A letter allegedly issued by the NSW Education Standards Authority, claiming a rescheduling of the Higher School Certificate (HSC) exam, has been dismissed as a hoax.

The misleading notice, which claims that English Paper 2 students must retake their final exam, has been circulating widely. The education board has criticized this false information, highlighting that it unnecessarily stresses students.

“We are aware of a hoax being circulated online about ‘rescheduled exams’ for English Paper 2,” stated a spokesperson for the NSW Education Standards Authority in an announcement made Saturday evening.

“This information is false and very disappointing,” the spokesperson added.

“Spreading hoaxes only adds to the stress for students, who are concentrating on their exam preparations. Students are urged to ignore any rumors or hoaxes regarding exam content or scheduling that may appear on any platform. For any concerns or questions, always reach out directly to your school.”

“HSC students are advised to disregard rumours and hoaxes about exam content or schedules shared on any platform. Always contact your school directly if you have any concerns or questions.”

The letter, which appears to be on a NSW Education Standards Authority letterhead, states the exam was compromised and “due to a breach in the confidentiality”, the exam would be done again for all students.

However, the board says there are “rigorous processes” in place to “protect the security of exams and to maintain their confidentiality”.

The HSC exams began across NSW on October 16 and run through to November 7, with results announced on December 18.

The marks students receive in these exams provide entry into tertiary education, with the pupils receiving a “TER”, or Tertiary Entrance Rank, determining which courses and universities they can apply for.