OC and Selective School Preparation Guides
Explore preparation strategies, planning advice and practical ways to help your child approach trial tests with confidence.
Guide topics
Selective School Preparation
How to Prepare for the NSW Selective School Entry Test
Build a realistic preparation plan for the skills, practice and months leading up to the test.
# Test preparation
2026 Selective School Admission Report: The First Year of 50–50 Gender Allocation
See how admission patterns changed for boys and girls, with reference scores and 2027 preference guidance.
# Selective school results
How to Choose Your NSW Selective School Preferences
Consider a thoughtful approach to researching schools and selecting your preferences.
# School preferences
How Should Students Prepare for the Selective Writing Task
Understand common writing issues and use practical feedback to improve task relevance, structure and expression.
# Writing preparation
Selective Test Band Score Calculator — What Could These Bands Really Mean?
Enter the four performance bands and explore the range of scores they may represent.
# Band Score Calculator
Opportunity Class Preparation
Test-taking Strategies and Parent Support
How to Use CTedu Trial Tests Effectively: The 4Rs Method
Make practice more useful with a clear routine for reviewing, reflecting and improving.
# Using trial tests
How to Improve Time Management in OC and Selective Trial Tests
Help students practise pacing, decision-making and completion under timed conditions.
# Time management
What Parents Should Do During OC and Selective Preparation
Practical ways parents can support healthy, focused preparation without adding pressure.
# Parent support