How to choose HSC subjects

We’ll walk you through what to consider so you can choose your Year 11 and 12 subjects with confidence. With so many senior subjects available, it’s normal to feel unsure about where to start. This guide provides practical tips based on your interests and career goals, making your decision easier and clearer.

What to consider when choosing HSC subjects

1. Think about your interests

You’ll spend a lot of time studying these subjects, so it’s important you’re interested in what you’re learning. You’re also more likely to do well in subjects you enjoy. Your interests can help guide your future career pathways and university study options.

2. Consider your future university courses

Some university programs have prerequisites. These are mandatory requirements that should be completed before starting the program. At UNSW, we don’t have prerequisites, we have assumed knowledge. Assumed knowledge is background understanding they expect you to have. It helps to check assumed knowledge early. Doing this can make your transition to university smoother. You can find the assumed knowledge within the entry requirements of our undergraduate degrees. 

Not sure what you want to study at university? Read our article on how to find the right university course. 

3. Be realistic about your workload

Your workload in Year 11 and 12 can vary. We recommend picking subjects that interest you and adjusting later if needed. Once you get an idea about your workload in Year 11, then you can reassess and drop subjects if needed. You might consider choosing a diverse range of subjects to have a varied workload. Try to choose subjects that balance well with part-time work or extracurriculars.

4. Talk to your careers adviser, teachers or parents

What you want to study in the HSC is your choice, but your careers advisers, teachers or family may be able to give you some advice.  

• Teachers: Your teachers know your strengths, how you’re progressing in class and can help you with choosing subjects that match what you might want to study after high school.
• Careers adviser: Your careers adviser can provide advice to help you understand the right pathway for you to reach your desired career. 
• Family: Your family may be a great source of advice and able to share learnings from their own experiences. Even if you're the first in your family to go to uni, they may be able to help you explore where your interests and long-term goals may lead.
  

Talking to people who know you can make the process clearer and help you make an informed decision.

5. Make thoughtful choices

Choosing your subjects for your senior years is important, but they’re only one part of your broader education journey. Try not to let subject selection overwhelm you – these choices don’t limit your future. There are many pathways to reach your goals, and choosing your HSC subjects is just the first step.