Welcome to Selective Schools Test Information

Your guide to mastering the Selective Schools test and securing a spot in a top school.

This website contains everything you need to know and product comparisons.

Visit octests.com.au for Selective Test Information

What is the Selective Schools Test?

The Selective Schools Test is a highly competitive examination designed to assess the academic aptitude of students in New South Wales, Australia. Administered by the NSW Department of Education, this test determines entry into government-run selective schools, which provide an enriched educational environment for academically gifted students.

The Selective Schools Test is comprised of multiple components, including sections on Reading, Mathematics, Thinking Skills, and Writing, all aimed at measuring a student’s critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and academic proficiency. With tens of thousands of applicants every year vying for limited spots, thorough preparation is essential for success.

Why is the Selective Schools Test Important?

Admission to a selective school is a significant achievement. These schools provide students with advanced resources, high-quality teaching, and a learning environment that fosters academic excellence. They are known for consistently achieving top marks in state-wide and national testing. Entry into such schools opens the door to a world of opportunities, from advanced learning programs to university scholarships and beyond.

Understanding the Test Structure

The Selective Schools Test is divided into several key sections, each designed to assess different aspects of a student's academic ability. Here's a breakdown of the test structure:

Reading Comprehension

This section tests a student's ability to understand, interpret, and evaluate written passages. It includes various types of texts, from fiction to non-fiction, and focuses on a range of skills such as vocabulary understanding, literal and inferential comprehension, and the ability to analyse the text.

Mathematic Reasoning

The Mathematics section evaluates a student's understanding of numerical concepts, ranging from basic arithmetic to more complex topics like algebra, geometry, and data interpretation. Problem-solving and the application of logical thinking are critical in this section.

Thinking Skills

This section tests a student's reasoning and logic skills through a series of verbal and non-verbal questions. Thinking Skills questions may include patterns, sequences, analogies, and other problems that require abstract thinking and fast decision-making.

Writing

In the writing section, students are tasked with crafting a structured response to a prompt. This is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their ability to convey ideas clearly, use correct grammar, and present persuasive or creative arguments.

General Preparation Tips for Success

Preparing for the Selective Schools Test requires focus, discipline, and a strategic approach. Here are some essential tips to help students maximise their chances of success:

Remember, preparation for the Selective Schools Test is not just about hard work; it's about working smart. Stay organised, focused, and motivated as you approach the test date.

Looking for Preparation Platforms?

Take a look out our detailed breakdown of online Selective Test preparation platforms before making the important decision of who to continue with.

See Detailed Comparison of Online Platforms

Looking for Tutoring Centres?

Take a look out our detailed breakdown of tutoring centres before making the important decision of who to continue with.

See Detailed Comparison of Tutoring Centres

In-Depth Preparation Strategies for the Selective Schools Test

Mastering the Selective Schools Test requires not only academic knowledge but also a well-rounded strategy tailored to the test’s structure. Here, we provide in-depth preparation strategies to help students approach each section with confidence and optimise their chances of success.

Reading Comprehension Preparation

The Reading Comprehension section is designed to assess a student’s ability to read and comprehend complex passages quickly and accurately. To excel, students should:

Reading is weighted as 25% of your final weighted percentile, making this section important.

Mathematics Preparation

The Mathematics section tests a broad range of mathematical concepts, from arithmetic to advanced problem-solving. Here’s how students can prepare effectively:

Mathematical Reasoning is weighted as 25% of your final weighted percentile, making this section important.

Thinking Skills Preparation

Thinking Skills questions challenge a student's logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and ability to recognise patterns. These tips will help sharpen skills for this section:

Thinking Skills is weighted as 35% of your final weighted percentile, making this section very important.

Writing Preparation

In the writing section, students need to craft well-structured responses that demonstrate clarity, creativity, and analytical thinking. Here are strategies to improve writing skills:

Writing is weighted as 15% of your final weighted percentile, which makes you stand out if you're aiming for a top selective school.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Selective Schools Test

What is the Selective Schools Test?

The Selective Schools Test is an examination held annually in New South Wales, designed to assess the academic capabilities of students seeking placement in selective high schools. It is intended for Year 6 students aiming to enter Year 7 at selective public high schools. The test measures a range of skills across various subjects to determine a student’s eligibility for selective school admission.

What is the format of the Selective Schools Test?

The Selective Schools Test comprises four sections: Reading, Mathematical Reasoning, Thinking Skills, and Writing. Each section evaluates different aspects of a student’s academic ability:

  • Reading: Comprehension of complex texts
  • Mathematical Reasoning: Problem-solving and numerical reasoning
  • Thinking Skills: Critical thinking and logical reasoning
  • Writing: A written response to a prompt
The test is conducted under timed conditions, with a total duration of around 3 hours.

How competitive is the Selective Schools Test?

Each year, approximately 15,000 to 20,000 students in New South Wales apply to take the Selective Schools Test. However, only a limited number of spots are available across the state's selective schools, with around 4,000 places offered annually. This makes the competition for selective school entry highly competitive, with students needing to perform at a high level across all test sections.

How is the Selective Schools Test scored?

The test is scored based on each student's performance in the four sections: Reading, Mathematical Reasoning, Thinking Skills, and Writing. Raw scores are converted to standardised scores to ensure fairness across different test versions. The final score is a combination of the test results and school assessment scores (from Year 5 reports and assessments). These combined scores are used to determine a student’s ranking for placement in selective schools.

What are the eligibility criteria for selective schools?

To be eligible for selective school placement, students must be in Year 6 when they sit the Selective Schools Test and demonstrate high academic achievement. Applicants are assessed based on their test performance and school assessment scores. Selection is determined by a ranking system, with the highest-ranked students offered places in selective high schools.

How can students prepare for the Selective Schools Test?

Students preparing for the Selective Schools Test should focus on enhancing their skills in reading comprehension, mathematical reasoning, critical thinking, and writing. Preparation can include practicing past papers, timed mock tests, and developing strong problem-solving techniques. It is also important to maintain consistent school performance, as school assessments contribute to the final score.

When and where is the Selective Schools Test held?

The Selective Schools Test is held annually, typically in March, at designated test centers across New South Wales. Students are notified of their test venue upon successful registration. The results of the test are usually released a few months later, and students are informed of their placement offers by July.

What happens after the test?

After the test, the results are compiled and ranked. Students receive a placement outcome, which may include offers to attend one or more selective schools, depending on their preferences and performance. If a student does not receive an initial offer, they may be placed on a reserve list for their preferred school.

Are there any alternative pathways to selective schools?

While the Selective Schools Test is the primary pathway for entry into selective high schools, some schools may also offer opportunities for entry in later years, such as Year 8 or Year 9, through additional testing. These opportunities vary by school, and students interested in this pathway should check the specific school’s policy for further details.

What types of schools offer selective classes?

Selective classes are offered in three types of schools: fully selective schools, partially selective schools, and agricultural high schools. Fully selective schools offer selective classes for all enrolled students. Partially selective schools have both selective classes and mainstream classes. Agricultural high schools have a focus on agriculture while also offering selective classes. Some schools may also offer boarding facilities.

What happens if a student does not get into a selective school?

If a student is not successful in gaining a placement in a selective school, they will continue in their current school or another local school. Students can continue to apply for selective school entry in later years, as some schools accept applications for entry in Year 8 or 9 through different testing processes. In addition, some students who did not receive an initial offer may still be placed on a reserve list for potential offers if spots become available.

Are accommodations available for students with special needs?

Yes, accommodations are available for students with special needs taking the Selective Schools Test. These accommodations are designed to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to perform to their best ability. Parents or guardians must apply for these adjustments during the application process, providing documentation of the student’s needs. Examples of accommodations include extra time, rest breaks, or the use of specialised equipment.

Can students change their selective school preferences after applying?

Yes, students can change their preferences for selective schools after submitting their application, but this must be done within the designated period before the test. After this period, changes to preferences are typically not allowed. It is important for students and parents to carefully consider their choices before submitting them.

How do selective schools differ from regular public schools?

Selective schools differ from regular public schools in that they cater to students with high academic ability. Admission is based on merit, primarily through the Selective Schools Test. These schools often have a more challenging curriculum, tailored to students who are academically gifted. Selective schools provide an environment that fosters academic excellence and typically offer enhanced resources, extracurricular activities, and opportunities for leadership development.

What role do school reports play in the selection process?

In addition to test scores, students' school reports from Year 5 are an important part of the selection process for selective schools. These reports provide information about the student’s academic performance across various subjects, behavior, and engagement in school activities. A strong school report, combined with good test performance, increases a student’s chances of being offered a place in a selective school.

Comprehensive List of Selective Schools in New South Wales

Below is a detailed table of all Selective Schools in New South Wales, including the number of available spots for each school. This information is essential for students and parents planning their applications for the Selective Schools Test.

School Name Location Available Spots Website
James Ruse Agricultural High School Carlingford 120 Visit Website
Sydney Boys High School Moore Park 150 Visit Website
Sydney Girls High School Surry Hills 140 Visit Website
North Sydney Boys High School Crows Nest 130 Visit Website
North Sydney Girls High School Crows Nest 130 Visit Website
Baulkham Hills High School Baulkham Hills 110 Visit Website
Hornsby Girls High School Hornsby 100 Visit Website
Fort Street High School Newtown 115 Visit Website
St George Girls High School Kogarah 105 Visit Website
Chatswood High School Chatswood 60 Visit Website
Penrith High School Penrith 120 Visit Website
Smith's Hill High School Wollongong 150 Visit Website
Gosford High School Gosford 150 Visit Website
Hurlstone Agricultural High School Glenfield 120 Visit Website
Sydney Technical High School Bexley 150 Visit Website
Tempe High School Tempe 60 Visit Website
Caringbah High School Caringbah 150 Visit Website
Manly Selective Campus Manly 150 Visit Website
Parramatta High School Parramatta 100 Visit Website
St Ives High School St Ives 60 Visit Website
Merewether High School Merewether 150 Visit Website
Girraween High School Girraween 120 Visit Website
Normanhurst Boys High School Normanhurst 120 Visit Website
St George Boys High School Kogarah 150 Visit Website
Alexandria Park Community School Alexandria 60 Visit Website
Armidale Secondary College Armidale 30 Visit Website
Auburn Girls High School Auburn 60 Visit Website
Birrong Boys High School Birrong 60 Visit Website
Blakehurst High School Blakehurst 60 Visit Website
Bonnyrigg High School Bonnyrigg 30 Visit Website
Camden High School Camden 30 Visit Website
Canterbury Boys High School Canterbury 60 Visit Website
Coonabarabran High School Coonabarabran 15 Visit Website
East Hills Boys High School East Hills 60 Visit Website
Elizabeth Macarthur High School Narellan Vale 60 Visit Website
Glen Innes High School Glen Innes 15 Visit Website
Gorokan High School Lake Haven 60 Visit Website
Granville Boys High School Granville 30 Visit Website
Heathcote High School Heathcote 60 Visit Website
Hoxton Park High School Hoxton Park 60 Visit Website
Hunter Sports High School Gateshead 30 Visit Website
Illawarra Sports High School Berkeley 30 Visit Website
Karabar High School Karabar 30 Visit Website
Ku-ring-gai High School North Turramurra 60 Visit Website
Leumeah High School Leumeah 30 Visit Website
Macquarie Fields High School Macquarie Fields 150 Visit Website
Marsden High School West Ryde 60 Visit Website
Merrylands High School Merrylands 30 Visit Website
Moorebank High School Moorebank 30 Visit Website
Picnic Point High School Picnic Point 60 Visit Website
Prairiewood High School Prairiewood 60 Visit Website
Sefton High School Sefton 150 Visit Website
Strathfield Girls High School Strathfield 60 Visit Website
Sydney Secondary College Balmain Campus Balmain 60 Visit Website
Sydney Secondary College Leichhardt Campus Leichhardt 60 Visit Website
Westfields Sports High School Fairfield West 30 Visit Website
Wollongong High School of the Performing Arts Fairy Meadow 60 Visit Website

*Please note that the number of available spots may vary each year based on the school's capacity and the number of applicants.

Platform Comparison for Selective School Test Preparation

Feature testacademy.com.au selectivetests.com.au selectivetrial.com.au braindocacademy.com.au oztests.com.au
Personalised Learning Features Yes, personalised weekly study schedules and weekly performance summaries Offers a structured study plan Detailed course selection options Just fixed test packages Just fixed test packages
Writing Feedback Yes, unlimited with detailed feedback on writing, personalised exemplars, and literary technique analysis Writing feedback provided Yes, offers basic writing feedback for select packages No No
Practice Questions Large question bank with very detailed question explanations Moderate question bank, focused on selective and OC exams Large question bank with very detailed question explanations Smaller bank of questions with great question explanations Many full-length tests for various exams
Analytics & Progress Tracking Advanced analytics, real-time performance tracking, and percentiles against other students Basic performance tracking, lacks detailed analytics Useful raw score reports (but outdated), no detailed progress insights Progress reports and percentiles against other students Basic progress reports
Free Trials or Free Resources Yes, includes full-length free tests and marked writing Free sample tests provided Limited free trial, includes sample tests No free trials Free full-length tests available
Price Range Moderate price per test Moderate price per test Expensive price per test Expensive price per test Expensive price per test
Support WhatsApp, Messenger, Email Phone and Email Phone and Email Email WhatsApp, Messenger, Email
Consultations Video calls for educational advice No No No No

Our Choice: testacademy.com.au

After evaluating all the platforms, testacademy.com.au emerges as the top choice for its comprehensive and personalised approach. With personalised study plans, detailed progress analytics, extensive question banks, and mobile optimisation, it provides a holistic solution for Selective School Test preparation. While other platforms offer some useful features, none match the complete package and adaptability of testacademy.com.au.

Tutoring Centre Comparison in Sydney

Feature Success Tutoring Alpha One James An Scholola Pre-Uni New College NumberWorks'nWords North Shore Coaching College
Personalised Tutoring Yes, highly individualised Yes, focused on selective school preparation No, large class format Yes, adaptive and tailored tutoring No, fixed group lessons Yes, individualised learning programs Yes, some personalisation but mainly group-based
Qualified Tutors Yes, trained and experienced educators Yes, but varies by subject Experienced, but not all certified Yes, specialists in different fields Yes, selective entry students Yes, qualified educators Yes, highly qualified, selective tutors
Class Sizes Small, 1:1 or very small groups Small groups, max 4 students Larger, up to 25 students per class Small group or 1:1 Larger classes, typically over 20 students Small groups or 1:1 Larger classes, typical for coaching centers
Programs Offered K-12, HSC, Selective, and OC prep Selective and scholarship prep Selective schools and OC exams All subjects, K-12, including creative fields Selective schools, HSC, and OC prep Maths and English, primary through high school Selective, OC, and HSC prep
Learning Environment Encouraging, growth-oriented Focused on academic achievement Highly competitive, exam-focused Student-centered, collaborative Competitive, geared toward selective entry Supportive, focused on building confidence Highly competitive, focused on excellence
Price Range Moderate, flexible pricing options Higher end, premium service Moderate to high, depending on course Affordable, custom pricing Moderate to high Moderate, custom packages Moderate, varies by program
Free Trial or Initial Consultation Yes, free consultation and assessment No, paid trial lessons No trial, fixed programs Yes, free consultation No, paid trial programs Yes, free assessment offered No, paid trial sessions
Locations Multiple locations across Sydney and online Mainly in selective hubs Several locations in Sydney suburbs Multiple locations and fully online Primarily in urban locations Multiple Sydney locations, also online Many locations across Sydney suburbs

Our Choices: Success Tutoring & Scholola

After comparing the various tutoring centres, Success Tutoring and Scholola stand out for their personalised learning approaches, small class sizes, and strong focus on student development. Both centres offer highly individualised support, making them the top choices for students aiming for academic success in a nurturing environment.

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Understanding Selective School Test Results and Competition

How Are Selective School Test Results Released?

Results are released via email and on the NSW Department of Education’s online portal. Outcome notifications will include:

  • Placement outcome: Offer, Reserve, or Unsuccessful.
  • Performance report: Comparison of student’s performance against others (within bands of top 10%, next 15%, etc.).

Offers are extended until all vacancies are filled, and students may be placed on reserve lists.

Understanding the Competition: Percentile Requirements

Admission to selective schools is competitive. Top selective schools (e.g., James Ruse Agricultural High School) often require students to be in the top 10% or higher, while for other selective schools, placement is possible in the next 15% band. The new percentile-based system ranks students based on their relative performance compared to their peers.

How Are Selective School Test Scores Calculated?

The test includes Reading, Mathematical Reasoning, Thinking Skills, and Writing. Student performance is compared with others, and scores are categorised into bands:

  • Top 10% of candidates
  • Next 15% of candidates
  • Next 25% of candidates
  • Lowest 50% of candidates

Students are not provided with raw test scores, but they can request a results enquiry for the Writing test. The percentile-based report helps families understand placement offers.

Sample Calculation of Final Percentiles

The final placement score is based on weighted scores from each section of the test:

  • Reading: 25% weight
  • Mathematical Reasoning: 25% weight
  • Thinking Skills: 35% weight
  • Writing: 15% weight

For example, if a student scores:

  • Reading: 90th percentile
  • Mathematics: 85th percentile
  • Thinking Skills: 80th percentile
  • Writing: 75th percentile

The weighted score can be calculated as follows:

  • Reading: 90 * 0.25 = 22.5
  • Mathematics: 85 * 0.25 = 21.25
  • Thinking Skills: 80 * 0.35 = 28
  • Writing: 75 * 0.15 = 11.25

The final score would be the sum of these weighted scores: 22.5 + 21.25 + 28 + 11.25 = 83. This score would then be compared to other candidates.


Disclaimer: This is a sample calculation and actual final percentiles depend on the strength of the cohort and test difficulty for that particular year.

Sample Percentile Report

Example of a percentile-based outcome report.

Reserve Lists and Additional Considerations

Students not receiving immediate offers may be placed on reserve lists. If a spot opens, students will be offered a place up until Term 1 of Year 7. Acceptance of a reserve place cancels any previous offers.

Conclusion

The Selective School Test and its outcome reports have evolved, with percentile ranks being key to understanding placement outcomes. By focusing on a student’s position within these performance bands, families can better assess their chances of securing a place in a selective school.

Watch: Selective School Test Outcome Information Video

Learn more about the Selective School Test, the application process, and how results are processed through this informative video provided by the NSW Department of Education.

Selective Weighted Percentile & School Entry Calculator

When using this calculator, take the minimal percentile of the band that you got for each section for a conservative output.
If you are confident that you performed better than the minimum, gradually increase it for better accuracy.

Enter Your Percentiles

Your Results

Final Weighted Percentile:

Prediction:

Based on top HSC results, some of the best Selective Schools include: James Ruse, Sydney Boys, Sydney Girls, North Sydney Girls, North Sydney Boys, Baulkham Hills High.

The next best Selective Schools include: Normanhurst Boys, Girraween, Hornsby Girls, Penrith High, Fort Street High, St George Girls, Sydney Technical High, Gosford High, Manly Selective Campus, Elizabeth Macarthur, St Ives, Merewether High, Auburn Girls, Strathfield Girls.

This calculator is for indicative purposes only. Reserves are not considered.

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