BlogAncient HistoryThe Master List of HSC Ancient History Past Papers

The Master List of HSC Ancient History Past Papers

HSC Ancient History Past Papers

We know studying for Ancient can be really difficult, and so can getting your hands on all the HSC Ancient History past papers you need!

So much content! So little time!

However, we know that HSC Ancient History past papers are the best way to reinforce all that content and make sure you ace that HSC Ancient History Exam! 

This list includes papers that followed the previous syllabus, so any paper before 2019 will look a little different to what you’ve been studying — but this doesn’t mean that they aren’t useful.

Ready to start revising with some past papers? Let’s go!

Changes to HSC Ancient History Past Papers
How to Study for Ancient History
Ancient History Past Papers

Changes to HSC Ancient History Past Papers

As we’ve mentioned initially, any past papers from 2019 and prior are structured differently to the papers that follow the current syllabus.

These papers have multiplechoice questions in the Cities of Vesuvius Source Study. With the current syllabus, this section consists of three or four questions, with one worth 10-15 marks.

Papers from before 2020 have always had four questions in the Ancient Society section, but now they may have three or four.

For the Personality section, older papers have had two questions, but there can now be two or three, with at least one of them worth 10-15 marks.

The Historical Period Section remains the same, providing two 25 mark essay questions, one of which you are required to answer.

But don’t worry too much about these changes, you can take a look at the sample paper for the 2019 exam here (which is how your exam paper should look). 

However, the old past papers are not useless — they are still great practice for the real thing! Just be mindful and aware that some of the sections will look different and the question types may be different.

So, without further ado, here’s a comprehensive list of all the HSC Ancient History past papers you’ll ever need!

How to Study for Ancient History

There’s no doubt that Ancient History is a content-heavy subject (but this can be said for all subjects that you study).

Not to worry though — we’ve got some helpful tips you can follow to learn the content easily and ace the different types of responses required of you in the exams.

Here are some resources you’ll want to refer to when having a go at questions from the past papers:

For exam prep, you’ll need to manage your time well and have your notes ready for revision. Check out our advice below:

HSC Ancient History Past Papers

HSC Ancient History Exam Paper
HSC Ancient History Marking Guidelines
2022 Exam Paper2022 Marking Guidelines
2021 Exam Paper2021 Marking Guidelines
2020 Exam Paper2020 Marking Guidelines
2019 Exam Paper2019 Marking Guidelines
2018 Exam Paper2018 Marking Guidelines
2017 Exam Paper2017 Marking Guidelines
2016 Exam Paper2016 Marking Guidelines
2015 Exam Paper2015 Marking Guidelines
2014 Exam Paper2014 Marking Guidelines
2013 Exam Paper2013 Marking Guidelines
2012 Exam Paper2012 Marking Guidelines
2011 Exam Paper2011 Marking Guidelines
2010 Exam Paper2010 Marking Guidelines
2009 Exam Paper2009 Marking Guidelines

Looking for more practice questions? Check out the ones we’ve created below:

You can also check out our tips for scoring a Band 6 here!

Looking for some extra help with HSC Ancient History?

We have an incredible team of HSC Ancient History tutors and mentors!

We can help you master the HSC Ancient History syllabus and ace your upcoming HSC Ancient History assessments with personalised lessons conducted one-on-one in your home or at one of our state of the art campuses in Hornsby or the Hills!

Get your practice papers marked by one of our Hills District tutors or our Strathfield HSC experts so you can improve your exam technique and get ready for the HSC!

We’ve supported over 8,000 students over the last 11 years, and on average our students score mark improvements of over 20%!

To find out more and get started with an inspirational HSC Ancient History tutor and mentor, get in touch today or give us a ring on 1300 267 888!


Jack Theodoulou studies a double degree of Education/Arts majoring in English at the University of Sydney. Previously an instructor of classical guitar, Jack began coaching at Art of Smart in 2015. In his spare time, Jack often finds himself entangled in a love-hate relationship with creative writing and an occasional obsession with video games.

45,861 students have a head start...

Get exclusive study content & advice from our team of experts delivered weekly to your inbox!

AOS Website Asset 2

Looking for Ancient History Support?

Discover how we can help you!

AOS Website Asset 1