Computer-based test pilot for selective education
The department is running a computer-based testing pilot for the selective high school and opportunity class placement tests on Saturday 22 June 2024.
The pilot will test the use of computers and new methods for administering the placement tests. The tests will be computer-based from 2025.
As this is a pilot, participating will not result in placement in a selective high school or opportunity class. Participants will not receive a Performance report following the pilot test.
We will pilot both the selective high school and opportunity class tests at these locations:
International Convention Centre, Sydney – pilot places are now full for this location
University of Newcastle, Callaghan
Mount Panorama, Bathurst
For the pilot Opportunity Class Placement Test, participants will arrive between 7:30–8 am, with the test taking place from 8:30–11 am.
For the pilot Selective High School Placement Test, participants will arrive between 12:30–1 pm with the test taking place from 1:30–5 pm.
Who can participate?
The pilot is free and open to students in Year 3 to sit the pilot Opportunity Class Placement Test and students in Year 5 to sit the pilot Selective High School Placement Test.
Parents and carers of students in Year 3 and Year 5 who attend schools close to the test centres can submit an expression of interest (EOI) for their child to participate.
Expressions of interest are open up to 2 May 2024 for Bathurst and Newcastle. Places are full and EOIs closed for the Sydney location.
Places are limited, and we are expecting high demand for places. As places are limited, we cannot guarantee participation in the pilot.
Why should students participate?
Students who participate will experience sitting the pilot computer-based test under test conditions and get to familiarise themselves with computer-based testing. The computers and test centre will be set up like the tests conducted from 2025.
The practice computer-based test will be available to all students through links on the department’s website later in 2024.
Does my child need to bring their own computer to the pilot test?
No, students do not need to bring their own computer. Computers will be provided at the test centre for all students participating in the pilot test.
How will I know if my child has been chosen to participate in the pilot?
The department will advise parents or carers in early May if their child has been selected to participate in the pilot. In early June, an email to parents and carers will be sent with a pilot test admission ticket, test information and test centre location details.
More information
For more information contact the Selective Education Pilot Support team.
Email: SEpilotsupport@det.nsw.edu.au