If you’ve missed out on the opportunity to get placed in your desired selective school, there’s no need to feel bad! Fortunately, there’s an incredible way to get a placement in the selective high schools in the years 8 to 12. The first thing you need to know is that different selective schools have different admission processes, but most of them conduct the Higher Ability Selective Test (HAST) test. It’s every kid’s dream to study in a selective school. Rejection of application and falling short of getting such an opportunity could lead to stress. But there’s a saying: ‘there’s always light at the end of the tunnel’. So, today in the post, we’ll be your guiding light and show you the pathways to getting admitted to your dream school.
An Overview of Selective Schools
Most students are unaware of the fact that they can get a second chance to crack the selective tests if they missed the opportunity in the first place. There are several selective schools that provide opportunities to deserving candidates willing to apply during years 8-12. However, the application process is different from the one in Year 7. Your chance of appearing for the test also relies on vacancies. At times, certain selective schools announce vacancies as a result of management decisions or maybe due to students’ leaving the school. Certain selective schools decide to stretch the number of seats based on management decisions. This is the right chance to focus the tip of your arrow. No matter whatever might be the reason for vacancies, it’s a good opportunity for you.
Selection Process
As far as the selection process is concerned, it is completely different from the selection process of Year 7. The process will vary based on the school you’ve applied for. Also, it’s essential to keep in mind that there are no centralized selective tests. Some schools call for interviews to determine the candidate’s ability. What kind of test the schools want to take totally depends on them! HAST test is one of the common tests that students need to clear. The cutoff mark is also very high, which means the exam is competitive and students need to have a solid preparation! Once you ace this test, schools will call you for an interview where two or three committee members will be interviewing you. And once you successfully clear the interview round, the next stage is the announcement of the results. There are three types of result lists and you may come across any one of them:
- List of successful candidates
- Reserved list
- Unsuccessful candidates list
If you’re successful, you need to submit the form and the essential documents. If your name is on the reserved list, then the school will get in touch with you provided there’s a place available for you.
How to Improve Your Chance of Getting into a Selective School?
Failures are the pillars of success. Sometimes life doesn’t go the way it is planned. But how you deal with them and gather your courage is what makes you different. To get transferred to a selective school, here are a few things you can do.
- Improve your marks on school tests, especially in important subjects like Science, English, and Maths. You can also try out the selective trial tests which are available online. Also, the NAPLAN test is a great test opportunity for Year 7 students. It can enhance your chances of getting selected in one of the selective schools.
- The Selective Committee also considers the extracurricular activities for admission during years 8 to 12. Get involved in activities like debates, public speaking, sports, volunteers, etc., as it plays an integral role in the selection process.
- Prepare well for the HAST test. Though certain schools do not conduct selection tests, some schools might conduct HAST exams because they want to give them a second chance. You can find a plethora of NAPLAN practice tests, reading tests, mathematical tests, and general ability tests which can significantly help you to improve and build confidence. Begin your preparations in advance because last-minute studies will not help you ace the test.
It might sound too much as of now, but when you get into the flow and begin with your selective test preparations, things will fall into place. Keep your goals in mind, try to practice trial tests till you are satisfied with the outcome. Getting help from selective school tutoring broaden your outlook and also deliver experiences to shape you into an individual that’ll help in your career advancements.