Students sat the first of their exams in the college hall.

After months of preparation, more than 47,000 students Victoria-wide sat the English exam, which is mandatory for all year 12 students.

Education Minister Bronwyn Pike wished Victoria's VCE students the best of luck during the exam season.

``While it is important for students to stay focused and do a lot of revision, they should also remember to take breaks and relax with friends and family,'' Ms Pike said.

Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority chief executive officer, John Firth, said students would be reminded to abide by exam rules thanks to a new warning poster.

``Students are reminded there is a ban on recorded music devices, phones and unauthorised calculators,'' Mr Firth said.

``The penalties that apply for rule breaches will be prominently displayed at VCE exams centres.''

Once the exam period is completed, students will receive their results via SMS, the internet and over the phone from 7am on Monday, December 14.