Selective Test Week — What to Bring and How to Prepare

1. The week before

The week before the selective test is not the time to discover a new strategy or overhaul every weak area. Keep practice light and familiar.

• Review a few common mistake patterns.
• Do short reading, maths and thinking skills warm-ups.
• Practise one light writing plan or short response, not a heavy writing marathon.
• Confirm test centre, travel plan and admission ticket details.
• Prioritise sleep and normal routines.

2. The night before

• Pack required items according to the official instructions.
• Prepare clothes, transport and snacks if allowed under the official guidance.
• Avoid late-night practice.
• Use a calm bedtime routine.
• Keep encouragement simple: your child does not need a motivational speech.

3. Test morning

For the 2026 placement tests, the Department lists arrival for the selective high school test as 9:30 am and expected pick-up as 1:55 pm. Always check the Test Admission Ticket and official updates for your child’s allocated details.

• Leave enough travel buffer.
• Keep breakfast familiar.
• Do not introduce new strategy advice in the car.
• Remind your child to read instructions carefully and use working paper for planning and maths.

4. During the test

Students take the tests one after another on a computer. The test includes Reading, Mathematical Reasoning, Thinking Skills and Writing.

• For Reading: slow down enough to use evidence from the text.
• For Maths: write working clearly on paper and move on if stuck.
• For Thinking Skills: eliminate weak options and avoid overthinking one item.
• For Writing: spend a few minutes planning before drafting.

5. If something goes wrong

If your child is ill or something serious disrupts test attendance or performance, follow the NSW Department of Education illness or misadventure process. The dates and deadlines are strict, so check the official instructions immediately rather than waiting.

If the issue is emotional rather than procedural, keep the conversation calm. The test is important, but it should not become the measure of your child’s worth or future.

• Should my child practise the night before?

  No heavy practice. A few light review questions are fine if they feel calming, but sleep and confidence matter more.
• What time should we arrive?

  For 2026, the Department lists selective arrival as 9:30 am and expected pick-up as 1:55 pm. Always check your child’s Test Admission Ticket.
• Can students use a calculator or dictionary?

  No. The Department says students cannot use a calculator or dictionary, but they can use paper for working out and planning.
• Should we do a full simulation in the final week?

  Usually no. Full simulations are tiring. The final week is better for light review, logistics and rest.
• What if my child is sick?

  Check the official illness or misadventure process immediately and submit any required request by the relevant deadline.

Sources & acknowledgements

• NSW Department of Education — Placement test dates and logistics: education.nsw.gov.au/.../placement-test
• NSW Department of Education — Selective high school practice tests and test structure: education.nsw.gov.au/.../selective-high-school-practice-tests