — which, of course, isn’t true. The result is burnout, sleepless nights, and a loss of motivation right when it’s needed most.
But it’s worth remembering that the HSC, while challenging, is not the ultimate measure of a person’s potential. There are countless pathways after school, and no single exam defines intelligence, creativity, or success. Recognising this perspective — and supporting each other through the chaos — can turn the HSC from a source of panic into a lesson in resilience.
Tom Gloster