Almost 12,500 North East students sat the first English exam, with one question on language analysis surprising some at Catholic College Wodonga.

Ainslee O’Connell, 18, said students had to write an essay based on an opinion piece and a letter of reply.

“In other years, there has only been one article,” she said.

“We thought it was unlikely we would get two but, going into exams, we were told to expect anything.”

Mitch Cowan, 18, said he had to spend more time than expected on the question because it involved two texts.

“It was difficult to know where to introduce the second article into the essay,” he said.

Despite the surprise, the students were relieved to have the paper done and ready to hit the books again for their next exam.

Andrew Wain, 18, said he thought English was the hardest subject because students could be thrown “curve balls”.

“You can’t really prepare for it,” he said.

The students said it was surreal to think they had reached their last block of year 12 exams.

“You spend so much time preparing for it and then it’s just over,” Andrew said.

“I feel confident but mostly glad it’s over.”

English teacher and senior school head Tess Macrae said she was pleased with the paper and believed every student would have been able to answer the questions.

“Those who were not overly confident could understand the questions and those who were could excel,” she said.

Ms Macrae did not believe the two articles were too much of a shock.

“I think it throws them a little bit perhaps because they have to think a little more broadly,” she said.

“We tell the students if they think it’s a hard paper, then it’s hard for everyone in the state.”

Ms Macrae said the VCE did not deserve to be seen in a negative light.

“It’s a chance for the students to show off their hard work,” she said.

“We are just so happy to see the students come out with a smile on their faces.”

About 22,800 North East students will sit at least one VCE exam before testing wraps up on November 19.