Preparing for an ACER scholarship exam comes down to three things: understanding what the test actually looks like, practising under realistic conditions, and using the results to improve. Online platforms make all three practical at home. This guide walks parents through each step, from exam structure to timed mock tests to the analytics that turn practice into progress.
Familiarising your child with the specific format and question types of the ACER scholarship exam is the foundation of any preparation plan. Students who know what to expect go into the test with less anxiety and more focus.
| Level | Entry | Components | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary (Level P) | Years 4–6 | Reading and Viewing, Mathematics, Writing | Paper based |
| Secondary (Levels 1, 2 and 3) | Years 7–12 | Written Expression, Humanities (comprehension and interpretation), Mathematics | Online or paper |
How Selectivetrial helps: ACER-style practice packages for Years 5/6, 7/8 and 9/10, each built around the components your child's level will sit. See the level-by-level format guide →
Simulation is where preparation becomes confidence. A full-length, timed mock exam replicates the pressure of the real test, so students learn to manage their time instead of being caught out by it.
ACER runs a Primary level (Level P) for entry into Years 4 to 6, and Secondary Levels 1, 2 and 3 for entry into Years 7 to 12. The level your child sits depends on the year they are applying to enter, so confirm it with the school before choosing practice material.
Primary tests cover Reading and Viewing, Mathematics and Writing. Secondary tests cover Written Expression, Humanities (comprehension and interpretation) and Mathematics. Most sections are multiple choice, while the writing component asks students to respond to set prompts.
It depends on the level. ACER lists the Primary tests as paper based and the Secondary tests as online or paper based, depending on how the school or cooperative program runs them. Practising online still builds timing and question familiarity for either format.
Writing needs a human reader, not just a score. Selectivetrial's PRO packages include 2 writing tasks marked by tutors, with feedback returned within three to four working days, for Years 5/6, 7/8 and 9/10.
The fastest way to improve is to know exactly where the gaps are. Detailed performance analytics and answer explanations turn every practice test into a lesson.
How Selectivetrial helps: full-length timed mock exams, unlimited practice, writing practice with tutor reviews, detailed answer explanations and performance analytics, so parents can run the whole cycle in one place.
Timed ACER-style mock tests, unlimited attempts, tutor-marked writing and performance analytics, for Years 5/6, 7/8 and 9/10.
