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HAST Test Format
Master the HAST test format with our complete breakdown of all three components: Abstract Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Skills.
Everything you need to know about the Higher Ability Selection Test (HAST) for private school entry. Our comprehensive guide covers test format, preparation strategies, and success tips from our expert tutors who have helped 2,000+ students achieve their private school dreams.
Familiarity with HAST structure, timing, and question types is crucial for success. Students who understand what to expect perform significantly better.
HAST heavily emphasizes abstract reasoning skills. Students who develop strong pattern recognition and logical thinking abilities excel in this test.
With strict time limits, efficient time management is essential. Students must learn to pace themselves across all sections.
Consistent practice with HAST-specific materials and mock tests builds confidence and improves performance across all sections.
Comprehensive overview of the Higher Ability Selection Test (HAST) format, including all test sections, timing, and assessment criteria. Understand what your child will face and how to prepare effectively.
Designed for entry into Years 5 & 6
Multiple choice
This test measures how well students can understand and interpret ideas in language. The test asks students to look at written and visual material which may include fiction, poetry or non-fiction prose, and diagrams, tables, charts or maps.
Multiple choice
This test measures mathematical ability, in contrast to a test of school achievement in mathematics. Consequently, the material used for the questions in this test is selected from a wide variety of sources, and may differ from standard school-based curriculum materials.
Written task
This test assesses a student's ability to express thoughts and feelings in written English. Assessment is based on quality of thought and quality of language. The test provides a measure of generative and creative thinking in addition to language competency.
Multiple choice
This test assesses students' ability to recognise relationships and perceive ideas at an abstract level using pattern recognition, hypothesising and evaluation of evidence. These types of skills are widely applicable across the curriculum and are related to successful academic outcomes.
Designed for entry into Years 7 to 11
Multiple choice
This test assesses a student's ability to understand and interpret a range of texts which may include fiction, poetry, drama and non-fiction prose, together with diagrams, tables, charts or maps.
Multiple choice
This test assesses a student's ability to comprehend, interpret and analyse mathematical information (at the junior secondary level), and mathematics and science at the middle and senior secondary levels.
Written task
This test assesses a student's ability to express thoughts and feelings in written English. Assessment is based on thought and content, structure and organisation, expression, style and the mechanics of the candidate's response.
Multiple choice
This test assesses students' ability to recognise relationships and perceive ideas at an abstract level using pattern recognition, hypothesising and evaluation of evidence.
Key differences between test levels
| Test Section | Primary (Years 5-6) | Secondary (Years 7-11) |
|---|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | 30-40 minutes 25-30 questions Basic text interpretation | 45 minutes 35-40 questions Complex analysis required |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 30-40 minutes 25-30 questions Basic math concepts | 40 minutes 28-35 questions Includes science content* |
| Written Expression | 30 minutes 1 task Basic writing skills | 25 minutes 1 task Advanced writing skills |
| Abstract Reasoning | 30 minutes 30 questions Basic patterns | 30 minutes 30 questions Complex patterns |
| Total Duration | ~2 hours (4 tests) | ~2.5 hours (4 tests) |
Schools can choose from different test package options
Complete 4-test package for comprehensive assessment
Streamlined 3-test package focusing on core skills
Complete 4-test package for comprehensive assessment
Streamlined 3-test package focusing on core skills
Multiple choice only package for objective assessment
Understanding how HAST tests are marked and reported
Machine scored for accurate and consistent results
Assessed by two independent markers with third discrepancy marking if there is a difference of more than two raw score points between the markers
The individual report charts each student's performance in terms of percentages of standardised scores. An individual's score is compared to the scores recorded in the reference group who sat the test and then ranked within different percentage levels of performance.
HAST results are reported relative to a reference group of Australian students who recently sat these tests as part of a gifted and talented program selection process. As such, scores from these tests may reflect a candidate population of above-average ability rather than the range of ability found in the general population.
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