Brisbane State High School is Queensland's premier selective institution, established in 1921 as the state's first secondary school. It's a Great Public Schools Association member with exceptional academic outcomes - 2023 produced more 99.95 ATAR scores than any Australian school. Nearly 95% of students achieve OP 1-15 rankings, placing them in Queensland's top 30% academically.

BSHS offers two entry pathways: Year 5 Conditional Entry and Year 6 Direct Entry. Year 5 students take the HAST-P (110 minutes, 3 sections) for conditional entry, securing their place early but must maintain standards through Year 6. Year 6 students take the full HAST (140 minutes, 4 sections including Abstract Reasoning) for direct entry with immediate confirmation.

The Aspire Program is Brisbane State High School's academic excellence initiative available to motivated students in Years 7-8, regardless of enrollment category. It focuses on higher-order thinking in English, Humanities, Mathematics, Science, and Engineering, emphasizing problem-solving and critical thinking to prepare students for advanced senior study.

For Year 7, 2027 entry: Applications opened in early 2025 and CLOSED on Monday, June 16, 2025, with testing completed on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. For Year 7, 2028 entry, applications typically open in early 2026 and close in mid-2026. Families must verify current dates directly with Brisbane State High School as timelines may vary.

The application processing fee is $420, which must be paid through the Qkr! app with evidence of payment submitted alongside applications. This substantial fee reflects the comprehensive assessment process and competitive nature of entry to Queensland's premier selective school.

Required documentation includes: completed Selective Entry Online Application Forms, Student Summary sheets, three semesters of school reports, current and Year 5 NAPLAN results, Photo Identification Forms, and evidence of $420 processing fee payment through Qkr! app. Incomplete applications cannot be processed.

HAST (Higher Ability Selection Test) by ACER has different formats: Year 5 HAST-P (110 minutes): Reading Comprehension (35 min), Mathematical Reasoning (35 min), Written Expression (30 min). Year 6 HAST (140 minutes): adds Abstract Reasoning (30 questions, 40 min). The test measures academic ability through higher-order thinking skills.

Brisbane State High School uses the HAST (Higher Ability Selection Test) administered by ACER, NOT Edutest. This is different from Queensland Academies which use Edutest. HAST focuses on higher-order thinking skills including Reading Comprehension, Mathematical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning (Year 6), and Written Expression.

No, calculators are NOT permitted during the HAST Mathematical Reasoning section. Students must complete all 35 mathematical reasoning questions using mental math and written calculations only. This tests genuine mathematical thinking and problem-solving abilities rather than computational skills.

Recommended preparation timeline: Year 5 students should begin 6 months before testing for conditional entry. Year 6 students require intensive preparation 3-4 months beforehand for direct entry. Regular practice through 10-15 full-length practice tests helps familiarize students with test format and time management requirements.

Year 5 preparation focuses on HAST-P format (3 sections, 110 minutes) without Abstract Reasoning. Year 6 preparation includes the full HAST (4 sections, 140 minutes) with Abstract Reasoning component. Year 6 preparation is more intensive and comprehensive, while Year 5 offers early entry advantage with continued development through Year 6.

Mock examinations are crucial for HAST success. They familiarize students with test format, timing, and computer-based testing environment. Regular full-length practice tests help develop time management skills, reduce test anxiety, and identify areas needing improvement. Students should complete 10-15 mock exams before the actual test.

Primary selection criterion is HAST test performance with students ranked in order of merit. Only those achieving above the cut-off score progress to further assessment. Additional factors include consistent academic excellence in school reports, demonstrated excellence in behavior and effort, and strong attendance records. Face-to-face enrollment interviews are conducted for selected students.

Brisbane State High School is highly competitive with typically only 5-10% of applicants gaining entry. The school maintains exceptional academic standards and limited places available. Success depends on achieving high HAST scores, excellent school reports, and meeting all application requirements. Professional preparation significantly improves chances of success.

Brisbane State High School maintains exceptional academic standards requiring students to sustain excellence across all subjects while actively participating in school community. The competitive peer environment challenges students to maintain high performance. Over 35 senior subjects are available including specialized areas like Film & Television, Digital Solutions, and multiple languages.

Brisbane State High School graduates achieve exceptional university admission rates with access to premium courses at leading universities. The school's 2023 achievement of producing more 99.95 ATAR scores than any Australian school demonstrates outstanding preparation for tertiary education. International Baccalaureate recognition facilitates global university applications.

Professional HAST coaching provides specialized expertise in Queensland's selective education landscape, individualized assessment identifying strengths and improvement areas, systematic preparation programs aligned with HAST requirements, and ongoing support throughout application processes. Our program achieves 95% success rate for Brisbane State High School entry.

Excellent alternatives include Programs of Excellence at comprehensive schools like Indooroopilly State High, academic acceleration programs, specialized streams in STEM or languages, and strong comprehensive schools with gifted programs. Many students achieve exceptional outcomes through various educational pathways with quality instruction and family support.