"We started in Year 4 thinking we were early — turns out we were right on schedule. Having a clear timeline took so much of the guesswork and stress out of the process. Our son knew exactly what he was working towards at each stage, and that made all the difference."
Parent, BSHS
Data Sources & Verification
This guide is based on official application timelines published by Brisbane State High School, the Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology (QASMT), and the Queensland Academies (QACI, QAHS). Entry test formats reflect ACER's Higher Ability Selection Test (HAST) for BSHS and EduTest for Queensland Academies. NAPLAN information aligns with the current ACARA testing framework. Always confirm dates and requirements directly with each school, as timelines may shift annually.
Queensland Selective School Preparation: The Quick Answer
The ideal BSHS preparation timeline starts with enrichment in Year 3, structured hast test practice from Year 4, and intensive preparation in Year 5 — the critical application year for both BSHS Year 5 conditional entry and QASMT Year 7 entry. For Queensland Academies Year 10 entry, begin edutest preparation 9–12 months before the Year 8 application. Key milestones: strong NAPLAN Year 5 results (top bands), familiarity with the hast test format (BSHS) or edutest practice test materials (QASMT/QA), and consistent daily practice of 30–45 minutes. NAPLAN preparation overlaps significantly with selective school prep, but selective tests also assess abstract reasoning and have a much higher difficulty ceiling.
Queensland Selective School Preparation Timeline: Your Complete Year-by-Year Guide
Queensland offers multiple selective school pathways, each with its own application window, entry test and selection criteria. Whether your child is targeting Brisbane State High School in Year 7, QASMT in Year 7, or a Queensland Academy in Year 10, understanding exactly when to start — and what to focus on at each stage — is the single most important factor in a successful application.
The challenge for Queensland parents is that these pathways overlap, diverge and have different preparation demands. BSHS uses the hast test (Higher Ability Selection Test) developed by ACER, which assesses aptitude rather than curriculum knowledge — making hast test practice essential for building the right skills. The Queensland Academies use EduTest, which covers Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics and Writing — and regular edutest practice test sessions are the best way to build familiarity with this format. Both pathways require strong NAPLAN year 5 results (top bands) and positive school reports, so naplan preparation should be integrated into your overall timeline.
This guide maps out every stage of preparation from Year 3 through Year 10, so you never have to wonder whether you're starting too early, too late, or focusing on the wrong things.
In this guide, you'll discover:
- The exact application and testing timeline for each QLD selective pathway
- When to start preparing for BSHS Year 5 conditional entry and Year 6 standard entry
- How the QASMT Year 7 application process works — and why Year 5 is the critical year
- Month-by-month milestones from Year 3 through Year 10
- A skills development roadmap that builds capability progressively
- How NAPLAN preparation overlaps with selective school test preparation
- What to focus on at each year level — and what to avoid
- How early is too early for selective school preparation
Navigate to the section most relevant to your child's year level and target pathway.
Click any section above to jump directly to that content
Understanding the Four QLD Selective Pathways
Before mapping out a preparation timeline, it is essential to understand the four distinct entry points available in Queensland. Each has different application years, testing formats and selection criteria.
Queensland Selective Entry Points
Four pathways, four timelines — know which applies to your child
BSHS Conditional Entry
Apply in Year 5 for conditional placement in Year 7 — HAST test by ACER
BSHS Standard Entry
Apply in Year 6 for direct Year 7 entry — HAST test by ACER
QASMT Year 7 Entry
Apply in Year 5 (two years before entry) — EduTest over two days
QA Year 10 Entry
Apply in Year 8 for QASMT, QACI or QAHS Year 10 entry — EduTest
Brisbane State High School (BSHS)
BSHS offers two entry rounds for its selective programme. The BSHS Year 5 conditional entry allows students to apply two years before Year 7, receiving a conditional offer based on hast test results and school reports. The Year 6 standard entry is the main application round as part of the BSHS preparation timeline. Both use ACER's hast test, which assesses Reading Comprehension, Mathematical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning and Written Expression. The hast test is an aptitude assessment — it measures higher-order thinking, not curriculum content. This is why hast test practice should focus on reasoning skills rather than content drilling.
QASMT Year 7 Entry
The Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology (QASMT) is the only Queensland Academy that accepts Year 7 students. Applications are submitted in Year 5, with testing taking place approximately two years before entry. The assessment uses EduTest, covering Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics and Written Expression across a two-day testing period. Using edutest practice test materials well before the exam is critical for success. Selection also considers NAPLAN year 5 results and school reports — another reason naplan preparation should begin early.
Queensland Academies Year 10 Entry
All three Queensland Academies — QASMT (Toowong), QACI (Kelvin Grove) and QAHS (Gold Coast) — accept students for Year 10 entry. Applications are submitted during Year 8, approximately one year before the intended entry. The EduTest format is used, with the same five components — so students should begin edutest preparation at least 9–12 months ahead. Strong NAPLAN results and school reports are required alongside test performance, and families should plan their edutest practice test schedule around school commitments.
Multiple Pathways Are Possible
Some students apply for both BSHS and QASMT in Year 5, as the application periods can overlap. Others may miss out on Year 7 entry and later target a Queensland Academy for Year 10. Understanding all four pathways allows you to build a preparation plan that keeps multiple options open.
The Master Timeline: All Pathways at a Glance
Queensland Selective School Master Timeline
Year 3 — Foundation Building
Objectives
- Develop a love of reading and curiosity across subjects
- Build core literacy and numeracy well above grade level
Key Activities
- Daily independent reading — 20–30 minutes of varied text types
- Develop vocabulary through wide reading and word investigation
- Strengthen mental arithmetic and number sense through puzzles and games
- Encourage curiosity, questioning and exploration beyond the school curriculum
- Introduce logic puzzles and pattern recognition activities informally
Year 4 — Skills Acceleration
Objectives
- Build reasoning and analytical thinking skills
- Prepare for NAPLAN Year 5 (which feeds into selective applications)
Key Activities
- Introduce structured verbal and numerical reasoning practice
- Begin timed reading comprehension exercises at above-grade difficulty
- Develop essay writing skills — persuasive, narrative and analytical formats
- Start abstract reasoning and pattern recognition exercises
- Familiarise yourself with NAPLAN format and expectations for Year 5
- Research BSHS and QASMT entry requirements and timelines
Year 5 — Application Year (BSHS Conditional + QASMT Year 7)
Objectives
- Submit applications for BSHS conditional entry and/or QASMT Year 7
- Achieve top-band NAPLAN results in Year 5
- Complete HAST (BSHS) and/or EduTest (QASMT) preparation
Key Activities
- Term 1: Finalise applications — check closing dates for both BSHS and QASMT
- Term 1–2: Intensive HAST and/or EduTest preparation with practice tests
- May: NAPLAN testing — aim for top bands in all domains
- Term 2–3: Complete entrance testing (dates vary by school)
- Continue developing writing stamina and sophistication for essay components
- Build exam-day strategies — time management, question triage, stress management
Year 6 — BSHS Standard Entry
Objectives
- Submit application for BSHS standard Year 7 entry
- Complete HAST preparation for the standard entry round
Key Activities
- Term 1: Submit BSHS standard entry application (check closing date)
- Term 1–2: Targeted HAST preparation — focus on areas identified in diagnostics
- Complete full-length practice tests under timed conditions
- Refine writing skills for the Written Expression component
- Maintain strong academic performance for school report assessment
- If already holding a QASMT conditional offer, continue academic preparation for Year 7 transition
Years 7–8 — Queensland Academies Year 10 Pathway
Objectives
- Build advanced skills for QA Year 10 EduTest entry
- Submit QA application during Year 8
Key Activities
- Year 7: Build broad academic strength — excel across all subjects for school reports
- Year 7: Achieve strong NAPLAN Year 7 results (top bands)
- Year 8 Term 1: Research QA campuses — QASMT, QACI and QAHS — and identify best fit
- Year 8 Term 1–2: Submit QA application (check closing dates)
- Year 8: Intensive EduTest preparation covering all five components
- Year 8 Term 2–3: Complete entrance testing
Year 3: Building the Foundation
Year 3 is not about test preparation. It is about building the intellectual habits and core skills that will make future test preparation effective. Children who arrive at formal preparation in Year 4 or 5 with strong reading habits, genuine curiosity and solid number sense progress significantly faster than those who start from scratch.
What to Focus On
Reading is the single most impactful activity at this stage. Children who read widely and independently develop the vocabulary, comprehension speed and inferential thinking that underpin every selective school test — whether HAST or EduTest. Aim for 20–30 minutes of daily reading across fiction, non-fiction, science texts and age-appropriate news articles.
Mathematics at this stage should emphasise understanding, not rote procedure. Focus on mental arithmetic, number patterns, spatial reasoning and word problems that require children to think rather than simply calculate. Board games, logic puzzles and mathematical investigations build these skills naturally.
Writing should be encouraged but not drilled. Regular journalling, creative writing and letter-writing develop fluency and confidence. The goal is a child who can express ideas clearly in writing — formal essay structures come later.
The Year 3 Principle
In Year 3, the best preparation does not look like preparation at all. It looks like a child who reads for pleasure, asks questions about the world, enjoys puzzles and number challenges, and writes because they have something to say. These habits, built early, compound over time and form the foundation for everything that follows.
Year 4: Strengthening Core Skills
Year 4 marks the transition from purely organic skill-building to more structured development. This is the year to introduce reasoning exercises, begin building awareness of standardised test formats, and ensure your child is tracking towards top-band NAPLAN performance in Year 5.
Month-by-Month Focus
Year 4 Monthly Milestones
Term 1 (January–March)
Objectives
- Assess current skill levels across reading, maths, reasoning and writing
- Establish a consistent study routine — 20–30 minutes daily beyond homework
Key Activities
- Complete a diagnostic assessment to identify strengths and gaps
- Begin structured verbal reasoning exercises — synonyms, analogies, word relationships
- Introduce numerical reasoning — number patterns, sequences, logical deduction
- Continue daily independent reading at progressively higher difficulty
Term 2 (April–June)
Objectives
- Build reading comprehension skills for complex texts
- Develop writing across multiple formats
Key Activities
- Work through reading comprehension passages requiring inference and evaluation
- Practise persuasive and narrative writing with basic timed conditions (20–25 minutes)
- Introduce abstract reasoning and pattern recognition exercises
- Begin researching BSHS and QASMT entry requirements and timelines
Term 3 (July–September)
Objectives
- Build test stamina and time management awareness
- Strengthen mathematical reasoning beyond grade-level curriculum
Key Activities
- Complete multi-section practice exercises with gentle time limits
- Extend maths to above-grade problem solving — fractions, ratios, word problems
- Increase writing sophistication — clear paragraphing, varied sentence structure, evidence use
- Attend school open days for BSHS and QASMT if available
Term 4 (October–December)
Objectives
- Consolidate all skill areas before the critical Year 5
- Set clear goals for the year ahead
Key Activities
- Complete a second diagnostic assessment to measure progress since Term 1
- Identify remaining gaps and create a targeted improvement plan for Year 5
- Maintain reading, reasoning and writing routines through the holidays
- Prepare a calendar of key Year 5 dates — application deadlines, NAPLAN, testing windows
Year 5: The Critical Application Year
Year 5 is where preparation meets execution. This is the application year for both BSHS conditional entry and QASMT Year 7 entry. It is also the year your child sits NAPLAN Year 5, the results of which directly contribute to selective school applications. There is no more important year in the Queensland selective school timeline.
BSHS Year 5 Conditional Entry
The conditional entry pathway allows Year 5 students to receive an early offer for BSHS, conditional on continued academic performance. Applications typically open in Term 1, with HAST testing conducted during the year. The HAST assesses aptitude — not curriculum knowledge — across Reading Comprehension, Mathematical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning and Written Expression.
Because the HAST is an aptitude test, preparation should focus on developing higher-order thinking skills rather than drilling content. Students need strong inference skills, the ability to recognise patterns in unfamiliar contexts, and the capacity to construct a coherent written argument under time pressure.
QASMT Year 7 Entry
QASMT applications for Year 7 entry are also submitted in Year 5, approximately two years before the intended start date. The EduTest assessment typically takes place in September, spanning two days. It covers Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics and Written Expression.
The EduTest is designed so that approximately 50% of questions are challenging enough that most students will not complete every section. This means preparation strategies should include time management and question triage — knowing when to move on and when to persist.
NAPLAN Year 5
NAPLAN results in Year 5 carry significant weight for selective school applications. Both BSHS and QASMT expect applicants to demonstrate top-band performance across Reading, Writing, Language Conventions and Numeracy. Strong NAPLAN results complement test scores and school reports to build a complete application profile.
Year 5 Action Checklist
- ✓Confirm application deadlines for BSHS conditional entry and QASMT Year 7
- ✓Complete BSHS and/or QASMT applications before the closing date
- ✓Complete HAST-specific preparation if applying to BSHS — focus on aptitude, not curriculum
- ✓Complete EduTest-specific preparation if applying to QASMT — all five components
- ✓Sit NAPLAN Year 5 with confidence — aim for top bands in all domains
- ✓Ensure current school reports reflect strong academic performance and positive teacher comments
- ✓Complete full-length practice tests under realistic timed conditions before the testing date
- ✓Develop exam-day strategies — time management, stress management, question selection
- ✓Maintain consistent daily study — 30–45 minutes of focused preparation
- ✓Keep the broader perspective — this is one pathway, not the only pathway
Application Dates Change Annually
While the general timeline remains consistent — Year 5 applications for BSHS conditional and QASMT Year 7 — the specific opening and closing dates shift from year to year. Always check the official BSHS and QASMT websites for current-year dates. Missing an application deadline means waiting an entire year or moving to a different pathway.
Year 6: BSHS Standard Entry and Continued Development
Year 6 is the standard application year for BSHS. Students who did not apply through the Year 5 conditional pathway — or who were unsuccessful — can apply in Year 6 for direct Year 7 entry. The HAST is used again, assessing the same aptitude areas.
For students who already hold a conditional offer from BSHS or an offer from QASMT, Year 6 is about maintaining academic momentum and preparing for the transition to selective schooling. The shift from a regular primary school environment to a selective high school is significant, and students who arrive with strong self-management and study skills adjust more quickly.
What to Focus On
- BSHS applicants: Targeted HAST preparation, focusing on areas identified through diagnostic testing. Build exam confidence with full-length timed practice.
- Students with offers: Strengthen independent study habits, extend reading to more complex texts, and develop note-taking and self-organisation skills.
- All students: Continue developing writing across multiple formats — persuasive, analytical and creative — as these skills serve every pathway.
- Keep options open: If your child is not successful in Year 5 or 6 applications, the Queensland Academies Year 10 pathway remains available.
Strong BSHS preparation strategies emphasise aptitude development over content cramming. The HAST rewards students who think flexibly, recognise patterns and can apply reasoning to unfamiliar problems — skills that cannot be built overnight but respond well to consistent, structured practice.
Years 7 and 8: Queensland Academies Year 10 Pathway
For students who did not enter a selective programme in Year 7 — or who discover the Queensland Academies later — the Year 10 entry pathway provides a second opportunity. All three campuses accept Year 10 students: QASMT for Science, Mathematics and Technology; QACI for Creative Industries; and QAHS for Health Sciences.
Applications are submitted during Year 8, approximately one year before the intended Year 10 start. The EduTest is used, with the same five components as the Year 7 entry assessment, adjusted for the older cohort.
Years 7–8: Queensland Academies Year 10 Preparation
Year 7 — Building the Academic Profile
Objectives
- Excel academically across all subjects to build a strong school report
- Achieve top-band NAPLAN Year 7 results
Key Activities
- Maintain broad academic excellence — QA selection considers overall performance, not just test scores
- Sit NAPLAN Year 7 with preparation and focus — top-band results are expected for competitive applicants
- Continue developing reasoning, comprehension and writing skills
- Research QASMT, QACI and QAHS to identify the best campus and specialisation for your child
- Attend open days and information evenings at preferred campuses
Year 8 — Application and Testing
Objectives
- Submit the Queensland Academies application on time
- Complete intensive EduTest preparation across all five components
Key Activities
- Term 1: Confirm application deadlines and submit the application
- Terms 1–2: Begin structured EduTest preparation — Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics, Written Expression
- Complete diagnostic testing to identify strengths and areas requiring improvement
- Work through timed practice tests to build exam stamina — EduTest is designed for approximately 50% completion rate
- Develop strong persuasive and analytical writing under timed conditions
- Maintain school performance — reports are assessed as part of the application
The Queensland Academies preparation pathway requires a different mindset from Year 7 selective entry. Year 10 applicants are older, more academically developed and face a test calibrated for their year level. The EduTest at this stage expects sophisticated reasoning, advanced mathematical thinking and mature written expression. Starting preparation at least 9–12 months before the testing date gives students the time they need to build these skills comprehensively.
NAPLAN and Selective School Preparation: The Overlap
One of the most common questions Queensland parents ask is whether NAPLAN preparation and selective school preparation are the same thing. The answer is: they overlap significantly, but they are not identical.
Where They Overlap
NAPLAN tests Reading, Writing, Language Conventions and Numeracy — all of which are relevant to selective school entry tests. A student undertaking naplan preparation for BSHS or QASMT will naturally build skills that transfer to hast test practice and edutest practice test sessions, because the underlying abilities are the same: reading comprehension, mathematical reasoning, vocabulary and written expression.
Strong NAPLAN year 5 results are directly required by both BSHS and the Queensland Academies as part of the application. Top-band naplan year 5 performance demonstrates consistent academic ability and is used alongside test scores and school reports to assess suitability. This makes naplan preparation a non-negotiable part of the BSHS preparation timeline.
Where They Differ
Selective school tests go beyond NAPLAN in several important ways:
- Abstract and non-verbal reasoning — NAPLAN does not test abstract reasoning or pattern recognition, but both the hast test and EduTest include these components — which is why dedicated hast test practice and edutest practice test work is essential beyond naplan preparation
- Aptitude vs achievement — NAPLAN measures achievement against curriculum standards, while the hast test specifically assesses aptitude and higher-order thinking
- Difficulty ceiling — Selective school tests are designed to differentiate high-ability students from each other, meaning the difficulty ceiling is substantially higher than NAPLAN year 5
- Time pressure — EduTest is designed for approximately 50% completion, creating significant time pressure that NAPLAN does not replicate — regular edutest practice test sessions build this stamina
Use NAPLAN as a Benchmark, Not a Ceiling
NAPLAN preparation is a valuable component of selective school readiness, but it should not be the only preparation your child undertakes. Think of NAPLAN as the foundation — it confirms core skills are strong. Selective school preparation then builds higher-order reasoning, abstract thinking and advanced test strategies on top of that foundation.
How Early Is Too Early?
This is perhaps the most debated question among Queensland parents, and the answer depends on what you mean by "preparation."
Too Early: Formal Test Drilling Before Year 4
Sitting a child down with practice test papers in Year 2 or Year 3 is counterproductive. At this age, children are still developing foundational literacy and numeracy skills. Formal test drilling can create anxiety, erode enjoyment of learning and build a negative association with academic challenge. There is no evidence that early test drilling produces better outcomes — and considerable evidence that it can produce worse ones.
Just Right: Enrichment from Year 3, Structured Preparation from Year 4
The ideal approach begins with enrichment activities in Year 3 — wide reading, mathematical games, logic puzzles, creative writing and curiosity-driven exploration. These activities build the cognitive foundations that formal preparation later relies on. From Year 4, more structured activities can be introduced — reasoning exercises, comprehension practice, timed writing — gradually building towards the demands of Year 5 testing.
Too Late: Starting in the Testing Year
Beginning preparation in the same year as application and testing leaves insufficient time to develop the skills these tests assess. The HAST and EduTest reward deep, well-developed reasoning abilities that build over months and years, not weeks. A student starting in Year 5 with no prior enrichment or structured practice faces a significant disadvantage compared to peers who have been building skills progressively.
The Right Start at Each Stage
Year 3: Enrichment and Habit-Building
Daily reading, maths games, logic puzzles, creative writing. No formal test practice. Build curiosity and love of learning.
Year 4: Structured Skill Development
Introduce reasoning exercises, comprehension practice, timed writing. Begin building awareness of test formats. Establish a consistent study routine.
Year 5: Application and Testing
Intensive, targeted preparation for HAST and/or EduTest. NAPLAN preparation. Application submission. Full-length practice tests under exam conditions.
Year 6: Standard Entry or Transition Preparation
BSHS standard entry preparation if applicable. Build independent study skills for selective school transition.
Years 7–8: Queensland Academies Year 10 Pathway
Maintain academic excellence. Begin EduTest preparation 9–12 months before testing. Submit QA application in Year 8.
The Skills Development Roadmap
Regardless of which pathway your child targets, the underlying skills that selective school tests assess are the same. The difference is the depth and sophistication expected at each entry point. Here is a progressive roadmap that builds capability from Year 3 through Year 10.
Skills Development Roadmap: Year 3 to Year 10
Reading and Comprehension
Objectives
- Progress from literal comprehension to inferential, evaluative and critical reading
Key Activities
- Year 3–4: Read widely across genres — build vocabulary and reading fluency
- Year 4–5: Develop inference skills — reading between the lines, identifying author purpose and tone
- Year 5–6: Tackle complex texts — editorials, scientific articles, literary extracts with multiple layers of meaning
- Year 7–8: Develop evaluative and critical reading — assess arguments, identify bias, compare perspectives across texts
Mathematical and Numerical Reasoning
Objectives
- Move from procedural mathematics to flexible, reasoning-based problem solving
Key Activities
- Year 3–4: Build number sense and mental arithmetic — patterns, estimation, spatial reasoning
- Year 4–5: Develop problem-solving strategies — work backwards, draw diagrams, identify relationships
- Year 5–6: Extend to above-grade concepts — ratios, percentages, algebraic thinking, multi-step problems
- Year 7–8: Apply mathematical reasoning to unfamiliar contexts — data interpretation, logical deduction, proof-style thinking
Verbal and Abstract Reasoning
Objectives
- Develop the pattern recognition and logical thinking that aptitude tests assess
Key Activities
- Year 3–4: Informal logic puzzles, pattern games, analogies through conversation and play
- Year 4–5: Structured verbal reasoning exercises — word relationships, classifications, sequences
- Year 5–6: Abstract reasoning with non-verbal patterns — rotations, reflections, series completion
- Year 7–8: Advanced reasoning — complex patterns, multi-variable logic, sophisticated analogical thinking
Writing and Written Expression
Objectives
- Build from fluent self-expression to structured, sophisticated writing under time pressure
Key Activities
- Year 3–4: Frequent informal writing — journals, stories, letters — to build fluency and confidence
- Year 4–5: Introduce persuasive and narrative essay structures with gentle time constraints
- Year 5–6: Timed writing practice — 15–25 minutes — with focus on clear argument, evidence and varied sentence structure
- Year 7–8: Mature, analytical writing — sustained argument, nuanced vocabulary, sophisticated paragraphing under strict time limits
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start preparing my child for BSHS?
The ideal preparation timeline begins with enrichment activities in Year 3 and moves to structured preparation in Year 4. For the Year 5 conditional entry pathway, formal HAST-specific preparation should be well underway by the start of Year 5. For the Year 6 standard entry, preparation can begin in earnest during Year 5 Term 3 or Year 6 Term 1. The earlier you build foundational skills, the more effective targeted preparation becomes.
What is the difference between BSHS conditional and standard entry?
Conditional entry allows Year 5 students to receive an early offer for BSHS Year 7, conditional on maintaining academic performance. Standard entry is the main application round in Year 6. Both use the HAST and consider NAPLAN results and school reports. Conditional entry is competitive but gives families certainty a year earlier.
Can my child apply for both BSHS and QASMT in Year 5?
Yes, it is possible to apply for both BSHS conditional entry and QASMT Year 7 entry in Year 5, as these are separate application processes. However, check that testing dates do not conflict. Preparing for both simultaneously is manageable because the underlying skills overlap — strong reasoning, comprehension and writing serve both the HAST and EduTest.
How important are NAPLAN results for selective school entry?
NAPLAN results are an important component of selective school applications in Queensland. Both BSHS and the Queensland Academies expect applicants to demonstrate top-band performance. Strong NAPLAN results complement entrance test scores and school reports. However, NAPLAN alone is not sufficient — the entrance test is typically the primary differentiating factor.
What does the HAST test for BSHS actually assess?
The HAST (Higher Ability Selection Test) is developed by ACER and assesses aptitude rather than curriculum knowledge. It includes Reading Comprehension, Mathematical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning and Written Expression. The test identifies students with higher-order thinking abilities — the capacity to reason, infer, recognise patterns and construct arguments. It deliberately goes beyond what students learn in the standard classroom curriculum.
What does the EduTest for Queensland Academies assess?
The EduTest covers five components: Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics and Written Expression. It is designed with a high difficulty ceiling — approximately 50% completion rate is expected — to differentiate between high-ability candidates. The test spans two days for Year 7 QASMT entry and assesses both reasoning ability and academic skills.
Is it worth applying for Queensland Academies Year 10 if my child missed Year 7 entry?
Absolutely. The Year 10 entry pathway to QASMT, QACI and QAHS is a genuine opportunity, not a consolation pathway. Many students discover the Queensland Academies in high school, and others mature academically between Years 5 and 8. The Year 10 pathway also opens access to QACI (Creative Industries) and QAHS (Health Sciences), which do not offer Year 7 entry at all. Start preparation at least 9–12 months before the testing date.
How much daily study is appropriate at each year level?
In Year 3, enrichment should be woven naturally into daily life — reading, puzzles, games — without a formal study schedule. In Year 4, 20–30 minutes of structured practice beyond homework is appropriate. In Year 5 (the application year), 30–45 minutes of focused daily preparation is recommended. For Years 7–8 Queensland Academies preparation, 30–45 minutes of targeted practice alongside regular schoolwork is effective. The key is consistency over intensity — daily practice outperforms weekend cramming every time.
Will my child be disadvantaged if we start preparing in Year 5?
Starting preparation in Year 5 for Year 5 applications is late but not impossible. Students with strong natural ability and existing reading habits can make significant progress with intensive preparation. However, they will likely be competing against peers who have been building skills since Year 3 or 4. If your child is naturally high-achieving and you begin early in Year 5, focused BSHS preparation or Queensland Academies preparation can still make a meaningful difference. For Year 6 BSHS entry or Year 10 QA entry, starting a year ahead gives you the time you need.
Can preparation for one test help with another?
Yes. The skills assessed by the hast test and EduTest overlap significantly — reading comprehension, mathematical reasoning, written expression and logical thinking are core to both. Strong verbal and abstract reasoning hast test practice serves the BSHS pathway, while the same skills apply to edutest practice test sessions for QASMT and the Queensland Academies. The main difference is format familiarity, which requires targeted practice with each specific test style.
How should naplan preparation fit into the BSHS preparation timeline?
Naplan preparation should be integrated into your broader BSHS preparation timeline rather than treated as a separate activity. Since NAPLAN year 5 results directly contribute to both BSHS and QASMT applications, building strong reading, writing, and numeracy skills serves double duty. Start naplan preparation in Year 4 as part of your general skill-building, then intensify in Year 5 Term 1 before the May testing window. The reading comprehension and writing skills developed through naplan preparation transfer directly to hast test practice and edutest practice test performance.
Where can I find free hast test practice materials?
Official hast test practice materials are available through ACER's website, which provides sample questions and candidate support resources for the Higher Ability Selection Test. Beyond official resources, some education providers offer free diagnostic hast test practice papers. For comprehensive preparation, structured practice programs that include full-length timed tests are most effective. Our free mock tests cover reasoning, comprehension, and mathematics components relevant to hast test practice for BSHS entry.
What is the best edutest practice test strategy for QASMT entry?
The most effective edutest practice test strategy begins 9–12 months before the exam date and follows a phased approach. Start with a diagnostic edutest practice test to identify strengths and gaps across all five components. Then spend 3–4 months on targeted skill development in weaker areas, followed by regular full-length timed edutest practice test sessions to build stamina and time management. Since EduTest is designed for approximately 50% completion, your edutest preparation should emphasise question triage — knowing when to move on and when to persist. Practise with authentic edutest practice test materials that mirror the actual difficulty level and format used by the Queensland Academies.
Can my child still get into QASMT or a Queensland Academy if NAPLAN year 5 results are not top-band?
While strong NAPLAN year 5 results are expected for competitive applicants, the Queensland Academies consider a holistic profile — entrance test scores, school reports, and NAPLAN results together. Exceptional performance on the edutest practice test (and ultimately the actual EduTest) can partially offset NAPLAN results that fall slightly below top-band. However, applicants with consistently top-band NAPLAN year 5 results across all domains have a clear advantage. If your child's NAPLAN year 5 results were not as strong as hoped, focus on intensive edutest preparation and ensure school reports demonstrate strong academic engagement — then consider the Year 10 Queensland Academies pathway as an additional opportunity.
Structured preparation courses covering HAST and EduTest components — Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics and Writing — designed to build the skills Queensland selective schools are looking for.
Start Your Queensland Selective School Preparation
View All Courses
- ✓20 Reading Comprehension Tests
- ✓30 Mathematical Reasoning Tests with video explanations
- ✓30 Thinking Skills Tests with video explanations
- ✓50 Writing Prompts with expert feedback
- ✓100+ Non-Verbal Reasoning Lessons
- ✓150+ Daily Paragraph Editing Exercises
- ✓Foundation + Advanced Vocabulary Courses
- ✓50 Poetry-Based Comprehension Tests
- ✓AI-powered Writing Assessment Tool
- ✓180/365 Days of Unlimited Access
- ✓Detailed explanations for every question
- ✓Full preparation in one pack

- ✓400+ practice tests, lessons, and exercises
- ✓30+ Reading Comprehension tests
- ✓5 Mathematical Reasoning tests
- ✓5 Numerical Reasoning tests
- ✓3 Verbal Reasoning tests
- ✓20 Writing tasks with solutions & feedback
- ✓Foundation + Advanced Vocabulary Courses
- ✓Verbal Reasoning Mastery Course
- ✓50 Poetry-based comprehension tests
- ✓150+ Daily Paragraph Editing exercises
- ✓180/365 Days of Unlimited Access
- ✓Detailed explanations for every question
- ✓Email support

- ✓400+ practice tests, lessons, and exercises
- ✓30+ Reading Comprehension tests
- ✓5 Mathematical Reasoning tests
- ✓5 Numerical Reasoning tests
- ✓3 Verbal Reasoning tests
- ✓20 Writing tasks with solutions & feedback
- ✓Foundation + Advanced Vocabulary Courses
- ✓Verbal Reasoning Mastery Course
- ✓50 Poetry-based comprehension tests
- ✓150+ Daily Paragraph Editing exercises
- ✓180/365 Days of Unlimited Access
- ✓Detailed explanations for every question
- ✓Email support

- ✓30+ Reading Comprehension tests
- ✓5 Mathematical Reasoning tests
- ✓5 Numerical Reasoning tests
- ✓3 Verbal Reasoning tests
- ✓20 Writing tasks with solutions & feedback
- ✓Verbal Reasoning Mastery Course
- ✓180/365 Days of Unlimited Access
- ✓Detailed explanations for every question
- ✓Email support

- ✓38 Expert Writing Prompts
- ✓Aligned with the NSW Selective exam writing format
- ✓20 advanced writing tasks with Band 6 model samples and detailed scaffolds
- ✓18 narrative writing prompts with high-scoring exemplars
- ✓Foundation + Advanced Vocabulary Courses
- ✓AI-powered Writing Assessment Tool
- ✓180 Days of Unlimited Access
- ✓Detailed explanations for every question

- ✓Includes 50 practice tests with detailed, step-by-step solutions
- ✓Master poetic devices, literary techniques, and figurative language
- ✓Analyse unseen poems with confidence and precision
- ✓Tackle a wide range of question types from major exams
- ✓Develop critical thinking and analytical skills for top marks
- ✓Perfect for OC, Selective, HAST, and Scholarship exam preparation
- ✓Build a strong foundation for advanced English studies
- ✓90 days of unlimited access to all resources
- ✓50+ Poetry comprehension lessons
- ✓Practice with real exam poems
- ✓Detailed explanations
- ✓Self-paced
- ✓Email support

- ✓20 Expert Writing Prompts
- ✓Aligned with the NSW Selective exam writing format
- ✓20 advanced writing tasks with Band 6 model samples and detailed scaffolds
- ✓Foundation + Advanced Vocabulary Courses
- ✓AI-powered Writing Assessment Tool
- ✓180/365 Days of Unlimited Access
- ✓Detailed explanations for every question

- ✓10 Expert Writing Prompts
- ✓Aligned with the NSW Selective exam writing format
- ✓10 advanced writing tasks with Band 6 model samples and detailed scaffolds
- ✓Foundation + Advanced Vocabulary Courses
- ✓AI-powered Writing Assessment Tool
- ✓180/365 Days of Unlimited Access
- ✓Detailed explanations for every question

- ✓10 Thinking Skills tests with video explanations
- ✓10 Mathematical Reasoning tests with video explanations
- ✓10 Reading tests
- ✓10 Writing Prompts with expert feedback
- ✓Foundation + Advanced Vocabulary Courses
- ✓100+ Vocabulary Tests + 200-word Vocabulary Mastery Course with sentence usage & quizzes
- ✓180 Days of Unlimited Access
- ✓Detailed explanations for every question

- ✓5 Reading Comprehension tests
- ✓5 Mathematical Reasoning tests
- ✓5 Numerical Reasoning tests
- ✓3 Verbal Reasoning tests
- ✓5 Writing tasks with detailed solutions & feedback
- ✓Vocabulary Mastery resources
- ✓180 days unlimited access
- ✓Priority email support

- ✓5 Thinking Skills tests with video explanations
- ✓5 Mathematical Reasoning tests with video explanations
- ✓5 Reading tests
- ✓Detailed explanations and model answers for every question
- ✓Full-length mock tests with instant scoring & progress tracking
- ✓90 days of unlimited access to all resources

- ✓Access 95 solved non-verbal reasoning test papers online
- ✓Expert-designed questions mirroring real exam challenges
- ✓Covers 14 key topics including analogies, matrices, and 3D shapes
- ✓Practice over 1,900 questions with detailed answers
- ✓Boost exam speed, accuracy, and time management skills
- ✓Suitable for all major selective school and scholarship exams in Australia
- ✓Online platform to track progress and review performance
- ✓90 days of unlimited access to all resources

- ✓Foundation + Advanced Vocabulary Courses
- ✓50+ targeted, topic-wise vocabulary practice test sets
- ✓1,000+ high-impact, exam-relevant words with contextual sentences and model usage
- ✓Multiple formats: multiple-choice, sentence application, usage tasks
- ✓Detailed answers, explanations, and progress tracking
- ✓Enhances comprehension and precise word use
- ✓Improves persuasive and creative writing expression
- ✓90 days of unlimited access to all resources

- ✓18 narrative writing prompts across genres like mystery, suspense, and fantasy
- ✓Learn key storytelling techniques to build tension
- ✓Flexible and self-paced, perfect for busy students
- ✓Ideal for creative writing exams and competitions
- ✓Engaging exercises to expand writing abilities
- ✓Expert-led lessons to guide you step-by-step
- ✓Receive personalised feedback, sample responses, and vocabulary usage examples to refine your skills
- ✓Comprehensive curriculum for all skill levels
- ✓180 days of unlimited access to all resources

- ✓Foundation + Advanced Vocabulary Courses
- ✓50+ targeted, topic-wise vocabulary practice test sets
- ✓1,000+ high-impact, exam-relevant words with contextual sentences and model usage
- ✓Multiple formats: multiple-choice, sentence application, usage tasks
- ✓Detailed answers, explanations, and progress tracking
- ✓Enhances comprehension and precise word use
- ✓Improves persuasive and creative writing expression
- ✓90 days of unlimited access to all resources
- ✓200+ Vocabulary Words
- ✓Sentence Usage & Quizzes
- ✓Self-paced Learning
- ✓Lifetime Access
- ✓Email Support

- ✓3 Reading Comprehension tests
- ✓3 Mathematical Reasoning tests
- ✓3 Numerical Reasoning tests
- ✓3 Verbal Reasoning tests
- ✓Detailed explanations for every question
- ✓Performance analytics and progress tracking
- ✓90 days unlimited access
- ✓Email support

- ✓60+ Verbal Reasoning lessons
- ✓Pattern, analogy, and logic mastery
- ✓Timed practice sets
- ✓Detailed explanations
- ✓Self-paced
- ✓Email support
Queensland Selective School Resources
Helpful guides and tools to support your preparation journey
BSHS Selective Exam Preparation
Comprehensive preparation for Brisbane State High School entry — covering all HAST components with expert guidance.
Access ResourceQueensland Academies Preparation
Full EduTest preparation for QASMT, QACI and QAHS — Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Reading, Maths and Writing.
Access ResourceBSHS Preparation Strategies
Proven strategies for HAST success — aptitude-based preparation that targets higher-order thinking skills.
Access ResourceQueensland Academies Preparation Strategies
Expert strategies for EduTest success — time management, question triage and component-specific techniques.
Access ResourceFree Mock Tests
Try a free practice test to benchmark your child's current ability and identify areas for focused improvement.
Access ResourceFree Competitive Exam Welcome Pack
Download free resources to get started with selective school preparation — sample questions, guides and tips.
Access ResourceRelated Guides
Last updated: 6 February 2026

