ASET & WA GATE Frequently Asked Questions

GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) in Western Australia provides specialized educational programs for academically gifted students across government secondary schools. WA offers diverse GATE programs including:

• 1Academic programs for high-achieving students,
• 2Arts programs (Drama, Music, Visual Arts, Media Arts, Dance),
• 3Languages programs for linguistically talented students. Entry to all GATE programs requires the ASET test (except arts programs which may have performance-based entry). GATE programs provide accelerated curriculum, enrichment activities, and learning with intellectual peers.

ASET differs significantly from NAPLAN and selective tests in other states:

• 1Purpose - ASET identifies gifted potential and reasoning abilities; NAPLAN measures curriculum achievement.
• 2Design - ASET is specifically designed by ACER for WA GATE selection with fixed four-component structure.
• 3Difficulty - ASET is substantially more challenging than NAPLAN, requiring higher-order thinking.
• 4Comparison to NSW Selective - Both test reasoning but ASET has unique 25-minute writing and 20-minute abstract sections.
• 5Comparison to HAST - Both are ACER tests focusing on reasoning, but ASET is WA-specific statewide assessment while HAST is used by individual schools nationally. ASET preparation requires specialized approaches beyond standard school work or NAPLAN prep.

ASET is primarily for Year 6 students applying for Year 7 GATE entry (main intake). Late entry opportunities also exist for:

• 1Year 7 students applying for Year 9 GATE entry,
• 2Year 8 students applying for Year 10 entry,
• 3Year 9 students applying for Year 11 entry (limited places). Most GATE places are allocated to Year 7 main intake, with significantly fewer spots available for late entry. Perth Modern School offers limited late entry places for Years 9, 10, and 11. Students currently enrolled in GATE programs may also sit ASET to transfer to different GATE programs or Perth Modern.

ASET application process:

• 1Online Application - Complete application through gtonline.wa.edu.au during application period.
• 2Required Documents - Upload school reports (most recent semester), NAPLAN results (Year 3 and 5), birth certificate details, recent photograph, Student ID form.
• 3Program Selection - Indicate GATE program preferences (academic/arts/languages) and school preferences in order of priority.
• 4Special Requirements - Apply for adjusted testing conditions if needed, with supporting documentation.
• 5Confirmation - Receive confirmation email with testing venue and date. Perth Modern School can be listed as first preference if aiming for highest competitive standard. No application fee is required.

Required ASET application documents:

• 1School Reports - Most recent semester reports showing academic performance.
• 2NAPLAN Results - Year 3 and Year 5 NAPLAN results demonstrating academic achievement.
• 3Birth Certificate - Details for identification and age verification.
• 4Recent Photograph - Passport-style photo for Student ID form.
• 5Student ID Form - Completed form with photo for test day identification.
• 6Adjusted Testing Documentation (if applicable) - Medical reports, psychologist assessments, or specialist letters supporting adjustment requests.
• 7International Students - Additional visa documentation if applicable. All documents must be uploaded during online application. Incomplete applications may not be processed.

Yes, you can apply to multiple GATE programs in one ASET application. When applying, you rank your program preferences in order:

• 1List program type (academic, arts, languages),
• 2Rank schools offering your preferred programs,
• 3Perth Modern can be listed as first preference for academic programs. If you achieve TSS above Perth Modern threshold (247+), you will receive offer regardless of lower preferences listed. If TSS meets GATE general threshold (210+) but not Perth Modern, you may receive offer from other listed schools based on availability and your preference order. Strategic preference ordering is important. You sit ONE ASET test but can be considered for multiple programs based on your scores and preferences.

International students can apply for Perth Modern School and GATE programs but must meet specific requirements:

• 1Visa Status - Must hold appropriate student visa or be Australian permanent resident.
• 2Application Process - Complete standard ASET application with additional visa documentation.
• 3Testing Access - International students in WA at time of testing can sit ASET at designated venues.
• 4School Fees - International students pay international student fees (significantly higher than domestic fees).
• 5Limited Places - Competition is intense and places are limited. Perth Modern School accepts international students who meet TSS threshold and visa requirements. Check WA Department of Education international student programs for current policies and fee structures.

If you miss the ASET application deadline (typically mid-February), late applications are generally NOT accepted as testing occurs shortly after in March. Options if deadline missed:

• 1Wait for Next Year - Reapply in the following year's application cycle for next intake.
• 2Late Entry - Consider applying for late entry GATE programs (Years 9, 10, 11) in subsequent years.
• 3Exceptional Circumstances - Contact WA Department of Education GATE office immediately if genuine exceptional circumstances (family emergency, recent arrival in WA). No guarantees of late acceptance. Plan ahead: set calendar reminders for October application opening. Missing the deadline means waiting a full year for next opportunity, making timely application critical.

ASET Reading Comprehension (35 minutes, 35 multiple-choice questions) assesses advanced reading skills beyond basic literacy:

• 1Text Types - Fiction, non-fiction, poetry, drama, information graphics (charts, graphs, diagrams).
• 2Skills Tested - Higher-order comprehension, inference and interpretation, comparison and evaluation, understanding author's purpose, analyzing text structure, vocabulary in context.
• 3Question Format - Multiple-choice with 4 options.
• 4No Negative Marking - Only correct answers score; wrong answers don't deduct points.
• 5Challenge - Texts are deliberately complex and sophisticated, requiring close reading and analytical thinking. All information needed is provided in stimulus materials. Success requires strong vocabulary, quick analytical reading, and careful time management.

ASET Communicating Ideas in Writing (25 minutes total including planning and editing):

• 1Format - One writing task responding to visual prompt (image) or statement prompt.
• 2Time Allocation - 25 minutes total (recommended: 5 minutes planning, 15 minutes writing, 5 minutes editing).
• 3Assessment Criteria - Two independent markers assess using three criteria: Thought & Content (ideas, originality, relevance), Structure & Organisation (coherent structure, logical flow), Expression & Style (vocabulary, sentence variety, tone).
• 4Marking Standards - Markers use standardized rubrics with moderation to ensure consistency.
• 5Results Checks - Free results checks available if marking concerns arise. Writing quality significantly impacts TSS, making practice with timed responses essential.

ASET Quantitative Reasoning (35 minutes, 35 multiple-choice questions) tests mathematical thinking and reasoning rather than curriculum recall:

• 1Skills Focus - Pattern recognition, data interpretation, problem-solving, logical reasoning, extracting information from graphs and tables.
• 2Content Areas - Number patterns and relationships, measurement and geometry concepts, statistical reasoning, algebraic thinking.
• 3Calculator Policy - NO calculators permitted; all questions solvable mentally or with written working.
• 4Question Style - Non-routine problems requiring reasoning and strategy beyond standard algorithms.
• 5Time Pressure - 60 seconds per question average requires quick thinking and efficient problem-solving. Success requires strong number sense, flexible thinking strategies, and practice with reasoning-based mathematics beyond school curriculum.

ASET Abstract Reasoning (20 minutes, 35 questions) is considered most challenging due to:

• 1Extreme Time Pressure - Only 34 seconds per question, fastest pace of all ASET sections.
• 2Unfamiliar Content - Visual pattern recognition and rule detection not taught explicitly in school curriculum.
• 3Non-Verbal Reasoning - Tests pure reasoning ability independent of reading or mathematics.
• 4Question Types - Pattern completion, series identification, analogies, odd-one-out, matrix reasoning.
• 5Mental Stamina - Requires intense concentration at end of 2+ hour test.
• 6Strategy Development - Success requires systematic approaches learned through practice. Abstract Reasoning often shows greatest improvement with specialized preparation, making it critical preparation focus.

Calculators are NOT permitted in ASET Quantitative Reasoning because:

• 1Reasoning Focus - ASET assesses mathematical reasoning and thinking processes, not computational skills.
• 2Gifted Identification - Calculator use can mask reasoning weaknesses; mental math reveals true mathematical thinking.
• 3Number Sense - Questions designed to test pattern recognition, estimation, and conceptual understanding solvable without calculators.
• 4Fairness - Ensures all students compete on equal basis regardless of calculator sophistication or familiarity.
• 5Test Design - Questions deliberately constructed to be mentally solvable or use simple calculations. To prepare: develop strong mental arithmetic, practice estimation strategies, learn efficient calculation methods, build number sense through regular practice. This policy aligns with ASET's purpose of identifying reasoning potential.

ASET testing schedule includes ONE short break (approximately 5-10 minutes) between the Writing section and Quantitative Reasoning section. Test order:

• 1Reading Comprehension (35 minutes),
• 2Communicating Ideas in Writing (25 minutes), SHORT BREAK,
• 3Quantitative Reasoning (35 minutes),
• 4Abstract Reasoning (20 minutes). Total testing time is approximately 2 hours 45 minutes including break. During the break, students can: use bathroom, have snack, drink water, stretch and move. Cannot: access phones, study materials, talk about test content, leave testing area. The break provides mental rest before the challenging mathematics and abstract reasoning sections. Bring snacks and water for this break.

ASET is a PAPER-BASED test, NOT computer-based:

• 1Test Booklets - Students receive printed test booklets with questions and stimulus materials.
• 2Answer Sheets - Multiple-choice answers recorded on separate bubble sheet using HB/B pencil.
• 3Writing - Writing responses completed in provided answer booklet with pen or pencil.
• 4No Digital Devices - No computers, tablets, or digital devices used during test.
• 5Preparation Implications - Practice should use paper-based formats, develop strong handwriting for Writing section, practice accurate bubble-sheet completion under time pressure. Unlike some other selective tests that have moved online, ASET maintains traditional paper format, requiring different preparation approaches than computer-based assessments.

Recommended ASET preparation timeline:

• 1Optimal Timeline - Start 12-18 months before testing (Year 5 for Year 7 entry). Allows comprehensive skill development across all four components, multiple practice test cycles, identification and improvement of weaknesses.
• 2Minimum Effective - 6-9 months intensive preparation (mid-Year 5). Requires focused daily practice and structured program.
• 3Short Timeline (3-6 months) - Possible for naturally high-ability students but stressful and challenging.
• 4Perth Modern Specific - Given 247+ TSS requirement, earlier preparation (18+ months) provides competitive advantage. Early start reduces pressure, builds confidence, allows time for comprehensive improvement rather than cramming. Begin with skills assessment, then systematic development of Reading, Writing, Quantitative, and Abstract reasoning.

ASET preparation costs vary by approach:

• 1Self-Study - $50-200 (official sample tests, workbooks). Limited effectiveness without expert guidance.
• 2Online Programs - BrainTree comprehensive packages $497-$997 annually (unlimited practice tests, expert coaching, performance analytics, writing feedback, ACER-format materials).
• 3Traditional Face-to-Face Tutoring - $80-150 per hour, typically 1-2 hours weekly = $4,800-$12,000 annually.
• 4Group Classes - $50-100 per session. Cost-effective strategy: comprehensive online program as foundation with targeted tutoring for specific weak areas. ASET preparation is investment in accessing WA's premier educational opportunities. Perth Modern provides free world-class education saving $100,000+ compared to private school alternatives. Professional preparation significantly improves placement chances.

BrainTree offers WA's most comprehensive ASET preparation with 95% GATE success rate and 75+ Perth Modern placements:

• 1Exact ACER Format - Practice tests replicate actual ASET structure, timing, and difficulty.
• 2Four-Component Mastery - Specialized training for Reading, Writing, Quantitative, Abstract with section-specific strategies.
• 3Perth Modern Specialist Coaching - Targeted preparation for TSS 247+ threshold with proven methods.
• 4AI-Powered Analytics - Identifies strengths and weaknesses instantly with personalized improvement recommendations.
• 5Writing Feedback - Expert marking using ASET criteria with detailed improvement suggestions.
• 6Regional Accessibility - Online platform serves all WA including Perth metro, regional areas (Albany, Bunbury, Kalgoorlie).
• 7ACER Expertise - Developed by team experienced with ACER tests (HAST, ASET) understanding reasoning assessment design.

Recommended ASET practice test frequency:

• 1Full-Length Mock Tests - 10-15 complete ASET tests before test day (one every 3-4 weeks during preparation).
• 2Section-Specific Practice - Weekly focused practice on individual components (Reading, Writing, Quantitative, Abstract).
• 3Timed Practice - At least 6-8 tests under strict timed conditions replicating actual test environment.
• 4Progressive Difficulty - Start with easier practice, gradually increase to ASET-level and beyond.
• 5Review Priority - Spend equal time reviewing mistakes and understanding solutions as taking tests.
• 6Final Month - Weekly full mock tests to build stamina and confidence. Quality over quantity: Detailed analysis and skill development from each test more valuable than simply completing many tests without learning from mistakes.

Improve ASET Abstract Reasoning through systematic practice:

• 1Visual Pattern Puzzles - Daily practice with pattern completion, series, matrix reasoning using IQ test preparation materials.
• 2Systematic Approach - Develop methodology: identify pattern type (rotation, reflection, progression), test hypotheses, eliminate options systematically.
• 3Speed Building - Practice with 30-second time limits per question, gradually reducing to 25 seconds to build speed.
• 4Pattern Categories - Master each type: rotations, reflections, progressions, additions/deletions, combinations.
• 5Logic Puzzles - Sudoku, tangrams, visual brain teasers develop pattern recognition.
• 6Specialized Resources - Use dedicated abstract reasoning workbooks and online platforms.
• 7Regular Practice - 15-20 minutes daily more effective than long irregular sessions. Abstract Reasoning typically shows greatest improvement with practice, making it high-priority preparation area.

Improve ASET Reading Comprehension through:

• 1Wide Reading - Fiction (various genres), non-fiction (science, history, biography), newspapers, quality magazines. Build vocabulary and exposure to complex texts.
• 2Active Reading Practice - Annotate texts, identify main ideas, make inferences, question author's purpose.
• 3Vocabulary Development - Learn 10-15 new words weekly, study word roots and prefixes, practice context clues.
• 4Question Type Mastery - Practice each type: inference, main idea, vocabulary in context, comparing texts, analyzing structure.
• 5Timing Strategies - Develop efficient reading pace (60 seconds per question), practice skimming and scanning.
• 6Graphic Interpretation - Practice reading charts, graphs, diagrams quickly for key information.
• 7Inference Training - Practice reading between lines, identifying implied meanings, drawing logical conclusions.

Achieve high ASET Writing scores through:

• 1Planning Practice - Spend 5 minutes planning: brainstorm ideas, organize structure, identify key points.
• 2Criteria Focus - Write to all three assessment criteria: Thought & Content (original ideas, relevance), Structure & Organisation (logical flow, paragraphs), Expression & Style (vocabulary, sentence variety).
• 3Prompt Analysis - Practice interpreting visual and statement prompts quickly, identifying creative angles.
• 4Genre Mastery - Develop skills in narrative, persuasive, and creative writing as prompt types vary.
• 5Vocabulary Enhancement - Use sophisticated vocabulary naturally, avoid overuse of simple words.
• 6Time Management - Practice 5-15-5 structure: 5 minutes plan, 15 minutes write, 5 minutes edit.
• 7Regular Writing - Write 2-3 timed responses weekly with feedback from experienced markers.
• 8Editing Skills - Practice identifying and correcting errors quickly.

Excel in ASET Quantitative Reasoning through:

• 1Mental Math Development - Practice mental arithmetic daily, develop calculation shortcuts, build number sense without calculator dependence.
• 2Problem-Solving Focus - Practice non-routine problems requiring reasoning beyond standard algorithms, develop multiple solution strategies.
• 3Pattern Recognition - Identify number patterns, sequences, relationships in various contexts.
• 4Data Interpretation - Practice extracting information from graphs, tables, charts quickly and accurately.
• 5Strategic Thinking - Learn to eliminate unlikely answers, estimate to check reasonableness, work backwards when appropriate.
• 6Time Management - Practice solving problems in 60 seconds average, identify quick-solve vs. time-intensive questions.
• 7Systematic Practice - Cover all content areas: number patterns, geometry, measurement, statistics, algebraic thinking.
• 8Speed Building - Gradually increase pace while maintaining accuracy.

Perth Modern School entry requires the highest ASET scores in Western Australia:

• 1Recent Minimum Scores - TSS 247+ in recent years (2023-2024), representing top 2-3% of test-takers.
• 2Score Inflation - Minimum scores increase annually as competition intensifies; 2024 cutoff was 4.68 points higher than 2023.
• 3General GATE vs Perth Modern - General GATE threshold is TSS 210; Perth Modern requires 37+ points higher.
• 4Balanced Performance Required - Must score strongly across all four components; weak performance in one section can prevent entry even if overall TSS is high.
• 5No Guaranteed Score - Exact cutoff varies annually based on applicant pool strength and available places.
• 6Preparation Implications - Aim for TSS 250+ to ensure competitive candidacy as scores continue rising. Professional preparation significantly increases chances of achieving these elite scores.

Yes, Perth Modern School accepts limited late entry applications for Years 9, 10, and 11:

• 1Limited Places - Significantly fewer spots than Year 7 main intake (225 places); late entry typically 5-20 places total depending on vacancies.
• 2ASET Requirement - Must sit ASET and achieve Perth Modern threshold (approximately TSS 247+).
• 3Year Levels - Can apply for Year 9 entry (sit ASET in Year 7), Year 10 entry (sit in Year 8), Year 11 entry (sit in Year 9).
• 4Competition - Extremely competitive due to minimal places; many high-achieving students apply for few positions.
• 5Academic Records - School reports also considered along with ASET scores.
• 6Integration Challenges - Late entrants join established cohorts with advanced curriculum. Most successful pathway is Year 7 main intake. Late entry best for families new to WA or students who previously missed opportunity.

Perth Modern School offers exceptional educational opportunities:

• 1Academic Excellence - Consistently highest ATAR results in WA; students achieve well above state average.
• 2Curriculum Breadth - 35+ ATAR courses including advanced sciences, mathematics, languages, humanities.
• 3Acceleration Opportunities - Students can accelerate in subjects of strength, completing Year 12 subjects early.
• 4Specialist Programs - Music Specialist Program, Languages focus, STEM initiatives, university partnerships.
• 5University Connections - UWA extension programs, CSIRO partnerships, research opportunities.
• 6Peer Learning - All students are high achievers creating motivating academic environment.
• 7Facilities - Historic campus in Subiaco with modern science labs, music facilities, library.
• 8Alumni Network - Strong alumni including Rhodes Scholars, university professors, industry leaders. Perth Modern provides pathway to top university courses and competitive career opportunities.

Perth Modern School location and transport:

• 1Location - Roberts Road, Subiaco (inner Perth suburb), approximately 3km west of Perth CBD.
• 2Public Transport - Excellent access via Subiaco train station (5-minute walk), multiple bus routes, free CAT bus services.
• 3Student Catchment - Students travel from across Perth metro area: northern suburbs (Joondalup, Wanneroo), southern suburbs (Mandurah, Rockingham), eastern suburbs (Midland, Kalamunda), western suburbs (Fremantle).
• 4Travel Time - Most students 30-60 minute commute; some travel 90+ minutes daily.
• 5No Boarding - Perth Modern has no boarding facilities; students must commute daily or arrange private accommodation.
• 6Regional Students - Rare for students from regional WA due to distance; regional GATE programs typically better option. Parents should consider commute feasibility before applying, especially for younger Year 7 students.

ASET results timeline:

• 1Testing Date - March (Term 1).
• 2Performance Reports - Families receive ASET performance reports approximately 2-3 months after testing showing TSS and component scores.
• 3Round 1 Offers - Emailed in late June (approximately 3-4 months after testing). Successful applicants receive program and school placement offers.
• 4Acceptance Deadline - Typically 1-2 weeks to accept or decline offers.
• 5Round 2 Offers - July onwards as places become available from declined offers or withdrawals.
• 6Subsequent Rounds - Multiple offer rounds continue through school holidays as places available.
• 7No Individual Scores - Performance reports show TSS and component standard scores but not individual question results. Families receive notification whether TSS met general GATE threshold
• 210or Perth Modern requirements.

Yes, ASET results checks are available FREE of charge:

• 1When to Request - If you believe there may be marking or reporting errors affecting TSS.
• 2Process - Submit results check request through GATE office specifying concerns.
• 3Review Scope - ACER reviews marking accuracy, calculation of scores, reporting accuracy. Does NOT remark based on disagreement with marker judgment.
• 4Timeline - Results check outcomes issued prior to Round 2 offers, allowing consideration for subsequent offer rounds.
• 5Outcome - If error found, corrected TSS used for placement consideration; if no error found, original scores stand.
• 6No Risk - Scores cannot decrease from results check, only remain same or increase if error found.
• 7Common Reasons - Unexpectedly low TSS compared to practice tests, significant discrepancy between components, administrative concerns. Results checks provide peace of mind and fairness.

If not accepted to Perth Modern School, excellent alternatives exist:

• 1Other GATE Programs - If TSS ≥ 210, may receive offer from other GATE academic programs at schools like Rossmoyne, Churchlands, Willetton, John Curtin, etc.
• 2Arts/Languages GATE - Consider specialized GATE programs in Drama, Music, Visual Arts, or Languages at various schools.
• 3Reapply Next Year - Can reapply for late entry to Perth Modern (Years 9, 10, 11) or different GATE programs.
• 4School-Based Acceleration - Request acceleration or enrichment at local school.
• 5Private Schools - Consider academically selective private schools.
• 6University Programs - Access extension programs like PEAC (Primary Extension and Challenge), UWA extension courses. Skills developed during ASET preparation (reasoning, problem-solving) benefit any educational pathway. Many students achieve excellent academic outcomes through alternative pathways beyond Perth Modern.

If you receive multiple GATE offers:

• 1Preference-Based - Offers typically align with preference order listed in application; first available preference offered.
• 2Decision Timeline - Must accept or decline within specified deadline (typically 1-2 weeks).
• 3One Program Only - Can only accept ONE GATE program placement; cannot hold multiple offers or attend multiple programs simultaneously.
• 4Changing After Acceptance - Once accepted and enrolled, difficult to transfer to different GATE program mid-year.
• 5Strategic Considerations - Accept highest preference received; carefully consider school location, program focus, commute feasibility before deciding.
• 6Declining Offers - If decline offer to wait for better preference in Round 2, no guarantee later offer will come; assess risk carefully.
• 7Perth Modern Priority - If listed Perth Modern first preference and TSS meets threshold, will receive Perth Modern offer automatically.

Required items for ASET test day:

• 1Essential Documents - Printed ASET confirmation email, completed Student ID form with recent photograph.
• 2Writing Materials - Two HB or B pencils (for bubble sheets), good quality eraser, pencil sharpener, blue or black pen (optional for Writing section).
• 3Time Management - Non-smart analog wristwatch (NO smart watches or phones).
• 4Refreshments - Water bottle, light snack for break (nothing requiring utensils).
• 5Comfort - Dress in comfortable layers (test rooms vary in temperature). Prohibited Items: Calculators, mobile phones, smart watches, electronic devices, rulers, dictionaries, correction fluid/tape, study materials. Leave valuables at home. Arrive 15-20 minutes early for check-in. Ensure all pencils are sharpened before test begins.

ASET offers adjusted testing conditions for students with verified needs:

• 1Types of Adjustments - Extra time (typically time-and-a-half), rest breaks, separate testing room, reader/scribe assistance, use of assistive technology, enlarged print materials.
• 2Eligibility - Students with learning difficulties, physical disabilities, medical conditions, or other diagnosed needs affecting test performance.
• 3Application Process - Submit request during ASET application period with supporting documentation: psychologist reports, medical certificates, specialist assessments, current school support documentation.
• 4Review Process - ACER reviews applications and determines appropriate adjustments based on evidence and test integrity.
• 5Exemptions - Students applying for arts programs may be exempt from ASET (performance-based entry instead).
• 6No Disadvantage - Adjustments ensure fair access without stigma; scores treated equally regardless of adjustments used.

Maximize ASET test day performance:

• 1Night Before - Early bed time (8+ hours sleep), avoid cramming, prepare all materials, set multiple alarms.
• 2Morning - Healthy breakfast with protein and complex carbs, arrive venue 20 minutes early.
• 3During Test - Read all instructions carefully, manage time in each section, don't spend too long on difficult questions (move on and return), use process of elimination for multiple-choice, fill in all answers (no negative marking).
• 4Writing Section - Spend full 5 minutes planning, write legibly, save 5 minutes for editing.
• 5Break Time - Use bathroom, have light snack, drink water, stretch briefly, don't discuss test.
• 6Abstract Reasoning - Stay calm despite time pressure, use systematic approach, trust preparation.
• 7Mental Approach - Positive mindset, deep breathing if anxious, focus on doing your best rather than perfection.