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Complete breakdown of all 5 test sections, timing, scoring methodology, and what to expect for NSW selective school entry
The Edutest exam is a comprehensive 150-minute assessment used by 15+ NSW selective schools including James Ruse, Baulkham Hills, North Sydney Boys/Girls, and Sydney Girls High for Years 8-11 entry. The computer-based test evaluates five distinct cognitive and academic abilities.
Test Duration: 150 minutes (2.5 hours) plus breaks
Five Main Sections: Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Reading, Mathematics, Written Expression
Computer-Based: Students complete all sections on computer
No Calculators: All mathematical work done mentally or on scratch paper
Administered by Edutest (contracted by NSW selective schools)
Adaptive Difficulty: Questions adjust based on student performance
Comprehensive breakdown of each component with strategies and common mistakes
Assesses advanced vocabulary, word relationships, analogies, and language logic skills.
Tests pattern recognition, number sequences, and logical thinking with numbers - goes beyond standard mathematics.
Advanced reading analysis across multiple text types: literature, science, history, persuasive writing.
Problem-solving across all strands: number, algebra, measurement, geometry, statistics, probability.
Creative and persuasive writing demonstrating vocabulary, grammar, structure, and engaging storytelling.
Edutest uses a standardized scoring system that allows fair comparison across all students and years.
Each section is scored based on correct answers. Written Expression scored by trained markers using rubric (0-4 scale per criterion).
Raw scores converted to standardized scores (mean=100, SD=15) for each of the 5 sections.
All 5 components weighted equally: Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Reading, Mathematics, Written Expression.
Five standardized scores averaged to produce overall Edutest score (scale typically 60-140).
Each selective school sets own cut-off score. James Ruse highest (typically 130+), varies by school demand.
Excellent chance at James Ruse, Baulkham Hills, North Sydney Boys/Girls
Schools: James Ruse, Baulkham Hills
Competitive for all NSW selective schools
Schools: North Sydney Boys/Girls, Sydney Girls, Sydney Boys
Good chance at most selective schools
Schools: Most NSW selective schools
Competitive for some schools depending on demand
Schools: Varies by school and year
Less competitive for selective entry
Schools: Limited options
Typical schedule for Edutest administration at NSW selective schools.
Students arrive, present ID, sign in. Parents wait in designated areas or leave.
Students directed to testing rooms, assigned computer stations, receive instructions.
Brief tutorial on how to navigate computer test, practice questions.
30 minutes - Analogies, classifications, word relationships.
10-minute break - restroom, water (no phones or discussion of test).
30 minutes - Number patterns, sequences, logical problems.
10-minute break.
30 minutes - Multiple passages with comprehension questions.
10-minute break.
30 minutes - Problem-solving across all math strands.
10-minute break before final writing section.
30 minutes - 1-2 writing tasks (creative/persuasive).
Students submit test, collect belongings, dismissed to parents.
Now that you understand the test format, explore our preparation strategies and practice resources.