NSW Selective test 2027: format and dates for Year 7 entry in 2028
The Selective High School Placement Test on 13–14 May 2027: its four sections, timing, writing task and key dates for 2028 entry.
Updated 8 November 2026
The Selective High School Placement Test is sat in Year 6 for a place starting in Year 7. For 2028 entry, the test is on 13 and 14 May 2027 (one day per student). Applications close on 15 February 2027.
The four sections
| Section | Questions | Time | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | 17 questions (3 have several parts), 38 answers in total | 45 minutes | 25% |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 35 questions, 5 options each | 40 minutes | 25% |
| Thinking Skills | 40 questions, 4 options each | 40 minutes | 25% |
| Writing | 1 task, typed | 30 minutes | 25% |
The test is computer-based. Calculators and dictionaries are not allowed; paper is allowed for working out.
The writing task
Students respond to one topic in 30 minutes and type their answer. They are marked on the creativity of their ideas and how well they write for a purpose and audience, including structure, grammar, punctuation, style and vocabulary. A response that does not address the topic receives a lower mark. Students may plan on paper or on screen first.
How offers are made
You can list 1 to 3 selective high schools. As with opportunity classes, offers are based on test performance and the order of your choices. Outcomes for 2028 entry are released in August 2027.
How it compares with the OC test
- Longer: four sections instead of three, including writing.
- Harder content: Mathematical Reasoning uses concepts up to Year 6.
- More Thinking Skills questions: 40 instead of 30.
Our first full Selective mock test is coming soon. Meanwhile, the Thinking Skills and Maths practice sets build the same reasoning skills.
Sources
- education.nsw.gov.au/schooling/parents-and-carers/choosing-a-school-setting/selective-high-schools/placement-test/selective-high-school-practice-tests
- education.nsw.gov.au/schooling/parents-and-carers/choosing-a-school-setting/selective-high-schools/application-process
- education.nsw.gov.au/schooling/parents-and-carers/choosing-a-school-setting/selective-high-schools/choosing-a-school
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