Achieving the SACE

The SACE journey

To be awarded the SACE, students must achieve 200 credits from a selection of Stage 1 and Stage 2 subjects. A 10-credit subject is usually one semester of study, and a 20-credit subject is usually over 2 semesters. 

  • To successfully complete the SACE, students must achieve the following compulsory components:

    • Literacy
      A minimum of 20 credits from Stage 1 English subjects.

    • Numeracy
      A minimum of 10 credits from Stage 1 Mathematics subjects.

    • Exploring Identities and Futures (EIF)
      A 10-credit Stage 1 subject focused on personal development, goal setting, and future pathways.

    • Activating Identities and Futures (AIF)
      A 10-credit Stage 2 major project, where students undertake in-depth research and apply their learning to a chosen area of interest.

    • Stage 2 Subjects
      Completion of at least 60 credits from a range of Stage 2 subjects, contributing towards the ATAR.

    The remaining 90 credits can be completed through a combination of additional Stage 1 or Stage 2 subjects, or other Board-recognised courses of the student’s choice, allowing flexibility to support individual interests, strengths, and future pathways.

  • Student achievement in Stage 1 subjects is reported using grades from A to E. These grades align with SACE performance standards, which describe the extent to which students have demonstrated their understanding, skills, and application of subject content.

  • Detailed subject outlines, assessment information, and additional guidance can be found in the Curriculum Guide and on the SACE website.