Victoria Selective Entry High Schools Preparation 2026 | SEHS Exam Coaching
95% Success Rate | 500+ Students Placed in Melbourne High, Mac.Robertson, Suzanne Cory & Nossal
Master the SEHS exam with Victoria's leading preparation platform for selective high school students. Expert coaching for Melbourne High, Mac.Robertson, Suzanne Cory, and Nossal High School. Adaptive learning with personalized coaching for selective entry programs.
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 SEHS exam formats, question types, and assessment criteria. Our Victoria SEHS preparation is continuously updated for 2026, following the latest Department of Education guidelines for Melbourne High, Mac.Robertson, Suzanne Cory, and Nossal High School.
Experience advanced AI-powered SEHS exam preparation. Our adaptive learning technology personalizes your child's selective school coaching, analyzes performance patterns, and creates custom study paths for maximum success in Victoria's selective entry high schools.
Join Victoria's leading selective school community in Melbourne & online. 95% SEHS success rate, 4.9/5 parent rating, and proven results with comprehensive preparation for Melbourne High, Mac.Robertson, Suzanne Cory, and Nossal High School.
Complete Victoria SEHS Preparation Guide
Navigate through our comprehensive SEHS preparation resources and find exactly what you need for selective school success in Victoria.
SEHS Overview
Complete guide to Victoria SEHS preparation with expert coaching for selective school entry
Preparation Features
Comprehensive SEHS test preparation covering all sections and components
Success Stories
Real testimonials from families who achieved their selective school dreams
Preparation Packages
Choose the perfect preparation package for SEHS success
Popular Courses
Our most successful SEHS preparation programs
Free Resources
Access free SEHS practice tests, study materials, and preparation guides
Test Day Success
Essential guidelines and strategies for optimal SEHS test day performance
Results & Next Steps
Understand your SEHS results and explore pathways to continued success
SEHS Schools
Discover the four selective entry high schools in Victoria
Parent Reviews
See what families say about our SEHS preparation programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common SEHS preparation questions
Click any section above to jump directly to that content
Success Stories from Victoria's Selective Schools
Hear from parents and students who achieved their dreams of entering Victoria's elite selective high schools.
“BrainTree's SEHS preparation program was incredible. My daughter gained admission to Melbourne High School with a scholarship. The personalized coaching made all the difference.”
“The SEHS mock exams were spot-on. My son felt confident and prepared for the actual test. He's now thriving at Mac.Robertson Girls' High School.”
“The comprehensive study materials and expert guidance helped my daughter secure a place at Suzanne Cory High School. The investment was worth every penny.”
Start Your Success Story
Join hundreds of successful students who have achieved their selective school dreams with BrainTree Coaching.
Choose Your SEHS Preparation Plan
Select the perfect package to maximize your child's chances of success in Victoria's selective entry high schools
SEHS Starter
Perfect for students beginning their SEHS preparation journey
What's included:
- SEHS Study Guide (PDF)
- 100 Practice Questions
- 1 Mock Exam
- Basic Progress Tracking
- Email Support
- Not included:Personalized Study Plan
- Not included:1-on-1 Tutoring Sessions
- Not included:Advanced Analytics
SEHS Professional
Comprehensive preparation with personalized coaching
What's included:
- Everything in Starter
- 500+ Practice Questions
- 5 Mock Exams
- Personalized Study Plan
- Advanced Progress Analytics
- Priority Email Support
- 2 x 1-on-1 Tutoring Sessions
- Not included:Group Study Sessions
SEHS Elite
Premium package with unlimited support and resources
What's included:
- Everything in Professional
- 1000+ Practice Questions
- 10 Mock Exams
- Weekly Group Study Sessions
- 5 x 1-on-1 Tutoring Sessions
- Phone & Email Support
- Parent Progress Reports
- Success Guarantee
Give Your Child the Advantage
Our Most Successful SEHS Preparation Programs
What's Included:
- ✓Based on the latest online Selective test format
- ✓Questions mirror the real exam experience
- ✓Includes all major question types across Reading, Math, Thinking Skills, and Writing
- ✓Detailed explanations and model answers for every question
- ✓Full-length mock tests with instant scoring & progress tracking
100+ Tests
AUD $296
AUD $396
What's Included:
- ✓Aligned with the NSW Selective exam writing format
- ✓Covers both imaginative and persuasive writing styles
- ✓Includes 20 full writing tasks with high-quality prompts
- ✓Each task comes with expert feedback and model responses
- ✓Supports vocabulary growth with 170+ targeted lessons
- ✓Boosts clarity, expression, structure, and exam confidence
50+ Tests
AUD $198
AUD $396
What's Included:
- ✓Based on the latest online Selective test format
- ✓Questions mirror the real exam experience
- ✓Includes all major question types across Reading, Math, Thinking Skills, and Writing
- ✓Detailed explanations and model answers for every question
- ✓Full-length mock tests with instant scoring & progress tracking
400+ Tests
AUD $499
AUD $599
What's Included:
- ✓Comprehensive poetry preparation for OC, Selective, HAST & Scholarships exams
- ✓Covers all major poetry question types across different exams
- ✓Detailed explanations of poetic devices and literary techniques
- ✓Step-by-step answers with explanations for every question
- ✓Improves comprehension and critical thinking skills for all exams
50 Tests
AUD $132
What's Included:
- ✓Comprehensive narrative writing preparation
- ✓Expert techniques for engaging storytelling
- ✓Detailed feedback and model answers
- ✓Progressive skill development approach
- ✓Perfect for selective school preparation
18 Tests
AUD $132
AUD $264
Complete SEHS Resource Library
Access our comprehensive collection of SEHS preparation resources, including practice materials, study guides, and expert tips. Everything you need to succeed in Victoria's selective entry high schools.
Practice Materials
SEHS Practice Tests
PracticeFull-length practice tests that mirror the actual SEHS exam format
Writing Practice Tasks
PracticeComprehensive writing practice with persuasive and creative tasks
Mock Exam Simulations
SimulationTimed practice sessions that replicate actual test conditions
Study Guides
SEHS Format Guide
GuideComplete breakdown of the SEHS exam structure and requirements
Strategy Handbook
HandbookProven techniques and strategies for each section of the SEHS
School Information
Selective Schools Guide
GuideDetailed information about Melbourne High, Mac.Robertson, Suzanne Cory, and Nossal
Access Your Complete SEHS Resource Library
Get instant access to our comprehensive collection of SEHS preparation resources, including practice tests, study guides, and expert strategies.
SEHS Test Day Success Guide
Essential preparation tips and strategies to ensure peak performance on your SEHS 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 (Results are typically released 9-10 weeks after the test date via email and online portal.)
Pro Tips:
- Don't second-guess yourself
- Celebrate completing the test
- Stay positive
Required Materials Checklist
Essential Documents
- ACER admission ticket
- Valid photo identification
- School confirmation letter
- 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 breaks
- 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
Reading Reasoning
Key Strategies:
- Read the passage carefully before looking at questions
- Identify key themes and main ideas
- Use context clues for unfamiliar vocabulary
- Eliminate obviously incorrect answers first
Time Management:
35 minutes - Spend 10 minutes reading, 25 minutes answering
Mathematics Reasoning
Key Strategies:
- Show your working for all calculations
- Check your answers by working backwards
- Use logical reasoning for complex problems
- Don't get stuck on difficult questions
Time Management:
30 minutes - Aim for 1-2 minutes per question
Verbal General Ability
Key Strategies:
- Trust your first instinct for vocabulary
- Look for patterns in analogies
- Use elimination for multiple choice
- Focus on word relationships
Time Management:
30 minutes - Work quickly but accurately
Writing
Key Strategies:
- Plan your response before writing
- Structure your writing with clear paragraphs
- Use varied sentence structures
- Leave time for proofreading
Time Management:
40 minutes - 5 minutes planning, 30 minutes writing, 5 minutes reviewing
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
Understanding Your SEHS Results
Learn how to interpret your SEHS results and plan your next steps for selective school success.
Results Timeline
Results Release
SEHS results are released 9-10 weeks after the exam via email and online portal
Notification Process
Students receive detailed results including percentile rankings for each section
School Offers
Successful students receive school placement offers based on their preferences
Acceptance Deadline
Students must accept or decline their school offer by the specified deadline
Possible Outcomes & Next Steps
Successful Placement
Immediate Next Steps:
- Accept your school placement offer
- Complete enrollment documentation
- Attend orientation sessions
- Prepare for academic transition
Important Reminders:
- Celebrate your achievement
- Connect with other new students
- Review the school's academic expectations
- Plan your study schedule for Year 9
Waitlisted
Immediate Next Steps:
- Remain on the waitlist
- Consider backup school options
- Continue academic excellence
- Stay positive and patient
Important Reminders:
- Places may become available
- Focus on your current school performance
- Explore other excellent schools
- Remember this doesn't define your future
Not Selected
Immediate Next Steps:
- Explore alternative pathways
- Research other excellent schools
- Focus on personal growth
- Consider reapplying next year
Important Reminders:
- Success comes in many forms
- Your worth isn't defined by one test
- Many successful people didn't attend selective schools
- Focus on your strengths and interests
Alternative Educational Opportunities
High-Performing Government Schools
Many government schools offer excellent academic programs and opportunities
- Schools with specialized programs
- IB (International Baccalaureate) programs
- VCE enhancement programs
- STEM-focused schools
Private Schools
Independent schools with strong academic reputations and diverse programs
- Academic scholarship opportunities
- Specialized learning programs
- Small class sizes
- Extensive extracurricular activities
Pathway Programs
Alternative routes to achieve your academic and career goals
- VET (Vocational Education and Training) programs
- University pathway programs
- Accelerated learning opportunities
- Dual enrollment options
Support Resources for Families
Academic Support
Resources to help you continue excelling academically regardless of your school
- Online learning platforms
- Tutoring and coaching services
- Study groups and peer support
- Academic mentorship programs
Emotional Support
Help for managing disappointment and building resilience
- School counseling services
- Family support networks
- Peer support groups
- Professional counseling if needed
Future Planning
Guidance for making the most of your educational journey
- Career counseling services
- University preparation programs
- Skill development workshops
- Goal setting and planning tools
Maximize Your SEHS Success
Join our proven preparation program and give yourself the best chance of selective school success.
Victoria Selective Entry High Schools
Discover the four prestigious selective entry high schools in Victoria that use the SEHS exam for student admissions. These schools are known for their academic excellence and selective entry programs.
Melbourne High School
Selective Entry High School
Key Features
- Academic excellence and leadership focus
- Comprehensive extracurricular programs
- Strong university pathways
- Rich tradition since 1905
- Music, sports, and debate excellence
Unique Programs
Academic Excellence Program
Challenging curriculum designed for gifted students
Leadership Development
Comprehensive leadership and character development
Extracurricular Excellence
Music, sports, debate, and cultural programs
Application Process
Mac.Robertson Girls' High School
Selective Entry High School
Key Features
- Empowering young women in STEM and humanities
- Academic excellence tradition
- Innovation and research focus
- Strong alumni network
- Comprehensive support programs
Unique Programs
STEM Excellence
Advanced science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
Humanities Focus
Comprehensive humanities and social sciences programs
Research Opportunities
Access to cutting-edge research and innovation programs
Application Process
Suzanne Cory High School
Selective Entry High School
Key Features
- Innovative programs and modern learning environments
- Strong university partnerships
- Contemporary approach to education
- Technology integration
- Community engagement focus
Unique Programs
Innovation Programs
Cutting-edge technology and innovation initiatives
University Partnerships
Direct connections with leading universities
Modern Learning
Contemporary approaches to education and assessment
Application Process
Nossal High School
Selective Entry High School
Key Features
- Contemporary approach with emphasis on research
- Inquiry-based learning methodologies
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Strong academic outcomes
- Innovation and creativity focus
Unique Programs
Research Focus
Inquiry-based learning and research methodologies
Modern Facilities
State-of-the-art learning environments and technology
Innovation Programs
Creativity and innovation across all disciplines
Application Process
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Melbourne High School | Mac.Robertson Girls' High School | Suzanne Cory High School | Nossal High School |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gender | Boys only | Girls only | Co-educational | Co-educational |
| Location | South Yarra | Melbourne CBD | Werribee | Berwick |
| Special Focus | Leadership & Tradition | STEM & Humanities | Innovation & Partnerships | Research & Inquiry |
| Established | 1905 | 1934 | 2011 | 2010 |
Application Timeline
February 2025
- Applications open
- Information sessions
- Research schools
May 2025
- Applications close
- Final preparations
- Mock exams
June 2025
- SEHS examination
- Test completion
- Results processing
July 2025
- Results released
- Offers sent
- Enrollment decisions
Ready to Choose Your SEHS School?
Get expert guidance on selecting the best SEHS school for your child and start your preparation journey today.
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
Featured Success Story
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.
More Success Stories
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.
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.
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!
Aria A
The OC practice questions from Braintree were very similar to the real exam and complex enough to truly challenge kids. It's a great resource for serious preparation — highly recommend it!
Gagandeep Singh
Finding the right OC preparation was not easy. We tried a few options before settling with Braintree, and I can honestly say it was the best choice we made. The accuracy of the questions, the focus on real exam techniques, and the way they built my son's confidence were outstanding. Getting that acceptance letter was one of the proudest moments for our family. I'm grateful to Braintree for helping us through every step.
All reviews are sourced directly from our Google profile and represent genuine experiences from real families across Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all your SEHS questions about Victoria's selective entry high schools.
What is the pass rate for the SEHS in Victoria?
The SEHS operates as a competitive ranking system rather than a traditional pass/fail exam, with no fixed score threshold. Annually, about 5,000–6,000 students compete for roughly 1,000 places across the four selective schools, yielding an acceptance rate of approximately 20–25%. This rate fluctuates based on the overall performance of applicants. Places are allocated as 85% on merit from exam scores, 10% through equity provisions for disadvantaged backgrounds, and 5% via principal discretion.
How has the SEHS format changed in 2025?
Since transitioning to ACER administration in 2023, the SEHS format has stayed consistent, prioritizing higher-order thinking over memorization. For the 2025 exam (leading to 2026 entry), it remains a 4-hour session with sections on reading reasoning (35 minutes), mathematics reasoning (30 minutes), verbal general ability (30 minutes), quantitative general ability (30 minutes), and writing (40 minutes with two tasks). Questions continue to blend interdisciplinary elements, testing problem-solving and creativity aligned with the Year 8 curriculum.
Can international students apply for SEHS in Victoria?
International students are eligible only if they hold a visa or ImmiCard exempting them from international fees, in line with Australian policies. Fee-paying international students cannot apply. Applicants must be Australian or New Zealand citizens living in Australia or possess an eligible visa by the offer stage. Verification of visa status through the Department of Home Affairs is essential early in the process to prevent issues.
What are equity considerations in the SEHS process?
Equity provisions allocate up to 10% of places to talented students from disadvantaged groups, including low-income families or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds. Qualification requires submitting details like a Commonwealth Health Care Card or Pension Card CRN during application for verification. This category has no school-based caps, ensuring broader access without compromising standards.
How to prepare writing for SEHS?
The writing section, lasting 40 minutes with one persuasive and one creative task, assesses structure, originality, grammar, vocabulary, and topic relevance. Effective preparation involves weekly practice on varied prompts, targeting 400–600 words per piece with strong introductions, evidence-supported arguments, and concise conclusions. Incorporate diverse sentence structures and vivid language for impact.
What ATAR can I expect from selective schools in Victoria?
Victoria's selective schools consistently achieve exceptional ATAR results. Melbourne High School typically achieves a median ATAR of 95+, with Mac.Robertson Girls' High School achieving similar results. Suzanne Cory High School and Nossal High School also maintain median ATARs above 90. These schools provide excellent pathways to prestigious university programs and competitive career fields.
When should I start preparing for the SEHS exam?
Optimal preparation begins 12-18 months before the exam date, typically starting in Year 7 for Year 9 entry. This allows sufficient time to develop reasoning skills, build vocabulary, and master exam techniques. Early preparation reduces stress and allows for gradual skill development. Students who start preparation 6 months before the exam can still achieve success with intensive study.
What are the differences between the four selective schools?
Melbourne High School (boys only) emphasizes academic excellence and leadership. Mac.Robertson Girls' High School focuses on empowering young women in STEM and humanities. Suzanne Cory High School (co-educational) offers innovative programs and strong university partnerships. Nossal High School (co-educational) provides a contemporary approach with emphasis on research and inquiry-based learning.
Still Have Questions About SEHS Success?
Our SEHS experts are here to provide personalized guidance for your child's journey to Victoria's premier selective schools.