"When North Sydney Boys took the #1 ranking in 2023, it wasn't a fluke. The school has been building toward this for years, and the culture of excellence is evident in everything they do." — North Sydney Boys Parent
Guide Last Updated: January 2026
This guide is regularly updated with the latest HSC results, entry information, and school data. All statistics reflect the most recent available data.
North Sydney Boys High School at a Glance
North Sydney Boys High School achieved what many thought impossible - ending James Ruse's 27-year dominance of HSC rankings in 2023, then retaining the top position in 2024. This historic achievement has elevated the school's already strong reputation to new heights.
North Sydney Boys Quick Facts
Current statistics
HSC Ranking
Top in NSW (2024)
Year 7 Places
Available annually
Established
Over 110 years
Band 6 Rate
2024 HSC results
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About North Sydney Boys High School
School Profile
Essential information
| Official Name | North Sydney Boys High School | |
| Location | 127 Falcon Street, Crows Nest NSW 2060 | |
| Established | 1912 (current campus 1915) | |
| Type | Fully Selective, Boys Only | |
| Year 7 Intake | 150-154 students | |
| Total Enrolment | Approximately 950 students | |
| Website | northsydbo-h.schools.nsw.gov.au |
School History & Identity
North Sydney Boys was established in 1912 and moved to its current Falcon Street campus in 1915. The school has a proud tradition of academic excellence, cultural achievement, and sporting success. Students are known as "Falcons" and wear the distinctive maroon and white colours.
The school's Latin motto "Faber suae fortunae" (Architect of his own fortune) reflects its emphasis on student agency and personal responsibility for success.
Why Choose North Sydney Boys
Historic HSC Achievement
The school's back-to-back #1 HSC rankings in 2023 and 2024 represent a historic shift in NSW education. This wasn't accidental - it reflects years of sustained excellence and continuous improvement.
Recent HSC Highlights
- #1 in NSW (2023, 2024)
- 64.9% Band 6 rate (highest of any school in 2024)
- 52 All-Rounders in 2024 (34.4% of cohort achieved Band 6 in 10+ units)
- Multiple First in Course awards
Distinctive Features
What Sets North Sydney Boys Apart
- ✓**Support Unit for autism** - one of few selective schools offering this inclusion
- ✓**Annual exchange with Melbourne High School** - sporting and cultural competitions
- ✓**Joint musical productions** with North Sydney Girls High School
- ✓**Strong GPS sporting tradition** - competing against leading independent schools
- ✓**88% from non-English speaking backgrounds** - genuinely multicultural environment
Boys-Only Environment
North Sydney Boys offers a single-sex environment that some families prefer:
- Teaching approaches tailored to how boys learn
- No social distractions of co-educational settings
- Strong brotherhood and peer support culture
- Leadership opportunities in an all-male context
However, joint activities with North Sydney Girls (located nearby) provide opportunities for co-educational interaction in music, drama, and some events.
HSC Performance
North Sydney Boys has risen dramatically in HSC rankings, culminating in consecutive #1 positions.
North Sydney Boys HSC Rankings (Recent Years)
Based on Better Education data
| 2024 | #1 in NSW | 64.9% |
| 2023 | #1 in NSW | 69.0% |
| 2022 | #2 in NSW | 62.8% |
| 2021 | #2 in NSW | 59.3% |
The All-Rounder Achievement
In 2024, 52 students (34.4% of the cohort) achieved All-Rounder status - meaning they received Band 6 in 10 or more units. This is an exceptional achievement that demonstrates consistent excellence across multiple subjects, not just strength in one or two areas.
What This Means for Your Child
North Sydney Boys has demonstrated it can take high-achieving students and help them reach their full potential across all subjects. The school's teaching quality and academic culture clearly support outstanding outcomes.
Entry & Competition Level
Very High Competition
Following its HSC success, North Sydney Boys has become even more competitive for entry. It's now considered among the top 3 most competitive selective schools in NSW.
Competition Reality
What you're up against
Places Available
Year 7 intake
Entry Competition
Among selective schools
Historical Score
Out of 300 (2021 data)
Target Band
For strong candidacy
Rising Competition
Following the school's #1 HSC rankings, demand has increased significantly. Historical entry scores around 228/300 may no longer be sufficient. Students should aim for Top 10-15% performance across all test components.
Profile of Successful Applicants
What Successful North Sydney Boys Applicants Demonstrate
- ✓Strong performance across all four test components (Top 10-15%)
- ✓Particularly strong in Mathematical Reasoning and Thinking Skills
- ✓Good writing skills with clear structure and expression
- ✓Interest in a boys-only educational environment
- ✓Often involved in competitive activities (sport, music, debating)
Preference Strategy for North Sydney Boys
Should North Sydney Boys Be Your First Preference?
North Sydney Boys should be Preference 1 if:
- Your son consistently scores in Top 10-15% across practice tests
- You prefer a boys-only educational environment
- The Crows Nest location is accessible for your family
- Your son is attracted to the school's culture and traditions
Recommended Backup Preferences
Strategic Backup Schools
Based on competition level and location
| Sydney Boys High School | Boys only, strong traditions, CBD-adjacent | High |
| Normanhurst Boys High School | Boys only, rising star (#4 in 2024), Northern Sydney | High |
| Fort Street High School | Co-ed, Inner West, historic school | Competitive |
| Baulkham Hills High School | Co-ed alternative, very strong results | Very High |
Geographic Considerations
North Sydney Boys is located in Crows Nest, with excellent transport links:
- North Sydney Station nearby (Metro and train lines)
- Bus routes along Falcon Street and Pacific Highway
- Central location accessible from Northern Beaches, North Shore, and Inner West
- Approximately 10 minutes from Sydney CBD
Frequently Asked Questions
Is North Sydney Boys now better than James Ruse?
Both schools achieve exceptional results. North Sydney Boys has the higher HSC ranking (2023-2024), but James Ruse offers the unique agricultural program and co-educational environment. Entry to James Ruse remains more competitive. The "better" school depends on whether you prefer single-sex vs co-ed, and whether the agricultural program appeals.
What support does North Sydney Boys offer for students with autism?
North Sydney Boys has a Support Unit specifically for students with autism spectrum disorder. This makes it one of the few selective schools to offer this level of inclusion and support. Contact the school directly for details about the program.
How does North Sydney Boys compare to Sydney Boys High School?
Both are prestigious boys-only selective schools. Key differences:
- North Sydney Boys: #1 HSC ranking, Crows Nest location, ~150 intake
- Sydney Boys: Stronger sporting tradition, Moore Park location, 180 intake, established 1883
- HSC results favour North Sydney Boys in recent years
Is the competition for entry increasing?
Yes. Following the school's historic #1 rankings, demand has increased. The entry standard required is likely higher than historical data suggests. Focus on achieving Top 10% performance across all test components.
What are the school's main extracurricular strengths?
North Sydney Boys excels in:
- Music: Symphony orchestra, bands, choirs, joint productions with North Sydney Girls
- Sport: GPS competition in rugby, cricket, athletics, swimming
- Debating and public speaking: Strong competition record
- Academic competitions: Olympiads, science competitions, mathematics challenges
How much homework can students expect?
As a high-achieving academic school, expect significant homework loads - typically 2-3 hours per night in senior years. The school has high expectations for independent study and self-discipline.
Test Preparation & Next Steps
For comprehensive information about the selective test format, the 4 components, preparation timeline, and common mistakes to avoid, see our Complete NSW Selective School Entry Guide.
Preparation Resources
Start your North Sydney Boys journey
Complete NSW Selective Entry Guide
Everything about the test format, 4 components, preparation timeline, and strategies
Access ResourceFree Diagnostic Assessment
Identify your child's current level across all 4 test components
Access ResourceSelective School Preparation Course
Comprehensive program with 10,000+ practice questions and expert coaching
Access ResourceRelated School Guides
Considering other top selective schools? Explore our guides:
- James Ruse Agricultural High School - Most competitive entry
- Sydney Boys High School - Historic boys' school
- Normanhurst Boys High School - Rising star
- Baulkham Hills High School - Top co-ed option
Have questions about preparing for North Sydney Boys? Contact our team or explore our Selective School Preparation Program for personalised guidance.
This guide is updated annually. Last reviewed: January 2026.