NSW Selective Writing Test Format 2024: Complete Guide
Overview
The NSW selective school entrance test is a crucial examination that determines entry into selective secondary schools across New South Wales. Understanding the exact format, timing, and requirements is the first step to effective preparation.
Test Components
The NSW selective school entrance test consists of three main components:
1. Writing (30 minutes)
The writing component is a single extended response task where students must produce an original composition based on a stimulus text or image.
Key Details:
- Duration: 30 minutes (including planning, writing, and reviewing)
- Task Type: Single extended response writing task
- Stimulus: Usually includes a prompt, image, or short text excerpt
- Word Count: Typically 300-400 words (no strict limit, but quality over quantity)
- Writing Genres: May include narrative, descriptive, or imaginative writing
2. Reading (45 minutes)
The reading component tests comprehension, analysis, and interpretation skills across various text types.
Key Details:
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Text Types: Multiple passages (narrative, informational, persuasive)
- Question Format: Multiple choice and short answer questions
- Total Questions: Usually 20-30 questions across 3-4 passages
3. Numeracy (30 minutes)
The numeracy component assesses mathematical reasoning and problem-solving.
Key Details:
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Topics: Number operations, fractions, percentages, algebra, geometry, data interpretation
- Question Format: Multiple choice and short answer
Overall Test Structure
| Component | Duration | Format | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Writing | 30 min | Extended response | 1 task |
| Reading | 45 min | Multiple choice + short answer | 20-30 |
| Numeracy | 30 min | Multiple choice + short answer | 20-25 |
| TOTAL | 105 minutes | Mixed | ~45-55 |
Marking Criteria
Each component is marked on a band scale (Band 1 being lowest, Band 6 being highest). Schools use a combined score to determine selectivity.
Writing Band Descriptors
Band 6 - Excellent:
- Clear, purposeful response to stimulus
- Well-developed ideas with specific details
- Varied sentence structures and vocabulary
- Correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation
- Engaging and compelling narrative/description
Band 5 - Good:
- Clear response to stimulus
- Developed ideas with supporting details
- Generally varied sentences and vocabulary
- Mostly correct spelling and grammar
- Generally engaging writing
Band 4 - Satisfactory:
- Adequate response to stimulus
- Some developed ideas
- Some sentence variation
- Generally accurate spelling and grammar
- Adequate engagement
Bands 1-3:
- Increasingly limited response to stimulus and technical accuracy
Test Conditions & Rules
Testing Environment
- Conducted in designated schools across NSW
- Individual student supervision
- Quiet, controlled environment
- Standard school testing room conditions
Materials Provided
- Question paper(s)
- Answer booklet or paper (writing)
- Multiple choice answer sheet (reading/numeracy)
- Pencil(s) and eraser provided
Not Permitted
- Calculators (for any section)
- Mobile phones or electronic devices
- Dictionaries or reference materials
- Correction fluid (pencil marks only)
Timing Strategy
Writing (30 minutes total)
- Planning: 5-8 minutes (brainstorm ideas, create quick outline)
- Writing: 18-22 minutes (compose response)
- Review: 2-3 minutes (check spelling, grammar, clarity)
Reading (45 minutes)
- Skimming: 5 minutes (read all passages first)
- Careful Reading: 25 minutes (read and answer questions)
- Review: 15 minutes (check answers, attempt skipped questions)
Numeracy (30 minutes)
- Work through methodically
- Easier questions: 1-2 minutes each
- Harder questions: 3-5 minutes each
- Final 5 minutes: Review and check calculations
Schools Included in Selective Testing
Selective secondary schools in NSW include:
Sydney Metropolitan:
- Fort Street High School (co-ed)
- James Ruse Agricultural High School (co-ed)
- Kogarah High School (co-ed)
- Burrwood High School (co-ed)
- Penrith High School (co-ed)
- Cronulla High School (co-ed)
- Hornsby Girls High School (girls)
- Girraween High School (co-ed)
- Strathfield Girls High School (girls)
- Selective schools in inner west and north side
Regional NSW:
- Albury High School
- Armidale High School
- Coffs Harbour High School
- Orange High School
- Wagga Wagga High School
Scoring System
The test uses a combined score from all three components:
- Maximum possible score: Approximately 100-110 points (varies by year)
- Passing mark (minimum): Approximately 30-40 points
- Selection mark: Varies by school and competition level
- Top selective schools (James Ruse, Kogarah): 85-95+
- Mid-tier selective schools: 70-85
- Regional selective schools: 60-75
Each component contributes roughly equally, though writing is often weighted more heavily by individual schools in selection decisions.
Common Questions About Test Format
Q: Can I use a pen for writing?
A: No, pencil only is required. However, you can cross out and rewrite as much as you need during the test.
Q: Is there a word limit for the writing task?
A: No strict limit, but most students write 250-400 words. Quality is valued over quantity.
Q: Are there practice papers available?
A: Yes, released sample papers are available from the Department of Education website. Your school may also provide practice materials.
Q: Can I ask for extra paper during the test?
A: Yes, invigilators will provide extra paper if needed. Plan ahead to minimize this.
Q: How long is the entire test?
A: The actual testing time is 105 minutes (3 components). With breaks and instructions, the total time at the testing venue is usually 2-2.5 hours.
Q: What happens if I finish early?
A: You can review your work. Invigilators will not allow you to leave early; you must remain seated.
Next Steps
Now that you understand the test format, consider:
- Practice with the structure: Use timed practice papers to get comfortable with component timing
- Identify weak areas: Focus your preparation on components or types of questions where you need improvement
- Build speed and accuracy: Practice under realistic conditions to improve both skills
- Master the marking criteria: Refer back to the band descriptors when reviewing your writing
Last Updated: November 2024
Related Guides:
- Master Your 30 Minutes - Deep dive into time management for the writing component
- Inside the Marker's Mind - Understand exactly what markers are looking for
- Selective Writing Test Topics 2024 - See the topics that appear in the test