HAST Test Preparation Australia 2025-2026 | Higher Ability Selection Test Coaching
95% Success Rate | Trusted by 2,000+ Students in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane & Online
Master the HAST (Higher Ability Selection Test) with Australia's leading HAST exam coaching for Year 6 & 7 private school entry. AI-powered HAST test prep, adaptive learning, and expert coaching for selective private schools. Start your journey with free HAST mock exams online.
Proven Track Record of Success
Trusted by thousands of families across Australia
Success Rate
Students Coached
Parent Rating
Placement Rate
Score Improvement
Years Experience
Over 10,000 students have achieved their selective school dreams with our proven methods
Stay ahead with the most current HAST exam formats, question types, and assessment criteria. Our HAST Test Preparation Australia program is continuously updated for 2025, following the latest guidelines for Higher Ability Selection Test (HAST) success.
Experience advanced AI-powered HAST test prep. Our adaptive learning technology personalizes your child's HAST exam coaching, analyzes performance, and creates custom study paths for maximum HAST test success rate.
Join Australia's largest HAST exam community in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane & online. 95% HAST test success rate, 4.9/5 parent rating, and proven results with HAST mock exams online and expert coaching.
"Finally, a HAST Test Preparation Program That Works for Every Family"
You're not alone in the HAST journey. Thousands of parents felt exactly like you do right now - overwhelmed by the HAST test process and worried about their child's selective private school placement. Here's how BrainTree transformed their HAST exam success.
“We tried everything for the HAST exam, but nothing worked until BrainTree's HAST coaching. Aarav's confidence soared and he secured a top HAST placement!”
“The HAST test was overwhelming for us as parents. BrainTree's AI-powered HAST test prep and parent support made all the difference. Sophie got into her dream selective private school!”
“We needed a proven HAST test preparation program. BrainTree's HAST mock exams online and expert coaching helped Zara achieve a 95% HAST test success rate!”
Join 2,000+ Successful HAST Families Today
Get the same proven HAST system that helped thousands of families achieve selective private school success. Start with our comprehensive HAST preparation program.
Invest in Your Child's HAST Exam Success
Comprehensive preparation materials designed specifically for HAST exams.
HAST Premium
Essential HAST test preparation for Year 6 & 7 entry
What's included:
- ACER-HAST Practice Tests (3 Components)
- 5 Reading Comprehension Exercises
- 5 Mathematical Reasoning Practice
- 5 Abstract Reasoning Training
- 90-Days Access
- Phone Support
- Email Support
HAST Ultimate
Comprehensive HAST preparation with expert coaching
What's included:
- ACER-HAST Practice Tests (3 Components)
- 5 Reading Comprehension Exercises
- 5 Mathematical Reasoning Practice
- 5 Abstract Reasoning Training
- 10 Writing Tasks with detailed solutions & feedback
- 365-Days Access
- Phone Support
- Email Support
HAST Super Pack
Premium HAST preparation with 1-on-1 coaching and guaranteed support
What's included:
- 400+ Comprehensive ACER-HAST Exam-Style Tests
- 10 Reading Comprehension Exercises
- 10 Mathematical Reasoning Practice
- 10 Abstract Reasoning Tests
- 100 Non-Verbal Reasoning Practice Tests
- 20 Writing Tasks with detailed solutions & feedback
- 100+ Vocabulary Tests + 200-word Vocabulary Mastery Course with sentence usage & quizzes
- 50 Poetry Practice Tests
- 144 Daily Paragraph Editing Exercises
- Phone Support
- Email Support
BrainTree Coaching
Trusted by thousands of families across Australia for selective school preparation, OC test coaching, and HAST exam success.
Trusted by Australian Families
See what real families are saying about their experience with BrainTree Coaching for HAST Exam preparation
Featured Success Story
Vikram Gosain
Braintree's HAST Year 9 prep gave my child the confidence and skills to tackle even the toughest questions — truly exam-focused and effective.
More Success Stories
Vigyansh Chugh
We are incredibly thankful to Braintree Coaching for their amazing support in my nephew's HAST Year 8 preparation. After working through all 40 Writing tasks provided, his writing skills and confidence reached a completely new level. Writing truly became the turning point for him. It helped him express his ideas clearly, structure his responses better, and handle the pressure of tough exam conditions. Thanks to Braintree's focused training, mock tests, and detailed feedback, he was able to secure a spot at Girraween High School, even with only 2 seats available this year. It was a very tough competition, and we couldn't have done it without the structured and high-quality support from Braintree. Highly recommended to every parent looking for serious HAST preparation!
Atul Narang
We enrolled our son in Braintree's HAST Year 7 preparation course, and we couldn't be happier. The Writing program was a real highlight, the feedback was detailed, personalised and helped him sharpen him structure, ideas and grammar. The practice tests for Abstract and Mathematical Reasoning were also extremely well designed and pushed his thinking to the next level. Braintree's content and support gave us a clear roadmap and we saw steady, real improvement. Highly recommended for any parent serious about HAST!
Rajesh Kumar
Braintree's HAST preparation program was a game-changer for my son. The mock tests were spot on, and the feedback was detailed and helpful. He felt prepared and confident on test day. We couldn't be happier with the results!
Kazi Hasan
The team behind the Braintree Coaching is great. They have provided 10 maths and reading tests free for my child to practice. Only because, we have previously purchased one course from them. Unlike many others who charge hefty fees for everything. Their online tests quality is good, fully automated without any glicth. A timely initiative for those who are seeking this type of help. I wish they will continue to help more and more kids over the coming days.
Vivian Cheung
I highly recommend Braintree Coaching's online test package! It has been instrumental in helping my child prepare for the selective test. The resources are comprehensive and user-friendly, making learning effective. Braintree boosted my child's confidence. We're truly grateful for the support.
Ajith V S
We purchased the Braintree Super Pack for our daughter's exam preparation, and I can truly say it exceeded all our expectations. I was amazed by the quality of the content and the huge number of practice papers — nearly 200 exams! I don't think any other institution offers this much targeted practice.
All reviews are sourced directly from our Google profile and represent genuine experiences from real families across Australia.
Give Your Child the Advantage
Our Most Successful HAST Preparation Programs
What's Included:
- ✓5 full-length Mathematical Reasoning tests
- ✓5 Reading Comprehension tests
- ✓5 Abstract Reasoning tests
- ✓Based on the latest online HAST (ACER) test format
- ✓Questions mirror the real exam experience
- ✓Detailed explanations and model answers for every question
- ✓90 days of unlimited access to all resources
15 Tests
AUD $99
AUD $150
What's Included:
- ✓5 full-length Mathematical Reasoning tests
- ✓5 Reading Comprehension tests
- ✓5 Abstract Reasoning tests
- ✓5 Writing tasks with 10 prompts
- ✓Personalized feedback for each writing task
- ✓Based on the latest online HAST (ACER) test format
- ✓Questions mirror the real exam experience
- ✓365 days of unlimited access to all resources
20 Tests + Writing
AUD $199
AUD $250
What's Included:
- ✓25 Full-Length HAST Practice Tests
- ✓20 Writing Prompts with expert feedback
- ✓100+ Non-Verbal Reasoning Lessons
- ✓150+ Daily Paragraph Editing Exercises
- ✓50+ High-Frequency Vocabulary Lessons
- ✓25+ Advanced Vocabulary Mastery Lessons
- ✓50 Poetry-Based Comprehension Tests
- ✓AI-powered Writing Assessment Tool
- ✓365 Days of Unlimited Access
400+ Tests & Lessons
AUD $399
AUD $499
What's Included:
- ✓5 full-length Mathematical Reasoning tests
- ✓5 Reading Comprehension tests
- ✓5 Abstract Reasoning tests
- ✓Based on the latest online HAST (ACER) test format
- ✓Questions mirror the real exam experience
- ✓Detailed explanations and model answers for every question
- ✓90 days of unlimited access to all resources
15 Tests
AUD $99
AUD $150
What's Included:
- ✓5 full-length Mathematical Reasoning tests
- ✓5 Reading Comprehension tests
- ✓5 Abstract Reasoning tests
- ✓5 Writing tasks with 10 prompts
- ✓Personalized feedback for each writing task
- ✓Based on the latest online HAST (ACER) test format
- ✓Questions mirror the real exam experience
- ✓365 days of unlimited access to all resources
20 Tests + Writing
AUD $199
AUD $250
What's Included:
- ✓25 Full-Length HAST Practice Tests
- ✓20 Writing Prompts with expert feedback
- ✓100+ Non-Verbal Reasoning Lessons
- ✓150+ Daily Paragraph Editing Exercises
- ✓50+ High-Frequency Vocabulary Lessons
- ✓25+ Advanced Vocabulary Mastery Lessons
- ✓50 Poetry-Based Comprehension Tests
- ✓AI-powered Writing Assessment Tool
- ✓365 Days of Unlimited Access
400+ Tests & Lessons
AUD $399
AUD $499
Complete HAST Test Preparation Guide
Navigate through our comprehensive HAST preparation resources and find exactly what you need for private school success across Australia.
HAST Overview
Complete guide to HAST test preparation with expert coaching for private school entry
Preparation Features
Comprehensive HAST test preparation covering all sections and components
Success Stories
Real testimonials from families who achieved their private school dreams
Preparation Packages
Choose the perfect preparation package for HAST success
Parent Reviews
See what families say about our HAST preparation programs
Popular Courses
Our most successful HAST preparation programs
Complete Preparation Guide
Master every aspect of HAST preparation and success strategies
Test Day Success
Essential guidelines and strategies for optimal HAST test day performance
HAST Schools by State
Discover private schools across Australia that use the HAST test
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common HAST preparation questions
Click any section above to jump directly to that content
Complete HAST Test Preparation Guide 2025-2026
Everything you need to know about the Higher Ability Selection Test (HAST) for private school entry. Our comprehensive guide covers test format, preparation strategies, and success tips from our expert tutors who have helped 2,000+ students achieve their private school dreams.
Strategic Preparation Timeline
Understanding HAST
Objectives
- Test format and structure
- Subject areas covered
- Scoring methodology
- School requirements
Key Activities
- Review HAST test specifications
- Understand abstract reasoning concepts
- Learn verbal reasoning techniques
- Master quantitative reasoning skills
Preparation Phase 1: Foundation Building
Objectives
- Build core reasoning skills
- Develop test-taking strategies
- Establish study routine
- Assess current ability level
Key Activities
- Complete diagnostic assessment
- Practice basic reasoning exercises
- Learn time management techniques
- Develop consistent study habits
Preparation Phase 2: Skill Development
Objectives
- Master abstract reasoning patterns
- Improve verbal comprehension
- Strengthen mathematical reasoning
- Build test confidence
Key Activities
- Practice complex pattern recognition
- Work on vocabulary expansion
- Solve advanced mathematical problems
- Complete timed practice sessions
Preparation Phase 3: Test Mastery
Objectives
- Perfect test-taking techniques
- Achieve consistent high scores
- Manage test anxiety
- Final preparation review
Key Activities
- Complete full-length mock tests
- Review and analyze performance
- Practice stress management techniques
- Final strategy refinement
Test Day Success
Objectives
- Execute test strategy effectively
- Manage time efficiently
- Stay calm and focused
- Maximize performance
Key Activities
- Arrive prepared and confident
- Apply learned strategies
- Monitor time throughout test
- Review answers if time permits
HAST Test Day Success Guide
Essential preparation tips and strategies to ensure peak performance on your HAST exam day. Follow our comprehensive guide for optimal results.
Test Day Timeline & Checklist
Night Before
Essential Tasks:
- Get 8-9 hours of quality sleep
- Prepare all required materials and documents
- Review test location and arrival time
- Eat a nutritious dinner and stay hydrated
Pro Tips:
- Avoid last-minute cramming
- Set multiple alarms
- Lay out clothes and materials
Morning Of
Essential Tasks:
- Eat a balanced breakfast with protein
- Arrive 30 minutes early at test location
- Bring required ID and materials
- Use bathroom facilities before test begins
Pro Tips:
- Avoid excessive caffeine
- Dress comfortably
- Stay calm and positive
During Test
Essential Tasks:
- Read all instructions carefully
- Manage time effectively across sections
- Stay focused and avoid distractions
- Use elimination strategies for difficult questions
Pro Tips:
- Don't panic if stuck
- Keep track of time
- Review answers if time permits
After Test
Essential Tasks:
- Avoid discussing answers with others
- Focus on positive aspects of performance
- Continue with normal activities
- Wait patiently for results (HAST results are typically released 4-6 weeks after the test date via email and school portals.)
Pro Tips:
- Don't second-guess yourself
- Celebrate completing the test
- Stay positive
Required Materials Checklist
Essential Documents
- HAST test admission ticket
- Valid photo identification
- School application confirmation
- Medical certificates (if applicable)
Stationery
- Blue or black pens (multiple)
- Pencils (2B recommended)
- Eraser and sharpener
- Ruler (clear plastic preferred)
Personal Items
- Water bottle (clear plastic)
- Light snack for energy
- Watch (non-digital)
- Tissues and hand sanitizer
Not Permitted
- Mobile phones or electronic devices
- Calculators or smart watches
- Correction fluid or tape
- Highlighters or colored pens
Section-Specific Test Strategies
Abstract Reasoning
Key Strategies:
- Look for patterns in shapes, sequences, and relationships
- Use systematic elimination for multiple choice questions
- Don't spend too long on any single question
- Trust your pattern recognition instincts
Time Management:
30 minutes - Aim for 1-2 minutes per question
Verbal Reasoning
Key Strategies:
- Read questions carefully before looking at options
- Use context clues for vocabulary questions
- Eliminate obviously incorrect answers first
- Look for logical relationships between words
Time Management:
30 minutes - Work steadily through all questions
Quantitative Reasoning
Key Strategies:
- Show your working for calculation questions
- Use logical reasoning for number patterns
- Check your answers by working backwards
- Don't get stuck on complex calculations
Time Management:
30 minutes - Balance speed with accuracy
Mathematical Reasoning
Key Strategies:
- Break down complex problems into steps
- Use diagrams and visual aids when helpful
- Apply mathematical concepts systematically
- Double-check calculations if time permits
Time Management:
30 minutes - Prioritize questions you can solve quickly
Final Test Day Reminders
Do's
- Stay calm and confident throughout the test
- Read all instructions carefully before starting
- Use time management strategies practiced during preparation
- Answer all questions (no penalty for guessing)
- Review answers if time permits
Don'ts
- Don't panic if you encounter difficult questions
- Don't spend too much time on any single question
- Don't change answers unless you're certain
- Don't discuss the test with other students during breaks
- Don't second-guess yourself after the test
Private Schools Using HAST Test Across Australia
Discover the prestigious private schools across Australia that use the Higher Ability Selection Test (HAST) for student admissions. These schools are known for their academic excellence and selective entry programs.
New South Wales
Beverly Hills Girls High School
Blacktown Girls High School
Canterbury Boys' High School
Caringbah High School
Castle Hill High School
Chatswood High School
Cheltenham Girls' High School
Cronulla High School
Epping Boys High School
Fort Street High School
Girraween High School
Gorokan High School
Gosford High School
Granville Boys High School
Homebush Boys High School
Hornsby Girls' High School
Hurlstone Agricultural High School
Macquarie Fields High School
Narara Valley High School
Northern Beaches Secondary College
Northmead High School
Pennant Hills High School
Penrith Selective High School
Ryde Secondary College
St George Girls High School
Sefton High School
Sydney Catholic Schools – Newman Selective Gifted Education Program
Sydney Grammar School, Edgecliff Preparatory
Sydney Technical High School
Toronto High School
Willoughby Girls High School
Victoria
Alkira Secondary College
Al Siraat College
Aquinas College
Balwyn High School
Berwick Secondary College
Box Hill High School
Braybrook College
Brentwood Secondary College
Dandenong High School
Edgars Creek Secondary College
Emerald Secondary College
Hoppers Crossing Secondary College
Keilor Downs College
Lara Secondary College
Matthew Flinders Girls Secondary College
Mill Park Secondary School
Parade College
Point Cook Senior Secondary College
Reservoir High School
St Finbar's Primary School
St Helena Secondary College
Taylors Lakes Secondary College
Trafalgar High School
Traralgon College
Warragul Regional College
Queensland
Benowa State High School
Brisbane South State Secondary College
Brisbane State High School
Indooroopilly State High School
Murrumba State Secondary College
Narangba Valley State High School
Palm Beach Currumbin State High School
Robina State High School
South Australia
Aberfoyle Park High School
Adelaide Botanic High School
Glenunga International High School
Norwood International High School
The Heights School
Unley High School
Western Australia
Carey Baptist College
Churchlands Senior High School
Harrisdale Senior High School
Mandurah Baptist College
Mount Lawley Senior High School
Ocean Reef Senior High School
Ready to Secure Your HAST School Placement?
Join our comprehensive HAST preparation program and give your child the best chance of gaining entry to their preferred private school.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about HAST (Higher Ability Selection Test) preparation and our comprehensive programs.
What is the HAST (Higher Ability Selection Test)?
The Higher Ability Selection Test (HAST) is a cognitive assessment developed by ACER to identify academically gifted students for selective high school entry, SEAL/SEALP programs, accelerated learning, and scholarships. It focuses on reasoning, problem-solving, and critical thinking—not rote memorisation.
What is the format and timing of the HAST exam?
The HAST consists of four sections: 1) Reading Comprehension (MCQ, 35–40 questions, ~45 min), 2) Mathematical Reasoning (MCQ, 28–35 questions, ~40 min), 3) Abstract Reasoning (MCQ, ~30 questions, ~30 min), and 4) Written Expression (2 essays, ~25 min). Total duration is about 2 hours 45 minutes, including short breaks.
Who is eligible to sit the HAST and which schools use it?
Students in Years 5–12 can sit the appropriate HAST stream (Primary, Junior, Middle, Senior) depending on their target year. HAST is used by government and independent selective schools across Australia, including Chatswood High, Fort Street, Penrith Selective, Epping Boys (NSW), Alkira, Braybrook, Box Hill (VIC), and many more.
How is the HAST scored and how are results reported?
HAST MCQs are machine-scored; essays are double-marked (third marker if needed). Reports include raw & standardised scores, percentiles, stanines, and interpretive notes. Percentiles are relative to a high-ability reference group, not the general population.
What is the best way to prepare for the HAST?
Start 6–12 months early. Use official ACER HAST Sample Booklets (2019, 2023), do timed practice with MCQs and essays, analyze errors, and focus on weak sections. Rotate focus (MCQs Mon–Thu, writing Fri, mini-mock Fri PM), and do monthly full mocks under exam conditions. Read widely, do puzzles, and journal daily.
Where can I find HAST past papers and sample questions?
Official ACER HAST Sample Booklets (2019, 2023) are the best source. You can also use reputable online resources and Braintree's free HAST mock exams and downloadable practice questions for all four sections.
What are the top tips for HAST test day?
Bring 2 HB/B pencils, eraser, sharpener, 2 blue/black pens, snack, water bottle, and a jumper. Use deep-breathing to reduce anxiety, start with easier items, stick to your pacing plan, and remember: no question is "worth more"—guess if unsure (no penalty for wrong answers).
How do I register for the HAST and when are the test dates?
Registration is handled by each participating school. Check the school's website for application forms, deadlines, and test dates. Most HAST tests are held between March and August, but dates vary by school.
What makes BrainTree's HAST preparation different?
Our HAST program features: 1,000+ practice questions, AI-powered adaptive learning, comprehensive mock tests, expert tutor support, personalized learning paths, and a proven 95% success rate. We focus on both content mastery and test-taking strategies, with specialized coaching for each HAST section.
What is the success rate of BrainTree HAST students?
We maintain a 95% success rate for students who complete our comprehensive HAST program. Over 2,000 students have successfully gained selective school placement through our HAST preparation programs across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and online.
Still Have Questions About HAST Success?
Our HAST experts are here to provide personalized guidance for your child's journey to selective school success through the Higher Ability Selection Test.