Your guide to mastering the Selective Schools test and securing a spot in a top school.
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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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 PlatformsTake a look out our detailed breakdown of tutoring centres before making the important decision of who to continue with.
See Detailed Comparison of Tutoring CentresMastering 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 | WhatsApp, Messenger, Email | |
Consultations | Video calls for educational advice | No | No | No | No |
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.
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 |
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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Get Started →Results are released via email and on the NSW Department of Education’s online portal. Outcome notifications will include:
Offers are extended until all vacancies are filled, and students may be placed on reserve lists.
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.
The test includes Reading, Mathematical Reasoning, Thinking Skills, and Writing. Student performance is compared with others, and scores are categorised into bands:
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.
The final placement score is based on weighted scores from each section of the test:
For example, if a student scores:
The weighted score can be calculated as follows:
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.
Example of a percentile-based outcome report.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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