STUDENTS who will sit their Higher School Certificate (HSC) in the shadow of the pandemic will receive five adjustment points from the University of Newcastle in what the institution bills as a sector-first system.
The university on Wednesday announced the measures as part of a scheme "in recognition of the extraordinary challenges faced during their COVID-19 disrupted HSC year".
The points will be automatically applied via the Universities Admission Centre (UAC) for all school leavers who preference the Hunter university.
Vice-chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky said it was the university's position in Newcastle that had brought the plight of students to the forefront.
He said the scheme was a way to help reduce exam stress and anxiety.
"What we've heard from schools is that Year 12 students are absolutely feeling the pressure and have found this year exceedingly challenging," he said.
"We want to reassure young people and their families that they will be okay.
"Knowing that the pandemic has been a huge distraction for students undertaking their HSC year, we didn't want COVID-19 to be the reason someone isn't able to achieve their goal of a university education and the life-long opportunities it can provide."
The university is also offering a tutoring program where Masters of Teaching students assist through one-on-one tutoring.
