Leaving school

Some students leave school before finishing the Higher School Certificate (HSC). Learn about study and work options and how to showcase your knowledge and achievements.

Group of teenagers leaving school

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Helpful links

Record of School Achievement (RoSA)

Students who do not complete their HSC may receive a RoSA. Learn about eligibility, and the requirements and rules for documents issued to school leavers by NESA.

 

Find out more
Smiling female student looking at the camera

Your qualifications

Record your literacy and numeracy skills

Students can apply to sit the HSC minimum standard tests after leaving school if they have met all other requirements for the HSC. Learn more about sitting the tests and how to apply.

VET qualification documentation

There is documentation that recognises your VET qualification to show potential employers. Learn more about the qualifications.

RoSA certificates

View sample documents issued to school leavers.

Did you know: School leaving age

After Year 10 and until the age of 17, students must be in one of the following:

  • in school, or registered for home schooling 
  • in approved education or training
  • in full-time, paid employment (average 25 hours/week) 
  • in a combination of these 3.

Find out more about the school leaving age.

Information on your career options

Learn more about different career and employment pathways for students considering their next move.

Apprenticeships and traineeships

While still at school, students can do School-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SBAT), starting in Year 10 or 11. Find out more.

Vocational Education and Training course

You can take a TAFE-delivered Vocational Education and Training (TVET) course while you’re still at school that will count toward your school outcome.

Career and study pathways

Discover more options for students, including the latest programs and initiatives by the NSW Government.

More information

Find out more information on your work, career and study options when leaving school before the HSC.

Stay informed with NESA newsletters

Subscribe to NESA newsletters for all the latest news, media releases and official notices.

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Get in contact with NESA

You can contact NESA by phone or post. 

Call: +61 2 9367 8111

NSW Education Standards Authority
PO Box 5300
Sydney NSW 2001

Stay connected

Keep in touch by following NESA on social media.

For more information on how to contact a specific team or make a complaint, visit NESA's contact us page.

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