Gifted students in NSW have the option of applying for selective schools commencing with Year 7. The process is deadline-driven and highly competitive due to limited placement opportunities. Launching the application process at least one year in advance of the intended start date is advised. This article includes key dates and exam tips as a helpful reference. An overview of the process — from application to outcome — is also provided as a guide.

What Is Selective High School?

Selective high schools cater to gifted students from all socioeconomic backgrounds with targeted talent development and advanced learning opportunities. Gifted students are those whose potential significantly exceed that of their peers in one or more sphere of education. Forty-six schools in NSW offer selective placements for eligible students — 25 partially selective high schools and 21 fully selective high schools.

Students are held to high expectations in selective high school programmes. The curriculum includes effective, explicit, evidence-based teaching that engages students and challenges them to become better learners. Exposure to creative, intellectual, physical, and social-emotional education spheres is a vital part of the programming offered by selective high schools.

How to Apply for Selective School

Parents and legal guardians of students who are enrolled in NSW government and non-government primary schools, home schools, interstate, and overseas schools must begin the application process in Term 4 of Year 5 studies. The application process is completed online and includes 14 specific steps.

Each year, the NSW government announces the opening of the application process on its website. The first — and most crucial — step in the process is to register to receive password-protected access to the online application form. Students are not permitted to register for accounts. If an attempted student registration is suspected, email communication is disabled, and correspondence is sent via mail to prevent unsupported student applications.

Confirmation emails follow successful application submissions. The email includes a copy of the completed application and a student application number that must appear on all future communications. Report any mistakes in the application to the High Performing Students Team immediately.

How to Prepare for the Selective School Exam

Eligible students must sit for the Selective High School Placement Examination. It consists of a 20-minute writing test and a 40-minute multiple-choice test in the following subjects:

• Reading – 45 questions

• Mathematics – 40 questions

• General ability – 60 questions

The 20-minute writing test provides students with a stimulus image, statement, heading, or question and requires a written response. It evaluates the effective use of language, organisation, creativity, and critical thinking.

Following these tips will ensure a successful experience for test-takers:

• Read all test questions carefully. Think carefully before responding.

• Use the time wisely. Mark the best answers to questions you are unsure of and then move on to the next one. You can always come back to difficult questions later if there is time.

• Keep your eyes on your test booklet at all times. Students suspected of cheating risk disqualification from the application process.

Final Thoughts

Outcome letters are mailed each year in July, followed by emails instructing parents of their child’s calculated placement score. Further information is provided that breaks down the raw school assessment scores and test marks.

It is important to check the NSW Education website regularly throughout the process to ensure all steps are followed.