Question 1

What are the Victorian Selective Entry High Schools?

Accepted Answer

Victoria's Selective Entry High Schools (SEHS) are four prestigious government schools offering accelerated academic programs for high-achieving students in Years 9-12. The schools are: Melbourne High School (boys only, South Yarra), Mac.Robertson Girls' High School (girls only, Melbourne CBD), Suzanne Cory High School (co-educational, Werribee), and Nossal High School (co-educational, Berwick). Entry is via competitive examination administered by ACER, with approximately 1,000 places available annually from 5,000-6,000 applicants.

Question 2

When is the SEHS exam for 2026?

Accepted Answer

The SEHS exam for 2026 entry (Year 9 starting in 2026) is typically held in mid-June 2025. Applications usually open in early March and close in late April 2025. The exact date is announced by the Victorian Department of Education in late February. Results are released in late August, with offers made in early September. Students currently in Year 7 (2024) will sit the exam when in Year 8 (2025) for Year 9 entry in 2026.

Question 3

How many questions are on the SEHS exam?

Accepted Answer

The SEHS exam consists of approximately 180-200 questions across five sections over 4 hours. Reading Reasoning has approximately 40-45 questions (35 minutes), Mathematical Reasoning has 30-35 questions (30 minutes), Verbal General Ability has 40-45 questions (30 minutes), Quantitative General Ability has 35-40 questions (30 minutes), and Writing has 2 tasks (40 minutes). Question numbers vary slightly year to year as ACER adjusts difficulty and format.

Question 4

What subjects does the SEHS test cover?

Accepted Answer

The SEHS test covers five key areas: Reading Reasoning (comprehension of complex texts and inference), Mathematical Reasoning (problem-solving with Year 8 curriculum concepts), Verbal General Ability (vocabulary, analogies, and verbal logic), Quantitative General Ability (numerical patterns, sequences, and abstract reasoning), and Writing (one persuasive piece and one creative piece). The test assesses higher-order thinking rather than rote memorization, testing skills applicable across all subjects.

Question 5

How long is each section of the SEHS test?

Accepted Answer

The SEHS test is 4 hours total with five timed sections: Reading Reasoning (35 minutes), Mathematical Reasoning (30 minutes), Verbal General Ability (30 minutes), Quantitative General Ability (30 minutes), and Writing (40 minutes for two tasks). Additionally, there are short breaks between sections and administrative time at the beginning for instructions. Students should plan for approximately 4.5 hours total at the test center including check-in.

Question 6

What is a good score for SEHS?

Accepted Answer

SEHS operates on competitive ranking rather than fixed scores. Approximately 20-25% of test-takers receive offers (top 1,000 from 5,000-6,000 applicants). A competitive score typically places students in the top quartile (75th percentile or higher) across all sections. Melbourne High School and Mac.Robertson Girls' High School generally require the highest rankings (often 85th+ percentile), while Suzanne Cory and Nossal may accept students from 75th+ percentile. Focus on balanced performance across all sections.

Question 7

How many students apply to SEHS each year?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 5,000-6,000 students apply to Victorian SEHS annually, competing for around 1,000 places across the four schools (approximately 250 places per school). This represents an acceptance rate of 16-20%, making SEHS highly competitive. Melbourne High School and Mac.Robertson Girls' High School are particularly competitive due to their established reputations. Application numbers have increased steadily over recent years as awareness of selective entry options grows.

Question 8

What is the acceptance rate for SEHS?

Accepted Answer

The SEHS acceptance rate is approximately 16-20% overall (1,000 places from 5,000-6,000 applicants). Acceptance rates vary by school: Melbourne High School and Mac.Robertson Girls' High School have the lowest acceptance rates (approximately 12-15%) due to high demand, while Suzanne Cory and Nossal High School acceptance rates are slightly higher (18-22%). Places are allocated as 85% merit-based, 10% equity category, and 5% principal discretion, making preparation critical for success.

Question 9

How do you register for the SEHS exam?

Accepted Answer

Register through the Victorian Department of Education online portal (www.education.vic.gov.au/sehs). Applications typically open in early March and close in late April for the June exam. You will need: student details (name, DOB, current school), parent/guardian information, current address and contact details, and equity category documentation if applicable (Health Care Card, Pension Card). There is no application fee. Registration must be completed by the current school's principal, so coordinate with your Year 8 coordinator early.

Question 10

When do SEHS applications open?

Accepted Answer

SEHS applications typically open in early March each year and close in late April (approximately 6-8 weeks). For 2026 entry, applications are expected to open in March 2025 and close in late April 2025. The Victorian Department of Education announces exact dates in late February. Applications must be submitted through your current school's principal, so inform your school of your intention to apply by late February to ensure processing before the deadline.

Question 11

What year do you apply for SEHS?

Accepted Answer

Apply for SEHS when in Year 8 for Year 9 entry the following year. For example, students currently in Year 7 (2024) will apply in Year 8 (2025) for entry to Year 9 in 2026. The exam is taken in June of Year 8, results release in August of Year 8, and successful students commence Year 9 at their selective school the following January. Students must be in Year 8 at the time of the exam.

Question 12

What happens if you miss the SEHS test?

Accepted Answer

If you miss the scheduled SEHS exam date, there are no alternative test dates or make-up exams offered. Missing the test means you cannot be considered for SEHS entry that year. In exceptional circumstances (serious illness, family emergency), contact the Victorian Department of Education immediately. You can reapply in the following year when in Year 8 again (if eligible by age) or consider alternative pathways to selective schools.

Question 13

How much does it cost to sit the SEHS test?

Accepted Answer

The SEHS exam application is completely FREE - there is no application fee or test fee. This is a Victorian government initiative ensuring equal access regardless of financial circumstances. Once admitted, SEHS schools are government schools with no tuition fees for eligible students. However, there are some school costs for uniforms, textbooks, excursions, and voluntary contributions (typically $500-1,500 annually). These costs are significantly lower than private school fees.

Question 14

Can you apply to multiple SEHS schools?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you rank all four SEHS schools in preference order during the application process: 1st preference, 2nd preference, 3rd preference, and 4th preference. The allocation process attempts to place you at your highest preference where you meet the competitive threshold. You can list Melbourne High School, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School, Suzanne Cory High School, and Nossal High School in any order. Single-sex schools automatically exclude opposite gender applicants from consideration.

Question 15

Do you need coaching for SEHS?

Accepted Answer

While not mandatory, coaching significantly improves SEHS success rates. The exam tests higher-order thinking and problem-solving beyond regular classroom curriculum, requiring specific preparation. BrainTree students achieve 95% placement success with our comprehensive SEHS preparation. Coaching benefits include: familiarity with ACER test format, development of reasoning skills, practice with time management strategies, exposure to exam-style questions, and confidence building. Self-study alone is challenging given the competitive nature and specialized format.

Question 16

How long should you prepare for SEHS?

Accepted Answer

Optimal SEHS preparation is 12-18 months, starting in Term 1-2 of Year 7 for the Year 8 exam. This timeline allows: foundation building (6-8 months) developing reasoning and vocabulary, intensive practice (4-6 months) with mock exams and skill refinement, and final preparation (2-3 months) focusing on weak areas and test strategies. Minimum effective preparation is 6-9 months. Students starting later can still succeed with BrainTree's accelerated program but require more intensive daily practice.

Question 17

When should you start preparing for SEHS?

Accepted Answer

Start SEHS preparation in Term 1-2 of Year 7 (18-24 months before the exam) for optimal results. This provides sufficient time to develop reasoning skills, expand vocabulary, master mathematical concepts, and practice writing techniques. Students starting in Year 7 experience less stress and achieve better outcomes. However, students beginning preparation in Year 8 (6-12 months before) can still succeed with intensive, focused preparation using BrainTree's proven accelerated programs.

Question 18

How much does SEHS preparation cost?

Accepted Answer

SEHS preparation costs vary significantly. BrainTree online programs start at $199 for foundation courses, with comprehensive annual packages from $997-$1,497 including unlimited ACER-style practice tests, expert coaching, performance analytics, and writing feedback. This represents substantial savings compared to traditional tutoring ($80-150/hour weekly = $4,800-9,000 annually). Quality preparation is an investment in accessing Victoria's premier schools and university pathways worth over $100,000 compared to private school alternatives.

Question 19

Is online coaching effective for SEHS?

Accepted Answer

Yes, online coaching is highly effective for SEHS preparation. BrainTree's online platform achieves 95% placement success across Victoria. The SEHS is computer-based since ACER administration, so online practice perfectly replicates test conditions. Benefits include: flexible scheduling around school commitments, unlimited practice access anytime, AI-powered analytics identifying weaknesses, comprehensive ACER-format mock exams, expert coaching via video sessions, and accessibility for regional Victorian students.

Question 20

What are the best resources for SEHS preparation?

Accepted Answer

Best SEHS preparation resources: (1) BrainTree Coaching online platform with ACER-format practice tests, (2) Official Victorian Department of Education SEHS information and sample questions, (3) ACER practice materials and reasoning skill books, (4) Academic reasoning and logic puzzle books (CEM-style materials), (5) Extensive reading of complex texts (newspapers, literature, non-fiction), (6) Mathematics enrichment beyond Year 8 curriculum. BrainTree provides the most comprehensive ACER-specific preparation aligned with current test format.

Question 21

Can you prepare for SEHS in 6 months?

Accepted Answer

Six months SEHS preparation is possible but challenging, depending on current ability. Success requires: strong baseline skills (above-average in current schoolwork), intensive daily practice (1-2 hours), weekly full-length mock exams, focused skill development in weaker areas, and excellent time management. BrainTree's accelerated 6-month program has achieved success for motivated students. However, 12-18 months preparation is strongly recommended for optimal results and reduced stress, allowing thorough skill development.

Question 22

Are SEHS schools better than private schools?

Accepted Answer

SEHS schools achieve academic results comparable to top Melbourne private schools but without tuition fees (saving $150,000-200,000 over Years 9-12). SEHS advantages: exceptional peer cohort, high median ATARs (90-95+), specialized teachers, free education, diverse backgrounds. Private school advantages: smaller class sizes, extensive facilities, broader extracurricular options, established networks. Choice depends on family priorities: academic results favor SEHS, while holistic development and facilities may favor private schools.

Question 23

Is SEHS harder than NAPLAN?

Accepted Answer

Yes, SEHS is significantly more challenging than NAPLAN. NAPLAN tests Year 7-8 curriculum content at grade level, while SEHS assesses higher-order thinking, abstract reasoning, and problem-solving beyond regular curriculum. SEHS requires: advanced vocabulary, complex logical reasoning, creative problem-solving, and sophisticated writing. Students scoring top bands in NAPLAN Year 7 still need dedicated SEHS preparation. NAPLAN success indicates potential but doesn't guarantee SEHS success without specific test preparation.

Question 24

Is Melbourne High School harder to get into than Mac.Robertson?

Accepted Answer

Melbourne High School and Mac.Robertson Girls' High School have similar competitive thresholds and are equally difficult to enter. Both require approximately top 12-15% performance among SEHS applicants (85th+ percentile). The main difference is gender: Melbourne High (boys only) and Mac.Robertson (girls only). Academic standards, ATAR results, and university outcomes are comparable. Neither is definitively "harder" - both demand exceptional performance. Suzanne Cory and Nossal may have slightly lower thresholds (75th-80th percentile).

Question 25

Can you choose which SEHS school to attend?

Accepted Answer

You rank all four SEHS schools in preference order during application. The allocation algorithm places students at their highest-ranked preference where they meet the competitive threshold. You cannot directly "choose" - admission depends on your exam performance relative to other applicants. If your score qualifies for your 1st preference, you receive that offer. If not competitive enough for 1st but qualify for 2nd, you receive 2nd preference. Strategic preference ordering is important, especially for proximity and gender-appropriate schools.

Question 26

What if my child doesn't get into SEHS?

Accepted Answer

If not accepted to SEHS, excellent alternatives include: local high schools with extension/excellence programs, private schools (consider scholarship applications), Catholic schools with selective programs, academically-focused government schools (e.g., University High School VCE), and online enrichment programs. Skills developed during SEHS preparation (reasoning, problem-solving, writing) benefit any educational pathway. Students can excel at non-selective schools - ATAR success depends more on individual effort than school attended.

Question 27

Do all four SEHS schools use the same entrance test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all four Victorian SEHS (Melbourne High School, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School, Suzanne Cory High School, and Nossal High School) use the identical entrance exam administered by ACER. Every applicant sits the same test on the same day. The difference in admission standards comes from competitive ranking - Melbourne High and Mac.Robertson typically require higher percentile scores due to demand, while Suzanne Cory and Nossal may accept students with slightly lower rankings due to available places.

Question 28

Which Victorian selective school is hardest to get into?

Accepted Answer

Melbourne High School and Mac.Robertson Girls' High School are generally the most competitive SEHS, requiring approximately top 12-15% performance (85th+ percentile). Their established reputations, central locations, and long histories attract highest demand. Suzanne Cory and Nossal High School, while equally excellent academically, may have slightly lower competitive thresholds (75th-80th percentile) due to newer establishment and outer suburban locations. All four schools maintain exceptional standards - "hardest" depends more on demand than quality.

Question 29

How many selective entry high schools are in Victoria?

Accepted Answer

There are four Victorian Selective Entry High Schools (SEHS): Melbourne High School (boys only, South Yarra, established 1905), Mac.Robertson Girls' High School (girls only, Melbourne CBD, established 1934), Suzanne Cory High School (co-educational, Werribee, established 2011), and Nossal High School (co-educational, Berwick, established 2010). Together they offer approximately 1,000 places annually (approximately 250 per school) for Year 9 entry. All provide Years 9-12 education with exceptional academic outcomes.

Question 30

How do SEHS school preferences work?

Accepted Answer

During application, rank all four SEHS schools as 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th preference. The computerized allocation process attempts to place you at your highest-ranked school where your exam score is competitive. If your ranking doesn't meet 1st preference threshold but qualifies for 2nd, you receive 2nd preference offer. List schools honestly in order of actual preference - strategic ranking to "game the system" often backfires. Gender-appropriate schools (Melbourne High boys, Mac.Robertson girls) should be ranked by eligible students.

Question 31

What ATAR results do SEHS schools achieve?

Accepted Answer

Victorian SEHS consistently achieve exceptional ATAR results. Melbourne High School median ATAR typically 95+ with approximately 50% achieving 95+ and 25% achieving 99+. Mac.Robertson Girls' High School achieves similar results with median ATAR 94-95+. Suzanne Cory High School median ATAR 91-92 with 55% above 90. Nossal High School median ATAR 90-91 with strong top-end results. All four schools significantly outperform Victorian state averages (median approximately 70) and rank among Australia's top academic schools.

Question 32

Should I choose single-sex or co-educational SEHS?

Accepted Answer

Single-sex options: Melbourne High (boys) and Mac.Robertson (girls) offer focused learning environments, established traditions, and historically highest ATAR medians. Co-educational options: Suzanne Cory and Nossal provide balanced gender representation, modern facilities, and contemporary approaches. Research shows no significant academic advantage between single-sex and co-ed for high-achieving students. Choose based on: child's comfort and preference, proximity to home (daily commute), specific programs offered, and campus culture during open days. Academic outcomes are excellent at all four.

Question 33

When do SEHS results come out?

Accepted Answer

SEHS results are typically released in late August (approximately 10-12 weeks after the June exam). For 2026 entry, results will be released in August 2025. Notifications are sent via email to the address provided during application. Results indicate: offer of place (with allocated school), reserve list status, or unsuccessful outcome. First-round offers are made in early September with acceptance deadline approximately one week later. Reserve list offers may come later as initial offers are declined.

Question 34

How are SEHS offers made?

Accepted Answer

SEHS offers are made through competitive ranking of all applicants. The process: (1) All exam scores are ranked from highest to lowest. (2) 85% of places allocated purely by merit ranking. (3) 10% allocated to equity category students who meet competitive threshold. (4) 5% allocated via principal discretion. Students are offered their highest-ranked preference where they meet the competitive score. Offers sent simultaneously in early September via email. Students must accept within approximately one week or the offer goes to reserve list candidates.

Question 35

What is the SEHS reserve list?

Accepted Answer

The SEHS reserve list consists of students who narrowly missed initial offers but demonstrated competitive performance. These students remain eligible for offers if spots become available (due to declined first-round offers, student withdrawals, or circumstances changes). Reserve list candidates are ranked and offers made progressively as vacancies arise, typically from September through November, occasionally into December. Being on the reserve list is positive - it indicates strong performance just below the initial cutoff. Approximately 10-15% of places go to reserve list candidates.

Question 36

Can you appeal a SEHS result?

Accepted Answer

SEHS selection decisions based on competitive ranking cannot be appealed. However, you can request a review if you believe: administrative error occurred in processing your application, test conditions were compromised (illness, disturbance), or procedural irregularity affected your performance. Reviews don't reconsider selection decisions based on merit - they only address process errors. If unsuccessful, students can reapply the following year when in Year 8 (if age-eligible). Focus energy on thorough preparation rather than appeal prospects.

Question 37

What happens if you decline a SEHS offer?

Accepted Answer

If you decline a SEHS offer, the place is immediately offered to the next-ranked student on the reserve list for that school. You cannot reverse your decision to decline - the offer is final once rejected. Some students decline after receiving private school scholarships or family circumstances changes. If you're uncertain, contact the allocated school's principal for campus visit or additional information before deciding. Consider carefully: declining a competitive offer means giving up a place thousands competed for.

Question 38

Are there special provisions for students with disabilities?

Accepted Answer

Yes, special exam provisions are available for SEHS applicants with verified disabilities, learning differences, or medical conditions. Provisions may include: extra time (typically 10-50% additional), rest breaks, separate testing room, alternative formats, assistive technology, reader/scribe assistance, or large print materials. Apply for provisions during the application period with supporting documentation from qualified professionals (psychologist reports, medical specialists, school disability coordinators). Provisions ensure fair access while maintaining assessment validity.

Question 39

Can international students attend SEHS?

Accepted Answer

International students can attend SEHS only if they hold a visa or ImmiCard exempting them from international fees. Eligible visas include: Australian or New Zealand citizenship, permanent residency, humanitarian visa, or specific temporary visas (some parent work visas). Fee-paying international students (most temporary visas) are NOT eligible for SEHS. Visa status must be confirmed by the Department of Home Affairs during application. Families should verify eligibility before applying - contact the Victorian Department of Education International Student Program.

Question 40

What is the equity category for SEHS?

Accepted Answer

The equity category allocates up to 10% of SEHS places to high-achieving students from disadvantaged backgrounds who might face educational barriers. Eligible categories: low-income families (Health Care Card or Pension Card holders), Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students, students in out-of-home care, and refugee/humanitarian visa holders. Equity students must still achieve competitive SEHS scores but may receive offers with slightly lower rankings than merit-only category. Apply by providing documentation during application - equity consideration is automatic upon verification.

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SEHS Frequently Asked Questions

Victoria Selective Entry High Schools Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Victorian Selective Entry High Schools?

When is the SEHS exam for 2026?

How many questions are on the SEHS exam?

What subjects does the SEHS test cover?

How long is each section of the SEHS test?

What is a good score for SEHS?

How many students apply to SEHS each year?

What is the acceptance rate for SEHS?

How do you register for the SEHS exam?

When do SEHS applications open?

What year do you apply for SEHS?

What happens if you miss the SEHS test?

How much does it cost to sit the SEHS test?

Can you apply to multiple SEHS schools?

Do you need coaching for SEHS?

How long should you prepare for SEHS?

When should you start preparing for SEHS?

How much does SEHS preparation cost?

Is online coaching effective for SEHS?

What are the best resources for SEHS preparation?

Can you prepare for SEHS in 6 months?

Are SEHS schools better than private schools?

Is SEHS harder than NAPLAN?

Is Melbourne High School harder to get into than Mac.Robertson?

Can you choose which SEHS school to attend?

What if my child doesn't get into SEHS?

Do all four SEHS schools use the same entrance test?

Which Victorian selective school is hardest to get into?

How many selective entry high schools are in Victoria?

How do SEHS school preferences work?

What ATAR results do SEHS schools achieve?

Should I choose single-sex or co-educational SEHS?

When do SEHS results come out?

How are SEHS offers made?

What is the SEHS reserve list?

Can you appeal a SEHS result?

What happens if you decline a SEHS offer?

Are there special provisions for students with disabilities?

Can international students attend SEHS?

What is the equity category for SEHS?

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Super

What's included:

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Complete Victoria SEHS Preparation Resources

SEHS Test Format & Structure