Mastering the ACER Scholarship Tests 2025: Structure, Sections & Study Tips
By Post Author | 19th May, 2025
A good academic program or a prestigious academic opportunity can definitely change the trajectory of a student’s educational prospects and career. The ACER Scholarship Tests identifies high-performing students and serves as a gateway to a sea promising opportunities like specialised academic programs, and scholarships.
What are the ACER Scholarship Tests?
The ACER Scholarship Tests, organised and operated by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER), are specially custom-designed to recognise academically high-performing students for potential scholarship opportunities in independent schools across Australia. These tests assess a range of skills beyond the standard curriculum, focusing on critical thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving abilities.
The key to hit the bull’s eye of succeeding the ACER Scholarship Tests is by meticulously understanding its format, structure, sections, and consistently following the effective study strategies.
About the ACER Scholarship Test: Sections, Structure & Format
The ACER Scholarship Test is open to all students, and depending on the scholarship programs applied for the eligibility criteria varies. The ACER test is predominantly categorised into two levels:
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ACER Scholarship Test |
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Primary (Level P) Tests ➤entry to Years 4, 5 & 6 ➤Paper-based tests |
Secondary Level Tests |
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| Level 1 Tests
➤entry to Years 7 & no in in in 8 ➤online or paper-based tests |
Level 2 Tests
➤entry to Years 9 & 10 ➤online or paper-based tests |
Level 3 Tests ➤entry to Years 11 & 12 ➤online or paper-based tests |
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ACER Scholarship Test : Primary Test Format (Level P)
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Test Section |
No. of Questions | Duration |
Question Type |
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Reading & Viewing |
25 | 30 minutes |
Multiple choice |
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Mathematics |
20 | 30 minutes |
Multiple choice |
|
Writing |
2 | 40 minutes |
Extended Response |
ACER Scholarship Test : Secondary Test Format (Level 1)
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Test Section |
No. of Questions | Duration | Question Type |
|
Written Expression |
2 | 50 minutes |
Extended Response |
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Humanities (Comprehension & Interpretation) |
40-45 | 40 minutes |
Multiple choice |
|
Mathematics |
32-36 | 40 minutes |
Multiple choice |
ACER Scholarship Test : Secondary Test Format (Levels 2 & 3)
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Test Section |
No. of Questions | Duration |
Question Type |
|
Written Expression |
2 | 50 minutes |
Extended Response |
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Humanities (Comprehension & Interpretation) |
40-45 | 40 minutes |
Multiple choice |
|
Mathematics & Science |
32-36 | 40 minutes |
Multiple choice |
ACER Scholarship Test Preparation Tips
- Understand the Test Format
Familiarise yourself with the structure, sections, question types, and time limits for the specific test level your child will be appearing for.
- Develop a Study Plan
Create a realistic and consistent study schedule that allocates sufficient time for each section, focusing on areas where your child may need improvement.
- Practice Regularly
Utilise practice tests and sample questions that mirror the ACER Scholarship Test formats and difficulty level. This helps students become comfortable with the question types, improving their speed and accuracy. ACER-style Practice Tests can often be found on the official ACER website and through trusted test-prep platforms like Selectivetrial.
- Focus on Core Skills
Emphasise the development of foundational skills in reading comprehension, critical thinking, mathematical reasoning, and writing.
- Time Management
Practice under timed conditions to help students develop effective time management strategies. Encourage them to pace themselves and avoid spending too much time on one question.
- Analyse Performance
After each practice test completion, review the answers to identify mistakes and understand the reasoning behind the correct solutions. Focus on learning from the errors.
- Read Widely & Practice Writing
Encourage diverse reading to enhance comprehension and vocabulary skills, which benefit both the Humanities and Writing sections. Regularly practice writing different types of responses to prompts, focusing on clarity, structure, grammar, and vocabulary.
- Stay Calm & Confident
Instill and encourage your child to develop a positive mindset. This will aid in building your child’s confidence. Reducing anxiety on test day can significantly improve performance.Unlock your child’s true potential in a world of academic opportunities with ACER Scholarship Tests. Ensure a confident approach and increased chances of success with Selectivetrial’s ACER style Practice Tests.
