5 Important Insights About the Higher AbilitySelection Test (HAST) and How Families Can Prepare

Each year, many students across Australia sit the Higher Ability Selection Test (HAST) aspart of their application to selective schools and accelerated learning programs. HAST plays an important role in determining access to academically competitive pathways from Year 8 through to Year 12.

For families, understanding how HAST works and planning accordingly can help students approach the test with greater confidence. Relying solely on school performance, without understanding the distinct nature of HAST, can leave students less familiar with the skills and formats the test emphasises.

The following five insights explain what makes HAST different, why preparation can be helpful, and how families can approach the process in an informed and realistic way.

1. HAST Focuses on Reasoning Skills, Not Memorised Content

A common misconception is that strong school grades alone will ensure success in HAST. This is not the case. According to the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER),which develops and administers HAST, the test is designed to measure higher-order reasoning skills, rather than recalled subject content.

The test assesses abilities such as problem solving, abstract reasoning, comprehension under time constraints, and critical thinking. These skills are not always explicitly taught in classrooms. While students may encounter reasoning tasks in subjects like mathematics and English, HAST questions are often unfamiliar and require flexible thinking.

For example, students might be asked to identify complex patterns in sequences or draw logical conclusions from sophisticated reading passages. The focus on reasoning rather than memorisation allows the test to distinguish between high-ability students, particularly at the upper end of the academic spectrum.

For families, this means that preparation is most effective when it aims to strengthen transferable thinking skills and build familiarity with the kinds of questions students may encounter, rather than relying on rote learning.

2. The Test Structure Differs by Year Level and Format

HAST is not a single standard test. It is offered at different levels depending on the intended year of entry. For secondary students, this typically ranges from Year 8 toYear 12.

Each level varies in question types, reading load, and complexity. For example, students sitting theSenior Secondary test, usually for Year 11 entry, face longer reading passages and more complex multi-step reasoning problems than students sitting the JuniorSecondary level.

The test typically includes several components:

• Reading Comprehension to assess the ability to understand and interpret complex texts
• Mathematical or Mathematical and Scientific Reasoning to evaluate problem-solving skills
• Abstract Reasoning to test non-verbal and pattern recognition skills
• Written Expression to assess clarity and structure in writing

All HAST assessments are conducted on paper. Because each level increases in difficulty, students should prepare using materials that match the level they will sit. Using resources designed for a different level may not accurately reflect the skills or timing required for the task.

3. Time Management Is an Important Part of the Assessment

HAST is designed to be challenging in both content and timing. Many students do not complete every question in sections such as Reading Comprehension and Mathematical Reasoning.The test employs strict timing to evaluate how effectively students can apply their reasoning skills under pressure.

This timing element often separates students with similar ability levels. Familiarity with working under timed conditions can help students manage pacing and reduce errors caused by rushing. Regular practice in simulated conditions can help students develop effective strategies, such as identifying key questions to answer first and avoiding excessive time spent on difficult problems.

Practising under time constraints is not required to sit the test, but some families choose to incorporate this type of preparation so students feel more comfortable with the test structure.

4. Registration and Use of HAST Vary Across Schools

HAST is used by a range of schools across Australia, including selective government schools and independent schools, to help identify students for gifted and accelerated programs. Some international schools also use the test for benchmarking.

Schools, not ACER, manage the registration process. Each school sets its own testing date. If students apply to more than one school, they may sit the test multiple times if the dates differ. If two schools hold their tests on the same day, families must choose which one to attend.

Once the test is completed, theACER machine marks the multiple-choice sections, and trained markers assess theWritten Expression section. Schools receive individual and cohort reports that use standardised scores and percentile ranks to show how each student performed compared to the high-ability HAST cohort. ACER typically provides results to schools within 10 working days after receiving completed test materials.

5. Preparation Is Most Effective When Strategic and Realistic

ACER provides official Sample Question Booklets and free Student Information Bulletins to help students become familiar with question formats. It emphasises that HAST assesses general reasoning skills developed over time, rather than knowledge that can be memorised through short-term coaching.

While no preparation method can guarantee success, many families choose to use targeted preparation strategies to build familiarity and reduce anxiety. It might include:

• Reviewing sample materials to understand the structure of the test
• Practising under timed conditions to improve pacing
• Strengthening reasoning and comprehension skills through regular reading, problem-solving, and discussion
• Using reputable preparation materials aligned with the correct test level

Some families use structured preparation platforms to access additional practice questions and feedback.There are a number of providers that offer such services. These may include features such as exam-style practice questions, detailed solutions, analytics to identify areas of weakness, timed tests, and feedback on written work. If using a commercial service, families should ensure that the resources are accurate, relevant, and appropriate for the student’s year level.

Importantly, ACER is not affiliated with any private preparation providers, and preparation is not compulsory to sit or perform well in the test. Some students succeed through self-study or minimal preparation, while others benefit from more structured approaches.

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 How NotesEdu Can Support HAST Preparation

Many families choose to use structured preparation platforms to help their children become more familiar with HAST-style questions and test conditions. NotesEdu is one example of a provider that offers exam-style practice test packs.

NotesEdu’s online platform includes features such as:

• Practice tests designed to reflect HAST question types and difficulty levels
• Timed assessments that help students experience exam conditions and build pacing strategies
• Detailed solutions and performance reports that highlight strengths and areas for improvement
• Writing feedback from experienced markers, which can support students in refining their written expression
• Flexible access that allows students to practise at their own pace over time

Using these types of resources can help students familiarise themselves with the structure of the test, build confidence, and identify areas where further practice may be beneficial. This can complement other strategies such as reading widely, problem-solving at home, and reviewing official ACER sample materials.

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Final Thoughts

The Higher Ability SelectionTest is a significant assessment used to identify students for selective and accelerated learning opportunities. Understanding how the test works and planning appropriately can support students to perform at their personal best.

Families who begin preparation early have more time to familiarise their child with the structure and demands of the test. However, success ultimately depends on each student’s ability and performance on the day. No preparation method can guarantee selection or a particular score.

Disclaimer:

‍The information in this article is general in nature and is intended to help families understand the HAST process and possible preparation strategies.Individual outcomes will vary. References to commercial preparation platforms, including NotesEdu, are provided for example purposes only. NotesEdu is not part of, affiliated with, or endorsed by HAST or ACER, and operates independently.

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