Selective test format: sections, minutes and the writing task
Checked 19 October 2026 by XReady
In short
The Selective test is computer-based with four equally weighted sections: Reading, Mathematical Reasoning, Thinking Skills and Writing. Testing time adds up to 155 minutes. Calculators are not allowed.
Much of the worry around this test fades once you know what is in it. Here is each section described in plain terms, based on the layout the NSW Department of Education publishes (external link).
The shape of the day
Children sit at computers supplied by the Department (external link), in a test centre close to their primary school, normally a public high school. All answers, including the writing task, are entered on the computer. Each student attends one test day only, and different days use different versions of the test (external link) so that no day is easier than another. A handful of questions repeat across versions so the results can be compared, and those do not count towards the child's scores.
| Section | Questions | Minutes | Type | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | 17 (3 have several parts) | 45 | Multiple choice | 25% |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 35 | 40 | Multiple choice | 25% |
| Thinking Skills | 40 | 40 | Multiple choice | 25% |
| Writing | 1 | 30 | Open response | 25% |
Reading
Students read a range of texts and answer questions on them. There is plenty of text to get through, so a steady pace helps more than rushing any single question.
Mathematical Reasoning
Thirty-five questions in 40 minutes, with working done on the paper provided. Questions come from the NSW curriculum to the end of Year 6 (external link) but focus on reasoning through problems, not recalling procedures. No calculator is allowed.
Thinking Skills
Forty questions in 40 minutes. These ask students to reason with unfamiliar information. The Department states the test does not need any special or extra knowledge (external link), and that questions are reviewed so students do not need to learn anything beyond the curriculum.
Writing
One typed response in 30 minutes. Students can plan on paper before they start. Practise typing a little, so that keyboard comfort is not what slows your child down. XType (external link), a typing trainer by XTutio, is one way to do that.
Equal weighting
With a quarter each, a strong piece of writing counts for as much as a strong reading or maths result. The Opportunity Class test is different: it has three sections and no writing task. See the OC test format.
What students can use
Working out is done on two A4 sheets handed to each child, with extra sheets on request. Calculators, dictionaries, books, note paper, phones and smart watches are not permitted (external link). The test day checklist lists everything to pack.
Practice
The Department offers free online computer-based practice tests that copy the real software and timer. It also hosts older PDF practice papers (external link), and says these come from earlier paper-based versions that do not reflect the current format. For the current experience, use the online tests, and read preparing without coaching. The XReady sample papers are Selective practice, written separately, and are never a copy of the real test.
Checked 19 October 2026 against the NSW Department of Education pages above.
Common questions
- Is the Selective test on a computer?
- Yes. Students use computers provided by the Department at a local test centre. They do not bring their own computer or mouse.
- How long is the Selective test?
- The four sections run 45, 40, 40 and 30 minutes, which is 155 minutes of testing, with short breaks between sections and a longer break in the middle.
- Is there a writing task?
- Yes, one open-response writing question in 30 minutes. The OC test has no writing section.
- Can students use a calculator?
- No. Calculators, dictionaries, books and note paper are not allowed. Working out goes on two A4 sheets given to each student, and extra sheets are available on request.
- How is each section weighted?
- Each of the four sections counts for 25 per cent.
Keep reading
- The NSW Selective High School Placement Test: a parent's guideWhat the NSW Selective test is, who sits it in Year 6, what it decides, how many Year 7 places exist for 2027 entry, and what to do first.
- OC and Selective test day checklist for parentsWhat to bring, what to leave at home, when to arrive and what to do if your child is sick on the day of the OC or Selective placement test.
- Preparing for the OC and Selective tests without coachingA calm, low-pressure way for NSW families to help a child get ready for the OC or Selective test, using the Department's free resources.
Sources, checked 19 October 2026
- NSW Department of Education: Selective high school practice tests (external link) NSW Department of Education. Checked 19 October 2026.
- NSW Department of Education: Placement test (external link) NSW Department of Education. Checked 19 October 2026.
Not affiliated with ACARA or the NSW Department of Education.