Brisbane State High School selects Year 7 students through the ACER HAST with a $420 non-refundable application fee and no alternative test dates. Year 5 applicants sit HAST-P; Year 6 applicants follow the standard pathway for 2027 entry.

Brisbane State High Selective Entry: Everything Parents Need to Know

We started researching Brisbane State High in Year 4 and felt overwhelmed by the process. Once we understood the timelines and what the HAST actually tests, we could plan properly — and our daughter earned her place in the Academic Selective program.

Michelle T., Parent, Brisbane South

Brisbane State High School (BSHS) is one of Queensland's most prestigious government secondary schools, and its Academic Selective Entry program is heavily oversubscribed year after year. The school uses the Higher Ability Selection Test (HAST) by ACER, with a single non-refundable fee of $420 and no alternative test dates. For structured preparation, see our BSHS preparation hub, exam format guide, prep strategies, BSHS Ultimate Pack, and sample reasoning paper.

** In this guide, you'll discover:**

BSHS's history and reputation — why it attracts thousands of applicants annually
The HAST test format — exactly what your child will face on test day
Year 5 conditional entry — the early pathway with transition activities and interviews
Year 6 standard entry — the main application route for Year 7 placement
Years 8–11 entry — how the limited mid-year intake process works
Fees, Qkr! payment, and Equity Bursaries — financial details and hardship support
The Aspire enrichment program — what selective students experience at BSHS
Key dates and deadlines — including confirmed 2026 test dates for 2026 and 2027 entry

What's Inside This Guide

Navigate every aspect of the BSHS Academic Selective Entry process

About Brisbane State High School
Understanding the Selection Process
HAST-P Test Format
Year 5 Conditional Entry
Year 6 Standard Entry
Entry in Years 8–11
Fees, Payment & Bursaries
The Aspire Enrichment Program
How to Prepare
Key Dates & Deadlines
Frequently Asked Questions

About Brisbane State High School

Brisbane State High School is a co-educational government secondary school located in South Brisbane, within walking distance of the CBD. Established in 1921, it is one of Queensland's oldest and most respected state high schools.

BSHS consistently ranks among the top-performing government schools in Queensland. Catering to approximately 3,200 students from Years 7 to 12, the school offers a broad curriculum — but it is the Academic Selective Entry pathway that attracts the most attention from families seeking a rigorous educational environment.

Brisbane State High at a Glance

Key facts about one of Queensland's premier government schools

1921: EstablishedOver a century of educational excellence in South Brisbane
3,200+: StudentsCo-educational Years 7–12 with comprehensive curriculum offerings
$420: Application FeeOne-off non-refundable fee covering Academic, Sporting, and Cultural categories
HAST: Entry TestHigher Ability Selection Test by ACER — the sole academic assessment

Why Is BSHS So Sought After?

The combination of a strong academic culture, government school affordability, central location with excellent public transport access, the dedicated Aspire enrichment program, and consistently strong university placement rates makes BSHS a priority choice for Queensland families.

This accessibility and quality makes the school heavily oversubscribed — a term you will encounter repeatedly in the application materials. In practical terms, it means that far more students apply and sit the test than there are places available, and only those who rank above the cut-off score are offered entry.

Understanding the Selection Process

Prepare for BSHS Selective Entry with Confidence

Structured courses, HAST-aligned practice tests, and expert guidance to help your child achieve their best

Explore Braintree Coaching Australia courses

The selection process centres on the Higher Ability Selection Test (HAST), developed by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER). The HAST assesses higher-order thinking, reasoning ability, and academic potential — not simply curriculum knowledge. It rewards students who think flexibly, draw inferences, and apply knowledge to unfamiliar problems.

Selection Criteria

For Year 7 entry, the school considers HAST results (primary determinant), school reports, and NAPLAN results (Year 6 applicants). For the Year 5 conditional pathway, additional factors include transition activity participation, an interview with the Leadership Team, and ongoing academic excellence through Year 6.

BSHS is clear that no past papers are available for the HAST, and that "best preparation is active engagement in current learning at Primary School." While this is true as a foundation, families who understand the test format are better positioned to support their child. Our BSHS exam format guide breaks down exactly what to expect.

HAST-P Test Format for Year 5 Applicants

Year 5 students sit the HAST-P (Primary) version of the test. This is a paper-based assessment comprising three sections, with a total testing time of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Detailed breakdown of each section for Year 5 applicants

HAST-P Test Components
Feature	Option 1	Option 2	Verdict
Reading Comprehension	Multiple Choice	35 minutes	Comprehension, inference, vocabulary
Mathematical Reasoning	Multiple Choice	35 minutes	Problem-solving, patterns, logic
Written Expression	Extended Writing	30 minutes	Structure, ideas, language use

Reading Comprehension (35 Minutes)

Students read text passages and answer multiple-choice questions assessing literal understanding, inferential reasoning, vocabulary in context, and author's purpose. Passages span narrative, informational, and persuasive genres.

Mathematical Reasoning (35 Minutes)

This section tests mathematical thinking and problem-solving rather than rote calculation. Students encounter number patterns, spatial reasoning, data interpretation, and multi-step word problems requiring flexible application of concepts.

Written Expression (30 Minutes)

Students produce a sustained piece of writing in response to a prompt. Assessors evaluate the quality of ideas, text structure, vocabulary range, sentence fluency, and conventions. Students who can plan quickly (2–3 minutes) and write with purpose perform best.

For a comprehensive breakdown with preparation strategies, see our BSHS exam format guide and HAST exam preparation resources.

Year 5 Conditional Entry Pathway

BSHS offers a conditional entry pathway for students currently in Year 5, allowing high-ability students to secure a conditional place up to two years before starting at the school.

Year 5 Conditional Entry Process

1.Submit Application and Payment
Parents lodge the selective entry application and pay the $420 non-refundable fee via the Qkr! app. This single fee covers Academic, Sporting, and Cultural selective entry categories.
2.Sit the HAST-P
Your child sits the HAST-P (Primary) test at the designated date and location. There are no alternative test dates — if your child misses the test, they cannot sit it later.
3.Receive Conditional Offer
Students who perform above the cut-off score receive a conditional offer of placement. This is not a guaranteed place — conditions must be met over the following 12–18 months.
4.Participate in Transition Activities
Conditionally accepted students participate in BSHS-organised transition activities designed to introduce them to the school environment, expectations, and peer group.
5.Interview with Leadership Team
Students attend an interview with the BSHS Leadership Team, which assesses their suitability for the program, their motivation, and their readiness for a selective academic environment.
6.Maintain Academic Excellence
Conditional offers require students to maintain a high level of academic performance throughout the remainder of Year 5 and all of Year 6. A significant decline in school results may result in the conditional offer being withdrawn.

Year 6 Standard Entry Pathway

The Year 6 standard entry pathway is the primary route into the BSHS Academic Selective program for Year 7. This is the pathway most families follow, and it is the most competitive.

How It Works

Students currently in Year 6 submit their application with the $420 fee, then sit the HAST at the designated test date. Results are ranked, and students who score above the annual cut-off are offered a place. The school also considers school reports and NAPLAN results as supplementary measures.

Unlike the Year 5 pathway, there is no interview or transition activity component. The HAST result is the dominant factor in determining whether your child receives an offer.

The process was straightforward once we understood it. Apply, pay the fee, sit the test. Our son prepared steadily over several months and scored well above the cut-off. The hardest part was the waiting.

James L., Parent, Brisbane West

What Happens After the Test?

Students are ranked by HAST score. Those above the cut-off receive an offer of enrolment. There is no published cut-off in advance — it varies each year depending on applicant numbers and score distribution. The school does not operate a formal waitlist, although limited places may become available if offered students decline.

For strategies to help your child perform at their best, explore our BSHS preparation strategies guide.

Entry in Years 8 to 11

BSHS also accepts selective entry applications for Years 8, 9, 10, and 11, although places are extremely limited — only available when an existing selective student departs.

Application fee: The same $420 one-off non-refundable fee applies
Application validity: Remains active and considered annually until Year 11
Annual updates required: Families must provide current school reports each year
Academic standard: Straight A's in English, Mathematics, Science, and HSIE are recommended
No HAST required: Entry is based on academic records and the school's assessment

Fees, Payment, and Equity Bursaries

The $420 Application Fee

BSHS charges a single non-refundable fee of $420 covering all selective entry categories — Academic, Sporting, and Cultural. You do not pay separately for each category.

Non-refundable regardless of outcome, including if your child does not sit the test
Payment method: The Qkr! app (by Mastercard) is the designated payment platform
One-off for Years 8–11: Covers the application for its full duration until Year 11

Equity Bursaries

Equity Bursaries are available for families experiencing genuine financial hardship. The school is committed to ensuring financial circumstances do not prevent talented students from accessing the program. Contact the enrolments team at bshsenrolments@brisbaneshs.eq.edu.au for confidential guidance before the application deadline.

The Aspire Enrichment Program

Students who gain entry through the Academic Selective pathway join the Aspire program — BSHS's dedicated enrichment stream. Aspire is not simply an accelerated curriculum; it is a distinct program designed to extend, challenge, and develop intellectually capable students.

What Aspire Offers

Extension coursework beyond the standard Queensland curriculum across core subjects
Critical thinking development through inquiry-based learning and interdisciplinary challenges
Academic peer group where every student has been assessed for high ability
Enrichment activities including academic competitions, guest lectures, and university partnerships
Ongoing requirements — students must maintain high academic standards; the school monitors performance and reviews students who consistently underperform

How to Prepare for the BSHS Selective Entry Test

BSHS states that the "best preparation is active engagement in current learning at Primary School." While this is a sound foundation, families who understand the HAST format and provide structured support can help their child perform at their best. Preparation should focus on building cognitive skills rather than memorising content.

BSHS Selective Entry Preparation Approach

Phase 1: Build a Strong Foundation
6–12 months before the test
- Develop a love of reading across diverse genres and text types
- Strengthen core mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills
- Build regular writing habits with varied prompts and styles
Read widely every day — novels, newspapers, science articles, opinion pieces · Practise challenging maths problems that require multi-step reasoning · Write regularly under light time constraints to build fluency · Discuss current events and ideas to develop critical thinking
Phase 2: Familiarise with the HAST Format
3–4 months before the test
- Understand the structure and timing of each HAST section
- Develop efficient strategies for multiple-choice and written responses
- Identify and address any areas of relative weakness
Work through HAST-style practice materials for reading and maths · Practise timed writing tasks (30 minutes: plan, write, review) · Complete section-by-section practice under realistic timing conditions · Review and learn from errors rather than simply repeating practice
Phase 3: Test Readiness
Final 2–4 weeks
- Build confidence and reduce test-day anxiety
- Consolidate strategies rather than introduce new content
- Establish a calm, positive test-day routine
Complete one or two full-length practice sessions under exam conditions · Focus revision on highest-impact areas identified through practice · Reduce study intensity in the final week — light review and rest · Discuss the test day logistics so your child knows exactly what to expect

Preparation Resources

Structured materials aligned to the HAST format can make a significant difference:

BSHS Selective Exam Preparation — structured course covering all HAST components
BSHS Practice Resources — targeted practice materials for reading, maths, and writing
Free Mock Tests — sample tests to build familiarity and confidence at no cost

Key Dates and Deadlines

There are no alternative test dates — if your child misses the scheduled test, they cannot sit it at another time.

BSHS Selective Entry Key Dates

Year 7 2026 Entry: HAST test date is Wednesday 30 April 2026
Year 7 2027 Entry: HAST test date is Wednesday 30 July 2026
Applications must be submitted with $420 payment before the relevant test date
Payment is made via the Qkr! app — download and set up your account well in advance
No alternative test dates are available under any circumstances
Years 8–11 applications can be submitted at any time and remain active until Year 11
Annual updates with current school reports are required for Years 8–11 applications
Contact bshsenrolments@brisbaneshs.eq.edu.au for all enrolment enquiries

FAQ

What test does Brisbane State High School use for selective entry?

BSHS uses the Higher Ability Selection Test (HAST), developed by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER). Year 5 applicants sit the HAST-P (Primary) version, which includes Reading Comprehension, Mathematical Reasoning, and Written Expression. The HAST assesses higher-order thinking and reasoning ability rather than curriculum knowledge alone.

How much does it cost to apply, and is the fee refundable?

The application fee is $420 — a single non-refundable payment covering all selective entry categories (Academic, Sporting, and Cultural). Payment is made through the Qkr! app. The fee is not refunded if your child does not sit the test or is not offered a place.

What is the difference between the Year 5 and Year 6 entry pathways?

Year 5 applicants receive a conditional offer if they score above the cut-off, then participate in transition activities, attend an interview with the Leadership Team, and must maintain academic excellence through Year 6. Year 6 applicants sit the HAST, are ranked by score, and receive a direct offer if above the cut-off. School reports and NAPLAN results are also considered.

Are there past papers available for the HAST?

No. BSHS states that no past papers are available. The official advice is that "best preparation is active engagement in current learning at Primary School." However, HAST-style practice materials are available through BrainTree Coaching, which offers structured resources aligned to the HAST format.

Can my child apply for selective entry in Years 8–11?

Yes, but places are extremely limited and only arise when an existing selective student departs. The same $420 fee applies, and the application remains active annually until Year 11. Families must update each year with current reports. Straight A's in English, Mathematics, Science, and HSIE are recommended.

What happens if my child misses the test date?

There are no alternative test dates available. If your child cannot attend for any reason — illness, travel, or scheduling conflict — they will not be able to sit the test for that entry year. This policy is applied without exception.

What does "heavily oversubscribed" mean for my child's chances?

It means significantly more students apply than there are places available. Students are ranked by HAST performance, and only those above the annual cut-off receive an offer. The cut-off varies each year and is not published in advance. There is no formal waitlist.

What is the Aspire program?

Aspire is BSHS's enrichment program for Academic Selective Entry students. It provides extension coursework, critical thinking development, enrichment activities, and an intellectually stimulating peer group. Students must maintain high academic standards throughout their enrolment.

Are Equity Bursaries available for the application fee?

Yes. BSHS offers Equity Bursaries for families experiencing genuine financial hardship. Contact bshsenrolments@brisbaneshs.eq.edu.au before the application deadline to discuss bursary options confidentially.

How should I pay the application fee?

Payment is made exclusively through the Qkr! app (by Mastercard). Download the app, create an account, and link it to Brisbane State High School well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

What is a good HAST score for Brisbane State High?

BSHS does not publish cut-off scores, and the threshold varies each year depending on the applicant pool and score distribution. Students are ranked by their HAST performance, and only those above the annual cut-off receive offers. While there is no publicly available benchmark, families should aim for their child to perform as strongly as possible across all three components — Reading Comprehension, Mathematical Reasoning, and Written Expression. Consistent preparation using HAST-aligned materials is the most reliable strategy.

How long is the BSHS HAST test?

The HAST-P (Primary) test for Year 5 and Year 6 applicants takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes (100 minutes total). This comprises Reading Comprehension (35 minutes), Mathematical Reasoning (35 minutes), and Written Expression (30 minutes). The test is paper-based, so your child should be comfortable with handwritten responses under timed conditions.

Can international students apply for Brisbane State High selective entry?

BSHS is a Queensland state school, and its selective entry program is primarily designed for students residing in Queensland. International students may have different enrolment pathways and should contact the school directly at bshsenrolments@brisbaneshs.eq.edu.au to clarify eligibility and any additional requirements. Standard selective entry fees and processes may differ for international applicants.

Does Brisbane State High have a catchment area for selective entry?

No. Unlike local enrolment at state schools, the Academic Selective Entry pathway at BSHS has no catchment restrictions. Students from anywhere in Queensland can apply and, if successful, attend the school. Many selective entry students commute from suburbs across Greater Brisbane and beyond. The school is located in South Brisbane with excellent public transport access, including South Brisbane and South Bank train stations.

What happens after my child receives a conditional offer in Year 5?

After receiving a Year 5 conditional offer, your child must maintain academic excellence, strong attendance, and positive effort and behaviour throughout the remainder of Year 5 and all of Year 6. They will also participate in BSHS-organised transition activities and attend an interview with the Leadership Team. If all conditions are met, the conditional offer converts to confirmed enrolment for Year 7. A significant decline in performance or engagement may result in the offer being reviewed.

Related Guides

BSHS Selective Exam Preparation — Structured courses and materials for every HAST section
BSHS Test Day Guide — What to expect and how to prepare for the day itself
BSHS Practice Resources — Targeted practice for reading, maths, and writing
BSHS preparation hub — HAST pathway overview for Queensland families
Free mock tests — Build test familiarity and confidence at no cost

Try a HAST-style mock before test day

Free mock tests show how your child handles reading, mathematical reasoning, and timed writing under exam conditions.

Try a free mock test View BSHS courses

Article body