How to Get into Selective Schools in VIC?

Selective entry high schools in Victoria offer academically challenging learning environments for students with strong academic ability and learning potential. Entry into these schools is competitive, with students selected through the Victorian Selective Entry High School examination.

If you are wondering how to get into selective schools in Victoria, it is important to understand each stage of the application process well before the examination date. Early preparation, consistent study habits, and familiarity with the exam format can help students perform with confidence.

This article clarifies the key steps in the Victorian selective school entry process for students and parents, as well as an overview of the selection policy.

Victoria has 4 government selective entry high schools that offer specialised academic programs for high-achieving students. Entry is based on performance in the Selective Entry High School examination, which assesses a student’s academic skills and reasoning abilities.

Students are generally offered places in Year 9, with applications opening while they are in Year 8. As competition for places is high, many families begin preparing well in advance through regular revision and selective school tutoring. Here is how you can do it:

Before applying, ensure your child meets the eligibility requirements. Applicants generally need to:

• Be in Year 8 when applying for Year 9 entry.
• Meet Australian residency or eligible visa requirements.
• Complete the online application during the official application period.
• Meet any additional requirements published by the Victorian Department of Education.

Checking the eligibility criteria before applications open helps families avoid delays during the application process.

Applications for the Victorian selective school entrance exam must be completed during the official application period. Parents are required to submit an online application and provide the necessary supporting information before the closing date.

It is important to apply early and carefully review all details before submission to avoid missing important deadlines.

As part of the application process, students can nominate their preferred school. Victoria has four selective entry high schools:

• Melbourne High School
• The Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School
• Nossal High School
• Suzanne Cory High School

Before making your selections, consider factors such as school location, travel time, academic programs, extracurricular activities, and learning environment to determine which schools best suit your child’s goals.

The assessment measures academic ability and reasoning skills rather than the school-based curriculum alone. Students receive information about their examination venue and arrangements before the exam. It tests five main areas:

• Reading comprehension
• Mathematics
• Verbal reasoning
• Numerical reasoning
• Written Expression

Regular practice papers, timed assessments, and strong problem-solving skills can help students become familiar with the exam format and improve their performance.

After the examination and assessment process, applicants receive their results and any school offers.

Exam outcome reports are expected to be released in August 2026, with offers made between August and October 2026. Parents should monitor their registered email address and application portal for updates throughout the offer process.

Students who receive an offer must respond within the specified time frame to accept their place.

After the examination results are finalised, places at selective entry high schools are allocated according to the Victorian Department of Education selection policy. Offers are made using the following allocation process:

Preparing for the Victorian selective school entrance exam takes time, consistency, and the right academic support. At Emu Education, we provide selective school tutoring in Melbourne that helps students strengthen their reading, mathematics, verbal reasoning, and numerical reasoning skills through structured lessons and exam-focused preparation.

For more information, call us on 0479 190 958 or email us at info@emueducation.com.au to learn more about our selective school tutoring program and help your child prepare for success.