The NSW Minister for Education Adrian Piccoli said today that there had been almost 84 000 instances of HSC results being accessed online or by SMS.

More than 70 per cent were over the internet while more than 21 000 students had registered to receive their results via SMS, more than double the 2010 figure.

"In 2011, 71 415 students are eligible to receive a result for an HSC course,” said Mr Piccoli.

"Over 83 per cent of students receiving their full HSC will be eligible to apply to university with an ATAR - the ranking system used by universities to select students.

"That is an outstanding result and is a great reflection on the quality of the HSC.

“These students should all be congratulated for the hard work they have put in over the last two years.

"The fact that so many students have chosen to receive their results over the internet or by SMS is a clear indication of how important the HSC is to them as a qualification.

"To those students who haven't yet made a firm decision about what they want to do in the next stage of their lives, or to those students who did not get the result they were hoping for, it is important to remember that the HSC is not the end of the world.

"I would encourage those students to take the time to speak to their careers advisor or specialists in further education and training. There is a huge range of options available to young people leaving school. Persevere, and you will find the right one for you."

The Board of Studies HSC Results Inquiry Line is currently open on 131112 (calls must be made from a landline and are charged at the cost of a local call).