Selective entry exam: a guide for parents

What the exam typically covers

The Victorian selective entry exam is sat in Year 8 for entry into Year 9. It typically assesses numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, reading comprehension, mathematics and writing. Always check the official Department of Education information for the current year's format and dates.

When to start

Many families start structured preparation 6–12 months before the exam. Steady weekly practice is more effective than intensive cramming in the final weeks.

How to help at home

• Encourage wide reading — fiction, non-fiction and news.
• Make timed practice normal and low-stress.
• Review mistakes together and focus on the reasoning, not just the answer.
• Keep a balance with sport, rest and friends.