What is the Scholarship Test?

Most private schools use the ACER or private provider test as an entry exam to a scholarship for the school. The tests determine the academic performance of the students. Based on the test results, schools may decide to offer a full or a partial scholarship to cover the cost of tuition fees.

Whether it is the ACER test or others, the areas assessed are similar:

• Mathematics – with a high level of reasoning and not just knowledge based
• Reading comprehension – using various genres and several levels of different type of questions
• Critical thinking – using both inductive and deductive reasoning
• Writing – persuasive and creative/narrative writing are both tested

There are two ways to sit for the test.

• Cooperative– the test date is determined by ACER. Usually around February/March. Students may register with several schools (you need to contact the school to check the dates and the application forms). The test results for each student will be sent to all schools with which the student is registered. Keep in mind that each school will charge for registration fees.
• Alternate– the date is selected by the school.

In both cases, the test is written, supervised, marked and results are sent to schools by ACER or private provider.

At GEA we prepare students to sit the exams. The recommended program is similar to our Selective Test Preparation Course. In this program, students are taught all the components needed to excel in the test.

English

• Expose students to all genres for Reading Comprehension
• All levels of Reading Comprehension:
  • Literacy (Level 1)
  • Interpretation (Level 2)
  • Critical Reading (Level 3 & 4)
• Taught by qualified teachers
• Emphasis on assessed skills

Writing

• Creative and imaginary texts that are enhanced by the inclusion of language forms, features, devices and expressions
• Persuasive writing section to accommodate for the specific test features of the Scholarship Test

Thinking Skills

• Critical thinking
• Creative thinking
• Reading reasoning
• Logical reasoning
• Problem solving
• Lateral thinking

Maths

• Work on all concepts assessed
• A unique strategy for problem solving: UPSL (understand, plan, solve and learn)
• Taught by ICAS writers
• Strategies and techniques for multiple choice questions

Thinking Skills

• Mathematical reasoning
• Problem solving
• Logical thinking
• Mathematical deductions
• Spatial reasoning skills

Weekly program throughout each term of Year 5. Includes 5-Days intensive preparation over the January Holidays and 5 weeks in Year 6 Term 1.

Each term, your child will receive their own GEA Selective Program books. The program includes 8 mock tests (3 hours each) and each with comprehensive feedback.

Exam Techniques

• 8 mock tests with comprehensive feedback to become familiar with the test
• Time management
• MCQ tips
• Maximising marks
• Work with the writing criteria to maximise marks

Cognitive Load Techniques

• Stress management
• Boosting students’ self-esteem
• Building independence and mastery