How to use the official OC and Selective practice tests
What the NSW Department of Education's free practice tests include, how they differ from the real test, and how to combine them with other practice.
Updated 8 November 2026
The NSW Department of Education publishes free practice material for both the OC and Selective tests. Every family should use it.
What is available
- Online computer-based practice tests that use the real test software and tools. They are timed (the timer can be hidden) and show right and wrong answers at the end.
- PDF practice tests with answers and explanations. The department notes that these come from the older paper-based tests, so they do not reflect the current computer-based format exactly.
How to use them well
- Use the online practice tests to get used to the screen layout, navigation and timer.
- Keep at least one online test for later, close to the real test, as a final check.
- Use the PDFs for question practice, remembering that the current format may differ.
- Review every mistake. One reviewed test teaches more than three unreviewed ones.
Why use other practice as well?
The official material is limited in quantity. Our free mock tests and practice sets give extra original questions in the current format, with an explanation of every wrong option and a skill-by-skill report.
Smart Selective is independent and is not affiliated with the NSW Department of Education. Our questions are original and are not copies of official tests.
Sources
- education.nsw.gov.au/schooling/parents-and-carers/choosing-a-school-setting/selective-high-schools/placement-test/opportunity-class-practice-tests
- education.nsw.gov.au/schooling/parents-and-carers/choosing-a-school-setting/selective-high-schools/placement-test/selective-high-school-practice-tests
Smart Selective is independent and not affiliated with the NSW Department of Education. Found something out of date? Tell us.