The NSW Selective School Test is a crucial milestone for many students aspiring to gain entry into selective high schools in New South Wales. In 2023, over 14,000 students sat for the NSW Selective High School Placement Test, competing for approximately 4,200 places across the state’s selective schools.
The competition is intense, and staying informed about key dates is vital for a successful application. This blog outlines the essential dates for the NSW Selective School Test 2025 and offers insights into future application cycles.
Ensure your child excels at a top selective school by exploring our Selective Schools Tutoring programs, tailored for academic success.
NSW Selective School Test 2025
The NSW Selective High School Test Dates for 2025 are crucial for Year 6 students aiming to secure a place in one of New South Wales’ selective high schools. Knowing these dates in advance allows families to plan their preparation effectively, ensuring students are ready to perform their best on the test day.
Below, we outline the key dates you need to mark on your calendar to stay on track.
NSW Selective High School Test Dates 2025
The NSW Selective High School Placement Test for entry in 2025 is scheduled to occur over three days, from Friday, 2 May to Sunday, 4 May 2025. This testing period is a pivotal time for Year 6 students aspiring to secure a place in one of New South Wales’ selective high schools.
The test, which evaluates students’ academic abilities in key areas such as reading, writing, mathematics, and general ability, will be conducted online as a computer-based assessment.
For students who are unable to attend the main test dates, a make-up test is available on Monday, 19 May 2025, providing an additional opportunity to participate in this important exam.
| YEAR | MAIN TEST PERIOD | MAKE-UP TEST |
| 2025 | Friday 2 May to Sunday 4 May 2025 | Monday 19 May 2025 |
Computer-Based Tests in 2025
Since 2021, NSW has embraced a computer-based format for the Selective High School Placement Test, and this will continue in 2025, bringing several key advantages.
The placement tests in 2025 will be conducted over three days at designated external test centres rather than in schools. Students will be assigned a local test centre based on their current school’s area. The computer-based format offers several benefits:
- Improved Security and Fairness: By automating the administration and scoring of the tests, computer-based testing minimises the risks of cheating and reduces human error. This helps ensure that all students are assessed under consistent and secure conditions.
- Diverse Question Types and Flexibility: The format supports various question types and interactive elements, providing a more detailed assessment of students’ abilities. Multiple versions of the test will be used over the testing period, enhancing the flexibility of the process.
- No Need for Personal Devices: Students won’t need to bring their own devices; all necessary technology will be provided at the test centres, ensuring a uniform experience for every participant.
The test structure remains consistent, with the Selective High School Placement Test featuring four sections (Reading, Mathematical Reasoning, Thinking Skills, and Writing) and the Opportunity Class Placement Test including three sections (Reading, Mathematical Reasoning, and Thinking Skills).
To help students prepare, computer-based practice tests and other resources will be available. The tests will be managed by Janison Solutions, in partnership with Cambridge University Press & Assessment for design and marking, ensuring a high standard and reliability for the testing process.
For a comprehensive guide on the NSW Selective Schools Test, visit Dr. Study’s NSW Selective Schools Test Guide.
Applications for the NSW Selective High School Test in 2026
For those planning to apply for selective high schools or opportunity classes in 2026, it’s essential to keep track of the key dates and changes in the application process. Here’s what you need to know:
- Applications: Applications for selective high school and opportunity class entry in 2026 will be open from 7 November 2024 to 21 February 2025. The application process will continue to be conducted online through the Selective High School and Opportunity Class Placement website.
Given the extended application period and the proximity of the closing date to the test dates, late applications will not be accepted. This adjustment is due to logistical constraints associated with organising test centres and providing necessary devices.
- Important Changes for 2026: For opportunity class placements, parents and carers will need to apply when their child is in Year 3, or by the end of Week 4 in Term 1 of Year 4.
This change affects students currently in Year 3. For selective high school placements, applications can be submitted when the child is in Year 5 or until the end of Week 4 in Term 1 of Year 6.
- Results and Commencement: Placement outcomes and offers will be released to parents and carers in Term 3, 2025. Students who gain entry will start attending their designated opportunity class or selective high school in Term 1, 2026.
Is your child preparing for NSW Selective Schools test? Let us help.
Key Dates – Applying for Entry in 2026
To ensure a smooth application process for selective high schools and opportunity classes in 2026, it’s important to be aware of the key dates and changes to the application timeline. This section provides a concise overview of the critical deadlines and milestones, helping you stay organised and on track for a successful application.
| YEAR | PERIOD | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 7 November 2024 to 21 February | Parents and carers can apply for entry into selective high schools or opportunity classes for 2026. |
| 2 to 4 May | Students will take the placement test for selective high schools or opportunity classes to gain entry in 2026. | |
| 19 May | Make-up test date for approved illness or misadventure requests. | |
| Term 3 (Tuesday 22 July) | Placement outcomes and offers will be issued to parents and carers. | |
| 2026 | Term 1 (Tuesday 27 January) | Students who are accepted will start attending their opportunity class or selective high school. |
Future NSW Selective School Test Dates
Looking ahead, it’s important to stay informed about future NSW Selective School Test dates to ensure timely preparation and application. This section will provide an overview of anticipated test schedules and any changes that may impact the planning process for upcoming years.
| YEAR | MAIN TEST PERIOD | MAKE-UP TEST |
| 2025 | Friday 2 May to Sunday 4 May | Monday 19 May |
| 2026 | Friday 1 May to Sunday 3 May | Friday 15 May |
| 2027 | Friday 30 April to Sunday 2 May 2027 | Friday 14 May |
| 2028 | Friday 5 May to Sunday 7 May | Friday 19 May |
How Dr. Study Can Help Your Child Get Into Selective Schools?
At Dr. Study Tutoring, we recognise that preparing for the 2025 Selective School Test is a significant challenge, given the competitive nature of these exams. Our specialised services are tailored to help your child excel and approach their selective school assessments with confidence and skill.
Here’s how we can support your child’s success:
- Customised Practice Sessions: Our experienced tutors provide one-on-four support, using targeted practice tests and past papers to familiarise your child with the test format and question types they’ll encounter.
- Personalised Learning Plans: Each student receives a tailored learning plan that addresses their unique needs and areas for improvement, building the skills and confidence required to perform well in the selective school exams.
- Flexible Scheduling: We offer flexible scheduling to fit your family’s routine, ensuring your child can prepare effectively without disrupting their other activities.
- Comprehensive Support: Our tutoring covers all key components of the selective school exams, providing a thorough review to ensure your child is well-prepared and capable of tackling the test effectively.
- Interactive Environment: We use engaging and interactive methods to keep your child motivated and make test preparation a positive experience, helping them stay focused and confident.
By choosing Dr. Study Tutoring, you’re ensuring that your child is not only prepared for the 2025 Selective School Test but also equipped with the skills and confidence needed for ongoing academic success.
To learn more about top selective schools in NSW and how to navigate the application process, visit our Top Selective Schools in NSW guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let’s go over some frequently asked questions by parents on NSW Selective High School Test Dates for the year 2025:
1: What is the NSW Selective High School Placement Test?
The NSW Selective High School Placement Test is an exam used to determine placement in selective high schools across New South Wales. The test assesses students’ abilities in areas such as reading, mathematics, and general ability.
2: When are the results for the NSW Selective School Test 2025 released?
Results for the NSW Selective School Test 2025 are typically released in early July 2025. These results determine if a student has secured a place in one of the selective high schools.
3: How can I best prepare my child for the NSW Selective School Test?
Preparation is key to success in the NSW Selective School Test. Consider enrolling your child in a specialised tutoring program, such as those offered by Dr. Study Tutoring, which provides targeted practice and expert guidance in all test areas.
Conclusion
Staying informed about the key dates and requirements for the NSW Selective School Test is crucial for parents and students aiming for selective school placement. The competition is fierce, but with careful planning and the right support, your child can achieve their goals.
Ensure your child is ready for the future Selective School Tests by starting their preparation early. Secure their spot in a top selective school!
Book a free online assessment with Dr. Study Tutoring today, and let us help pave the way for your child’s academic success and future achievements.
