RF Tutoring

Selective School Testing

Selective School Preparation Made Easy

Give your child the competitive edge they need to succeed on selective school entrance exams. RF Tutoring provides expert, state-specific selective test preparation for NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, SA and ACT.

What Are Selective Schools

Selective schools are both public and private high schools that accept students based on academic merit, with entry depending on a highly competitive selective placement test. Each Australian state runs its own exam with different formats and year levels, but all of them assess something beyond regular school learning: a student’s academic potential.

Because these exams focus on advanced reasoning, reading, problem-solving, and writing, not the school curriculum, many families turn to selective school tutoring to help their children prepare confidently and effectively. Specialised tutoring services, whether through online tutoring or in-home support, provide targeted guidance and structured practice aligned with each state’s test style. Students also benefit from selective school practice tests, which build familiarity, reduce exam anxiety, and strengthen exam-specific skills essential for success.

Why Choose RF Tutoring for Selective School Prep?

Families across Australia trust RF Tutoring because we deliver results. Our selective school tutoring programs offer:

State-specific selective school preparation tailored to NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, SA & ACT test formats
Expert coaching for ACER and Edutest test structures
Writing programs with personalised feedback
Advanced reasoning skills training
Selective school practice tests and full mock exams that simulate real test conditions
Exam-day strategies to boost confidence and performance
High-achieving tutors who understand selective entry expectations

Through our tutoring services, including online tutoring and in-home support, we ensure every student is supported, challenged, and fully prepared for success.

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State-by-State Selective Test Breakdown

New South Wales (NSW)

The NSW selective test is held in March, with students applying in Year 5. It includes reading, mathematical reasoning, thinking skills, and writing. NSW also offers the OC (Opportunity Class) exam for academically advanced students in primary school. As the largest and most competitive selective school system in Australia, with thousands of applicants each year, strong preparation is essential.

Victoria (VIC)

For Year 9 entry, where students apply in Year 8, selective schools such as Melbourne High, Mac. Robertson Girls’, Nossal, and Suzanne Cory use the SEAL exam, which includes verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, reading comprehension, mathematics, and creative, persuasive, or analytical writing. This test is highly reasoning-focused, and writing often becomes the biggest challenge for many students.

Queensland (QLD)

Queensland does not run a single statewide selective exam; instead, schools such as Brisbane State High School and the Queensland Academies use their own individual tests. Although formats vary, common themes include Mathematical Reasoning, Logical and Abstract Reasoning, Reading and Writing, and Science Reasoning for QA programs. This makes customised preparation essential, as parents need tailored support that aligns with each school’s specific requirements.

Western Australia (WA) GATE Program

For Year 7 selective entry, the ACER-administered tests, including the ACER Selective Schools Test and the GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) assessment, evaluate Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning, and Written Expression. These tests are essential for students aiming for academic extension programs, where strong ACER-style reasoning and problem-solving skills are crucial for success.

South Australia (SA) Ignite Program

For Year 8 entry, the ACER test, used for programs like the Ignite Programme, assesses reading, mathematics, abstract reasoning, and writing skills. While it caters to a more selective group, it remains highly sought after by high-performing families because of its rigorous evaluation of students’ academic potential.

ACT Selective & High-Performing Programs

The test format can vary each year, with students assessed through Edutest, internal school assessments, or the ACT Selective Entry Testing (ASET). Despite these differences, common elements, verbal and numerical reasoning, reading, and writing, remain consistent. Because formats can change frequently, many parents feel uncertain, making clear guidance, structured preparation, and familiarity with ASET and other test styles essential for student success.

What the Tests Assess (Across All States)

Although test formats differ, all selective exams assess the same core abilities:

Reading Comprehension
Mathematical & Numerical Reasoning
Logical / Abstract Reasoning
Problem-Solving Skills
Creative / Persuasive / Analytical Writing

These are skills-based, not tied to the school curriculum, making targeted tutoring crucial.

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The Selective Entry Process Explained

A simple step-by-step journey:

1. Learn About the Selective Pathway

Parents explore selective school options in their state and understand the test format, year level of entry, and key dates. RF Tutoring helps families navigate what each exam involves.

2. Apply for the Selective Test

Families complete the official online application, nominate preferred schools, and submit any required documents before the deadline.

3. Begin Targeted Preparation

Preparation starts early with diagnostic testing to identify strengths and weaknesses. RF Tutoring creates a personalised learning plan covering reasoning, reading, writing, and maths skills.

4. Weekly Tutoring & Practice

Students attend regular sessions (online or in-home) to build skills step-by-step. They complete practice questions, timed exercises, and exam-style tasks to grow confidence and accuracy.

5. Mock Exams & Final Revision

Closer to the test, students sit full-length mock exams to simulate real conditions. This helps refine timing and strategy and stamina. Final revision focuses on polishing weaker areas.

6. Sit the Test & Receive Results

Students complete the official Selective School Test. Results and placement offers are released weeks later. RF Tutoring supports families in understanding results and next steps.

Give your child the best chance of securing a selective school place.

Our expert tutors, proven programs and state-specific resources make the preparation process simple and successful.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should my child start preparing?

Most students begin 6–18 months before the test. The earlier the better!

2. Are all tests the same across Australia?

No, each state has its own format, provider and requirements.

3. Do you teach ACER and Edutest formats?

Yes, our programs are aligned with ACER and Edutest.