NSW Selective School Placement Test: A Parent's Guide

What the Selective School placement test involves

The NSW Selective School placement test is a statewide assessment taken by Year 6 students who are applying for Year 7 entry to a selective high school. Selective high schools are government schools that offer academically selective entry, and placement is determined through an application and testing process. The test is usually held in May each year, and families apply online through the NSW Department of Education.

On test day, Year 6 students complete four sections: Mathematical Reasoning, Thinking Skills, Reading, and Writing, all in one sitting. Because the Selective test builds on the same reasoning and comprehension skills tested in the Opportunity Class (OC) test, families who prepare steadily from Years 2–6 are well placed for both assessments.

The process, step by step

1. Check eligibility and research schools. Start about 18 months before the test by reading through the NSW Department of Education list of selective high schools, noting each school's location, entry score, and any special programs. Talk to your child's class teacher about whether an academically selective environment would suit your child, and attend open days if you can.
2. Submit the online application. Families apply online through the NSW Department of Education portal. The application period typically opens in November and closes in early December for the test held the following May. You will need your child's personal details and current school information, and you will list preferred schools in order. Keep the confirmation email, because offers are also managed through the same portal.
3. Plan preparation 12-24 months ahead. Preparation commonly starts 12-24 months before the test. In the first phase, build solid foundations in mathematical reasoning, thinking skills, reading, and writing through regular short sessions. From about four to six months before the test, introduce timed practice so your child becomes comfortable with pacing, and schedule one full practice test each month under conditions similar to the real day.
4. Sit the test in May. The test is usually held in May at a designated test centre. On the day, Year 6 students complete four sections: Mathematical Reasoning, Thinking Skills, Reading, and Writing, all in one sitting. Ensure your child sleeps well the night before, eats a proper breakfast, and arrives early. Remind them that the test includes challenging questions and that it is normal to find some items difficult.
5. Receive the outcome and decide on the offer. Placement offers are usually released in July, with notifications sent by email and viewable in the online portal. If your child receives an offer, accept or decline it before the stated deadline. If no offer is made, your child may be placed on a reserve list, and families can request a review if they believe an administrative error has occurred.

Example question

Answer and reasoning

The correct option is A) Amara scored above 80. The statement sets a rule that applies to every student who completed the practice test, and the second sentence confirms that Amara completed it. Because Amara belongs to that group, the rule applies to her, so she must have scored above 80. Option B contradicts the rule by suggesting a score below 80, and option D contradicts it by suggesting a score of exactly 80. Option C introduces a claim about preparation that is not supported by the information given.