“Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.” ~Alexander Graham Bell

Well it truly is. Nothing beats the power of good preparation before any upcoming competitive test. If your child happens to be appearing for the HAST Test (Higher Ability Selection Test), a focused and planned preparation is a must. But if you aren’t much aware about it, keep reading to know all about the HAST Test.

What is the HAST Test?

The Higher Ability Selection Test or HAST Test is essentially a highly competitive selection test. It determines the high-performing and academically gifted students willing to enrol in accelerated learning and enhancement programmes. 

The HAST test is conducted by ACER, for students of primary and secondary schools willing to enter Selective Schools and other enriched learning programs.

What are the HAST testing year levels?

The HAST tests are conducted at two major levels- 

➤HAST Primary &  ➤HAST Secondary

The HAST Primary is for the upper primary years, namely Year 4 and Year 5.

The HAST Secondary is available at : 

• Junior Secondary – Year 6 or Year 7 for Year 7 or Year 8 entry
• Middle Secondary- Year 8 or Year 9 for Year 9 or Year 10 entry, and lastly
• Senior Secondary- Year 10 for Year 11 entry

The selection of the testing level is solely dependent on the candidate’s current year level and nor his/her age.

Which states conduct the HAST Test?

The states in Australia conducting the HAST Test are-

• Victoria (VIC)
• New South Wales (NSW)
• Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
• Tasmania (TAS)
• Northern Territory (NT)
• Western Australia (WA)
• Queensland (QLD)
• South Australia (SA)

What does the HAST Test include?

The test conducting body ACER here has ensured that the HAST test assesses a student’s potential and academic abilities very precisely. It is certainly way more challenging than the regular high school tests. 

The HAST test includes four test sections, they are:

• Reading Comprehension
• Mathematics
• Abstract Reasoning
• Written Expression  

HAST Primary Format

HAST Secondary Format

Preparation for HAST Test 2024

It is a known fact that preparation before any kind of test is a must. Be it a regular school test or a competitive exam like the HAST test. So without further ado make sure to follow the tips during your preparation journey.

• Develop clarity of thought & be well-read

Nothing beats the power of a well-read and well-versed candidate during a rigorous test like the HAST test. Make sure to start reading way early in your preparation journey. Reading will develop critical thinking, language skills and vocabulary. It will also instil confidence  from within.

• Be thorough with test format & question types

Knowing the test you are about to take is a candidate’s first and foremost duty. Get to know the test details, question types, format and structure of the test. This will prepare you for the real test, as you already have an idea of what you have to deal with and how.

• Do self study sessions & thorough analysis 

Indulge yourself in self study sessions of all the different test sections. This will help you in giving attention to all details and enhance your overall preparation for the test. Also a thorough analysis will help in knowing your strengths and weaknesses in each section.

• Master your weaknesses with expert’s guidance

Once you know your weaknesses, work on them by devoting extra prep and study time. Take subject specific practice tests, solve sample questions and review. If necessary take personalised coaching classes to overcome your hurdles.

• Practice, Practice & Practice

Yes, that’s right!

This is what creates the big difference. Take timed practice tests, solve past question papers, and sample questions for each test section. Thorough practice will develop confidence, and also ensure effective time management of the day of the real HAST test. 

Improve your child’s HAST test taking confidence with Australia’s leading test/exam practice online platform- Selectivetrial.