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Comprehensive answers to 40+ frequently asked questions about Brisbane State High School selective entry and the HAST exam
Brisbane State High School is Queensland's premier partially selective public high school, established in 1921. It consistently ranks in the top 10 Queensland schools, produced more 99.95 ATAR scores than any Australian school in 2023, and offers selective academic entry through the HAST exam for Years 7-12.
The Higher Ability Selection Test (HAST) is administered by ACER (Australian Council for Educational Research). Year 5 students take HAST-P (110 min, 3 sections), Year 6 students take HAST (140 min, 4 sections including Abstract Reasoning). It measures academic potential, not just achievement.
Students can sit HAST in either Year 5 or Year 6. Year 5 conditional entry provides early certainty and reduces Year 6 pressure. If unsuccessful in Year 5, students can reapply in Year 6. Applications typically open early in the year and close mid-June, with testing in late July.
Recommended: 9-12 months for above-average students, 6-9 months for high-achieving students (consistently top 10%). Consistent weekly practice (4-6 hours) yields better results than cramming. Start preparation early in Year 4 if applying for Year 5 entry.
Official ACER practice tests, HAST-specific prep books (Scholarly, Hendersons), abstract reasoning workbooks, advanced reading materials, mental math practice, and writing practice. Our comprehensive BSHS prep program includes all materials plus expert coaching.