"We relocated from Sydney to Brisbane and had no idea how different the selective systems were. Understanding both programs helped us prepare our daughter properly — she's now thriving at QASMT." — Michelle T., Parent, Brisbane
📋 Data Sources for This Guide
Queensland Academies information is sourced from the Queensland Department of Education and individual academy websites. NSW Selective High School data is drawn from the NSW Department of Education's School Recruitment Directorate and official selective school placement guidelines. All entry requirements and test formats reflect the most recently published application cycles.
Quick Answer: QLD Academies vs NSW Selective Schools
Queensland operates 3 specialised academies (QASMT, QACI, QAHS) offering the IB Diploma through university partnerships, with entry at Year 7 (QASMT only) and Year 10. NSW runs 47 selective schools offering the HSC with Year 7 as the main entry point. Queensland uses EduTest-based holistic assessment; NSW uses a single Cambridge Assessment computer-based test. Both are free government schools — the key difference is specialisation (QLD) vs general academic excellence (NSW). Families choosing between selective schools in Brisbane and selective schools NSW should consider whether their child has a clear subject passion or prefers broad flexibility.
QLD Academies vs NSW Selective: Understanding Australia's Two Leading Selective Models
If your family is considering a move between Queensland and New South Wales — or you simply want to understand how Australia's top selective school programs compare — the differences between these two systems may surprise you. While both aim to nurture academically gifted students, the Queensland Academies and the NSW Selective High School system take fundamentally different approaches to identifying and developing talent.
Queensland operates just three specialised academies — QASMT, QACI, and QAHS — each partnered with a major university and focused on a distinct discipline. New South Wales, by contrast, runs 47 selective schools spread across the state, offering broad academic excellence without subject-specific specialisation. For families comparing selective schools in Australia, these represent the two dominant models.
These structural differences flow through to every aspect of the student experience — from how children are tested, to what they study, to the culture of each school. Whether you're a Queensland family curious about NSW options, a Sydney parent eyeing Brisbane, or simply researching the best fit for your child, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.
In this guide, you'll discover:
- How the three QLD Academies differ from NSW's 47 selective schools
- The key differences between EduTest and Cambridge Assessment entry exams
- Entry pathways and year levels for each system
- Cost comparisons including application fees and hidden expenses
- Specialisation vs general excellence — which model suits your child
- Complete application timelines for both states
- A practical framework for deciding between the two programs
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System Overview: Scale and Structure
The most immediate difference between Queensland and New South Wales is sheer scale. NSW operates the largest selective school network in Australia, while Queensland takes a boutique, university-integrated approach.
By the Numbers
How the two selective systems compare at a glance
QLD Academies
Specialised academies partnered with universities
NSW Selective Schools
25 fully selective and 22 partially selective
QLD Entry Points
Year 7 for QASMT only; Year 10 for all three
NSW Entry Point
Primary entry with ~4,248 places available
New South Wales has built its selective schools NSW system over decades. With 25 fully selective and 22 partially selective high schools, the network spans every major region — from iconic schools like James Ruse Agricultural High School and North Sydney Boys High School on the North Shore to Penrith Selective in Western Sydney and Gosford High School on the Central Coast. Each year, approximately 4,248 places are offered from a pool of more than 17,000 applicants.
Queensland takes a deliberately concentrated approach. The state operates just three academies, each established through a partnership with a leading Queensland university:
- Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology (QASMT) — located in Toowong, partnered with the University of Queensland
- Queensland Academy for Creative Industries (QACI) — located in Kelvin Grove, partnered with the Queensland University of Technology
- Queensland Academy for Health Sciences (QAHS) — located on the Gold Coast, partnered with Griffith University
This university partnership model is unique in Australia. Students at each academy benefit from access to university facilities, guest lecturers, and research opportunities that would be unusual in a traditional high school setting.
Specialisation vs General Academic Excellence
Perhaps the most significant philosophical difference lies in what each system is designed to achieve.
Queensland's academies are discipline-specific. When families apply, they are choosing not just a selective school but a field of study. A student at QASMT will be immersed in science, mathematics, and technology. A student at QACI will focus on creative industries — encompassing the arts, digital media, and design. A student at QAHS will pursue health sciences. Each academy delivers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, and the curriculum is shaped around the academy's specialisation.
This means a Queensland family needs to consider their child's interests and aptitudes early. A student who loves both mathematics and music may find the choice between QASMT and QACI genuinely difficult. For families exploring selective schools Brisbane options, this is one of the first decisions to navigate.
NSW selective schools, by contrast, offer general academic excellence. Whether a student attends James Ruse, Baulkham Hills, or Sydney Girls, the curriculum follows the standard NSW syllabus with the expectation that all students perform at an advanced level across subjects. Students choose their own electives and HSC subjects without being locked into a particular discipline from the outset.
Specialisation vs General Excellence
How each system approaches academic development
| Feature | Option 1 | Option 2 | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum Model | IB Diploma Programme with discipline focus | NSW HSC syllabus with broad subject choice | Depends on student's clarity of interest |
| Subject Focus | Locked to academy specialisation | Open — students choose electives freely | NSW offers more flexibility |
| University Partnership | Direct partnership with UQ, QUT, or Griffith | No formal university partnerships | QLD unique advantage |
| Number of Schools | 3 academies statewide | 47 schools across all regions | NSW offers far more options |
| Post-School Pathway | IB Diploma (internationally recognised) | HSC with ATAR ranking | Both well-recognised nationally |
For families who value breadth and flexibility, the NSW model may be more appealing. For students with a clear passion — particularly in STEM, creative industries, or health sciences — Queensland's focused approach can provide deeper engagement and earlier exposure to university-level thinking. The IB vs HSC question is central to this decision: the IB Diploma offers international recognition and a research-oriented framework, while the HSC provides subject flexibility and a well-established ATAR pathway.
Entry Tests Compared: EduTest vs Cambridge Assessment
The testing instruments used by each state differ significantly in format, delivery, and what they measure.
Queensland Academies: EduTest-Based Assessment
Queensland Academies use an EduTest-based assessment as part of their selection process. EduTest is an Australian assessment provider used by selective and independent schools across several states. The QLD assessment evaluates academic aptitude and reasoning ability, and results are considered alongside other application components such as school reports and, in some cases, interviews or portfolios (particularly for QACI's creative focus).
The assessment is one part of a holistic selection model — the academies do not rely on a single test score alone.
NSW Selective: Cambridge Assessment Computer-Based Test
New South Wales uses a computer-based test developed by Cambridge Assessment as the NSW selective test, delivered in a standardised format across external test centres. The test comprises four equally weighted components completed in a total of 155 minutes:
- Reading — 17 questions (including 3 multi-part), 45 minutes, 25% weighting
- Mathematical Reasoning — 35 questions, 40 minutes, 25% weighting
- Thinking Skills — 40 questions, 40 minutes, 25% weighting
- Writing — 1 extended task, 30 minutes, 25% weighting
The NSW test is entirely standardised. Every applicant sits the same exam on the same day, and results are used to rank students against a single merit scale. Schools are then allocated through a preference system combined with the 20% equity placement model, which reserves one in five places for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Key Testing Difference
The NSW selective test is a single, high-stakes standardised exam that determines placement entirely on merit ranking. Queensland's process is more holistic, combining the EduTest assessment with additional criteria. For families accustomed to one system, this distinction is crucial when preparing for the other.
A critical practical difference for NSW applicants is the requirement for computer-based delivery. Students need to be comfortable with on-screen reading, mouse-based navigation, and — for the writing component — keyboard typing at approximately 30–35 words per minute. Queensland's EduTest assessment does not carry the same emphasis on digital fluency.
Entry Pathways and Year Levels
The entry points available to students differ between the two systems, and this has significant implications for preparation timelines.
Queensland offers two distinct entry windows:
- Year 7 entry — available only at QASMT (the science, mathematics, and technology academy in Toowong). Students apply during Year 6.
- Year 10 entry — available at all three academies (QASMT, QACI, and QAHS). Students apply during Year 9.
This means students who wish to attend QACI or QAHS must wait until Year 10 to enter. For families interested in creative industries or health sciences, the selective pathway begins later than in NSW.
New South Wales centres its selective entry on Year 7, with students sitting the placement test during Year 6. This is the primary intake for all 47 selective schools. While some schools offer limited places in later years (subject to vacancies), Year 7 is overwhelmingly the main — and most competitive — entry point.
When Students Enter Each System
QLD Year 7 Entry (QASMT only)
Students apply in Year 6 for Year 7 placement at the Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology. This is the only academy accepting Year 7 students.
NSW Year 7 Entry (all 47 schools)
Students apply in Year 6 and sit the Cambridge Assessment computer-based test. Approximately 4,248 places are offered across 47 selective and partially selective schools.
QLD Year 10 Entry (all three academies)
Students apply in Year 9 for Year 10 placement at QASMT, QACI, or QAHS. This is the primary entry point for the Creative Industries and Health Sciences academies.
Cost and Application Fees
Cost is a practical consideration for families, particularly those applying to programs in both states.
Queensland Academies charge a $250 non-refundable application fee. This covers the EduTest assessment and the administrative processing of the application. There are no additional test registration fees beyond this amount.
NSW Selective Schools operate a centralised application through the NSW Department of Education. The application fee is set by the department each year, and fee waivers are available for families experiencing financial hardship. The test itself is administered at no additional cost beyond the application fee.
Both systems are public schools, meaning tuition is free once a student is enrolled. However, families should factor in costs such as uniforms, excursions, subject-specific materials, and — in Queensland's case — potential IB Diploma fees for external examinations in Years 11 and 12.
Hidden Costs to Consider
While both programs are government-funded, the IB Diploma at Queensland Academies involves external examination fees set by the International Baccalaureate Organisation. NSW HSC examinations are administered by NESA at no cost to students. Factor this into your long-term budgeting.
Application Process: Step by Step
Queensland Academies Application
The Queensland application is managed through the individual academies in coordination with the Queensland Department of Education. Families typically:
- Research the academies to determine which specialisation aligns with their child's strengths
- Complete the online application through the relevant academy's portal
- Pay the $250 non-refundable fee at the time of application
- Student sits the EduTest assessment at an arranged testing session
- Additional components may include school reports, references, and — for QACI — a creative portfolio or audition
- Offers are made based on the holistic assessment of all components
NSW Selective Schools Application
The NSW process is fully centralised through the Department of Education:
- Register online via the selective school application portal during the designated window
- Pay the application fee and provide required documentation
- List school preferences — families rank their preferred selective schools in order
- Student sits the Cambridge Assessment test at an allocated external test centre
- Results are processed and students are ranked on a statewide merit scale
- Offers are made according to merit ranking, school preferences, and the 20% equity placement model
Before You Apply: Essential Preparation Checklist
- ✓Confirm your child's year level eligibility for the target entry point
- ✓Research the specific academy or selective school options in your area
- ✓Check application opening and closing dates — these are strict deadlines
- ✓Ensure your child has practised with the relevant test format (EduTest or computer-based)
- ✓For QLD: identify whether Year 7 or Year 10 entry suits your family's timeline
- ✓For NSW: practise keyboard typing to reach 30–35 WPM for the writing component
- ✓Budget for application fees and any associated preparation costs
- ✓Discuss your child's academic interests — specialisation (QLD) or breadth (NSW)
Key Timelines: When to Prepare and Apply
Timing is everything. Missing a deadline means waiting another full year, so understanding the calendar for each system is essential.
Preparation and Application Timelines
12–18 Months Before Entry
Objectives
- Identify target program (QLD or NSW)
- Assess child's academic strengths and interests
Key Activities
- Begin familiarisation with test formats
- Build core reasoning and literacy skills
- For NSW: start regular keyboard typing practice
6–12 Months Before Entry
Objectives
- Develop exam-specific skills
- Practise under timed conditions
Key Activities
- Complete practice tests in the relevant format
- For QLD: prepare portfolio materials if applying to QACI
- Strengthen weaker subject areas identified through practice
Application Window
Objectives
- Submit applications before the deadline
- Confirm test logistics
Key Activities
- Complete the online application and pay fees
- For NSW: submit school preference list carefully
- Ensure all supporting documentation is provided
Test and Offer Period
Objectives
- Sit the assessment
- Receive and respond to offers
Key Activities
- Student completes the EduTest (QLD) or Cambridge Assessment (NSW)
- Results and offers are communicated to families
- Accept or decline offers within the specified timeframe
Queensland and NSW application windows do not perfectly align. If your family is considering both states — for instance, due to an upcoming relocation — check the specific dates published by each department well in advance. Preparing for both simultaneously is possible but requires careful planning, as the test formats differ significantly.
Which Program Is Right for Your Child?
There is no universally better system. The right choice depends on your child's personality, academic profile, and your family's circumstances.
Queensland Academies may be the better fit if your child:
- Has a clear, strong interest in a specific field (STEM, creative arts, or health sciences)
- Thrives in smaller, more focused learning environments
- Would benefit from university partnerships and early research exposure
- Is comfortable with the International Baccalaureate model
- Is entering Year 10 and wants to specialise for the final years of school
NSW Selective Schools may be the better fit if your child:
- Excels broadly across multiple subjects without a single dominant passion
- Prefers to keep subject options open through to Year 12
- Wants access to a wider network of schools and locations
- Performs well in high-stakes, standardised testing environments
- Is entering Year 7 and wants the selective experience from the start of high school
"Both systems produce outstanding outcomes. The question isn't which is better — it's which is better for your child. A student who would flourish at QASMT might feel constrained at a general selective school, and vice versa."
Academic Advisory Team
For families relocating between states, keep in mind that the skills developed through preparation for one system are largely transferable. Strong reading comprehension, mathematical reasoning, and critical thinking are valued by both programs. The main adjustment will be familiarisation with the specific test format and, in Queensland's case, understanding the holistic application model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my child apply to both QLD Academies and NSW Selective Schools?
Yes, there is no rule preventing applications to both states. However, your child would need to prepare for two different test formats (EduTest and Cambridge Assessment), and you would need to manage separate application timelines. This is most relevant for families considering an interstate move.
Is QASMT comparable to James Ruse?
Both are considered among the top selective schools in their respective states. QASMT offers the IB Diploma with a STEM specialisation and university partnership with UQ, while James Ruse follows the NSW HSC curriculum and consistently achieves the highest HSC results in the state. They serve different educational philosophies — direct comparison requires understanding what each prioritises.
Which test is harder — EduTest or the NSW Cambridge Assessment?
The tests assess different skills in different formats, making direct difficulty comparisons misleading. The NSW test is a single, high-stakes standardised exam with strict time limits across four components. Queensland's EduTest is one part of a broader assessment. Neither is inherently "harder," but each requires specific preparation strategies.
What if my child doesn't have a clear specialisation for QLD?
If your child's interests are broad and they would struggle to choose one academy focus, the NSW model may offer more flexibility. Alternatively, QASMT's science and mathematics focus is the broadest of the three QLD academies and may suit students with general STEM aptitude. Year 10 entry also gives students more time to clarify their interests.
Are Queensland Academy graduates disadvantaged for university entry compared to NSW HSC students?
No. The International Baccalaureate Diploma is recognised by all Australian universities, and IB scores are converted to an equivalent ATAR for admissions purposes. Many universities actively seek IB graduates. Queensland Academy students are well-positioned for university entry nationally and internationally.
Is there an equity placement model in Queensland like the 20% in NSW?
Queensland Academies consider a range of factors in their holistic selection process, but they do not operate the same formalised 20% equity placement model that NSW uses for selective school placements.
Whether your child is targeting Queensland Academies or NSW Selective Schools, structured preparation builds the reasoning, literacy, and test-readiness skills that both systems demand.
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Helpful Resources for Your Family
Explore guides, preparation programs, and tools for both QLD and NSW selective entry.
Queensland Academies Preparation
Targeted preparation for EduTest-based entry to QASMT, QACI, and QAHS.
Access ResourceNSW Selective School Preparation
Comprehensive coaching for the Cambridge Assessment computer-based test.
Access ResourceNSW Selective School Entry: Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about the NSW selective placement process.
Access ResourceFree Selective Practice Tests
Try sample questions and full-length practice tests at no cost.
Access ResourceSelective Test Score Calculator
Estimate where your child's practice scores sit against the competition.
Access ResourceNSW Selective Schools Directory
Browse all 47 selective and partially selective schools by region.
Access ResourceRelated Guides
- Queensland Academies Preparation — Dedicated preparation programs for QLD Academy entry
- NSW Selective School Preparation — Expert coaching for the NSW selective placement test
- NSW Selective School Entry: Complete Guide — Full walkthrough of the NSW application and testing process
- Free Mock Tests — Practise with realistic sample papers for both systems
Last updated: 28 January 2026