For many SACE subjects, external examinations are used to test your knowledge of everything you have learned in the past year. SACE exams can be in multiple formats, whether that be online or on paper. In this article, we will be diving into what to expect on exam day and how to prepare for it.
- Where can I find my Exam Information?
- How to Arrange for Special Provisions?
- How am I Scored?
- Will I know my Results?
- FAQs
Where can I find my Exam Information?
The SACE website is your go-to for finding all your exam information. KIS Academics has also consolidated the important dates for the 2025 exams:
Manoj Arachige
If you search for your subject on the SACE website, you should be able to find a link to a page explaining which format your exam will be in, and how long you will have to complete it. Make sure you have all the dates and time limits recorded on your calendar and planner!
How to arrange for Special Provisions?
- First, contact your school. You should speak to your subject teacher, school SACE coordinator or school counsellor.
- Be specific about your needs so that your school can determine the best special provision for you.
- You will then need to gather evidence, including results, reports, or teacher observations.
- Your school will then make a decision based on these events and notify SACE so that you can complete the exam according to your special provisions.
How do I Prepare for the Exams?
- The best way to prepare for exams is to do as many practice questions as possible. You can find them on the SACE website, or ask your teacher for more resources.
- Time yourself when doing the practice papers.
- If you need more targeted exam preparation, you can find your best local tutor at KIS Academics.
- Review your previous exam papers, and mock exam papers.
What should I expect on the Big Day?
- Your teacher should notify you of the exam start time and what time to arrive at the exam location before the day.
- In the exam hall, the tables should be separated and you should have a designated spot to sit with your SACE identification number on the desk.
- If your exam is to be completed on paper, your papers should be handed out by the exam facilitator. If your exam is online, make sure you bring a charged device to complete it on.
- Typically, your school will install the SACE online exam browser onto your school’s device. If you are unsure about this, seek guidance from your SACE school coordinator.
- Keep in mind that the exam facilitator will not be your subject teacher.
- In the unlikely case of an emergency, your exam facilitator will direct you to the nearest exit and your exam will cease.
How am I Scored?
- Once the exam has been completed by everyone in the subject, the SACE board will moderate and mark each exam.
- Your exam will be looked at by more than one moderator to ensure fairness. No one exam will be marked more harshly than another.
- Firstly, one moderator will look at your answers and mark them according to the mark scheme. Once this process is completed, another moderator will look at your answers and mark your exam. If there is a large disagreement between the two marks, a third moderator will look at your exam until a consensus is made.
Will I know my Results?
You will be able to find out your exam results the day your ATAR is released.
Unfortunately, you will not be able to find out how you scored on each question, but you will receive a grade for each subject.
You will later be sent a physical exam result in the post with your ATAR.
Conclusion
The external exams can be daunting, but with the right preparation and the right tools, you will be able to ace it. Get a tutor from KIS Academics to achieve your academic goals now!
What to do if you encounter a big issue during the exam?
- Raise your hand ASAP to get the attention of the exam facilitator, and seek guidance from them.
- This is especially prevalent for any technical difficulties you may face doing an online examination.
Best study tips?
- Do timed practices.
- Ask questions when you are unsure.
- Study blogs.
What if you don't get a good ATAR?
- It is not the end of the world, there are alternative pathways to getting into University (if that is your goal).
- If University is not your goal, you can still get technical certications (TAFE/VET) and work in a trade.
Written by Charlotte Kenning who pursued a Bachelor of Speech Pathology at Flinders University.
Looking for some extra help to guide you through your SACEs? Look no further, KIS Academics has many brilliant tutors that can help you achieve your academic goals.
