Queensland Academies Application 2026-2027: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Applying to a Queensland Academy means creating a QA Portal account, uploading required documents, paying the $250 fee, and submitting before the August deadline. Your child then sits the EduTest in September. You may submit only one application per year across QASMT, QACI, and QAHS.

How to Apply for Queensland Academies in 30 Seconds

To apply for a Queensland Academy (QASMT, QACI or QAHS), create an account on the QA Portal at qaportal.aucrm.com, upload required documents (birth certificate, school reports, NAPLAN results, photo), pay the $250 non-refundable fee, and submit before the August deadline. You may only submit one application per year across all three campuses. Year 7 entry is available at QASMT only (apply in Year 5). Year 10 entry is available at all three campuses (apply in Year 8). After submission, your child sits the Edutest entrance exam in September, and top performers are invited to interview. The QASMT acceptance rate is approximately 10 to 15 per cent, with 8 to 12 applicants competing for each Year 7 place.

How to Apply for Queensland Academies: Everything You Need to Know

The Queensland Academies application process is one of the most consequential steps in your child's educational journey. With acceptance rates hovering between 10 and 15 per cent and competition ratios reaching 15 applicants per place, submitting a complete, accurate, and well-prepared application is essential — not optional.

Queensland's three selective academies — QASMT (Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology), the Queensland Academy of Creative Industries (QACI), and the Queensland Academies Health Sciences campus (QAHS) — each deliver the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in partnership with leading universities. But before your child can access any of that, you need to navigate an application process that has specific rules, strict deadlines, and zero tolerance for incomplete submissions.

Whether you're targeting Year 7 entry at QASMT (the only campus accepting younger students) or Year 10 entry across any of the three campuses, this guide walks you through every detail — from choosing the right campus to submitting your application through the QA Portal, gathering documents, paying the fee, and preparing for the interview stage.

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

• The complete step-by-step application process from start to finish
• Which campuses accept Year 7 and Year 10 applicants — and why it matters
• Every document you need to gather before you start the online application
• How the QA Portal (qaportal.aucrm.com) works and why you cannot edit after submission
• The critical one-application rule and what it means for campus selection
• Application fees, payment details, and refund policy
• What happens at the interview stage and who gets invited
• The full selection criteria breakdown — Edutest weighting, NAPLAN, school reports, and more
• A practical timeline for the 2026-2027 application cycle

Understanding the Three Campuses

Before you begin the Queensland Academies application, you need to understand exactly what you're applying for. Queensland operates three distinct selective academies, each specialising in a different academic discipline and partnered with a major Queensland university.

All three academies deliver the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) leading into the IB Diploma Programme (DP). The IB Diploma is internationally recognised and highly regarded by Australian and global universities. However, the academic culture and specialisation at each campus differs significantly — a factor that should drive your campus choice more than geography or reputation alone.

For a detailed comparison to help you decide, see our Queensland Academies campus selection guide.

Year 7 vs Year 10 Entry — Which Applies to Your Child

One of the most common points of confusion in the QASMT entry process is understanding the two different entry points and their eligibility requirements.

Year 7 Entry — QASMT Only

Year 7 entry is available exclusively at QASMT. Neither QACI nor QAHS accepts students at this level. If your child is currently in Year 5, they are eligible to apply for Year 7 entry at QASMT for the following year.

Year 7 is the primary intake for QASMT and typically the most competitive, with approximately 8 to 12 applicants competing for each available place. The QASMT entrance exam Year 7 is an Edutest-based assessment that all applicants must complete. Students who enter at Year 7 begin the IB Middle Years Programme and continue through to the Diploma Programme in Years 11 and 12.

Year 10 Entry — All Three Campuses

Year 10 entry is available at all three campuses — QASMT, QACI, and QAHS. If your child is currently in Year 8, they are eligible to apply for Year 10 entry. Year 10 serves as the pre-IB year, preparing students for the full IB Diploma Programme starting in Year 11.

Year 10 entry is intensely competitive, with approximately 10 to 15 applicants per place and a QASMT acceptance rate of roughly 10 to 15 per cent across all three campuses. This makes the Queensland Academies among the most selective government schools in Australia.

The One-Application Rule — Choosing Your Campus

This is one of the most important rules in the entire Queensland Academies application process, and many families discover it too late:

You may only submit ONE application per year across all three Queensland Academies campuses.

This means you cannot apply to QASMT and QACI simultaneously. You cannot submit applications to QAHS and QASMT in the same round. You must choose a single campus and commit to it with your one application.

Additionally, students cannot transfer between campuses once enrolled. If your child is accepted at QACI, they cannot later move to QASMT or QAHS. This makes your initial campus choice a binding decision for the duration of your child's enrolment.

How to Make the Right Campus Choice

Given the stakes, your campus decision deserves serious deliberation:

• Match your child's genuine interests — not what you think sounds most impressive
• Attend open days at your preferred campus to experience the culture firsthand
• Consider location and commute — daily travel impacts wellbeing and study time
• Research the university partnership — each offers different opportunities and exposure
• Talk to current families if possible — firsthand insights are invaluable

For families struggling with this decision, our campus selection guide provides a detailed framework for choosing the right fit.

Documents Required for Your Application

Before you begin the online application, gather every required document. The QA Portal does not allow editing after submission, so having everything prepared in advance is essential. Missing or incomplete documents can result in your application being considered ineligible.

A Note on NAPLAN Results

While NAPLAN is not the sole determinant, top-band NAPLAN results form part of the holistic assessment. If your child has consistently performed in the upper NAPLAN bands, ensure these results are included and clearly presented. NAPLAN data provides the selection panel with an independent benchmark of your child's academic performance relative to national standards.

Medical and Giftedness Documentation

These documents are not required from all applicants, but if your child has been formally identified as gifted through psychometric testing, or has medical conditions that may be relevant to their education, include the appropriate documentation. Gifted identification can provide additional context for the selection panel when reviewing your child's overall profile.

Step-by-Step Application Process

The Queensland Academies application follows a structured sequence. Understanding each step before you begin ensures nothing is missed.

The QA Portal — Submitting Your Application Online

All Queensland Academies applications are submitted through the official online portal at qaportal.aucrm.com. This is the only accepted method of application — paper applications are not available.

Key Portal Details

• URL: qaportal.aucrm.com — bookmark this and ensure you are on the correct site
• Account required: You must create a parent account with a valid email address
• Document uploads: Have all documents in digital format (PDF preferred) before starting
• No editing after submission: Once you click submit, the application is locked — you cannot go back to make changes
• Confirmation email: Save the confirmation you receive as proof of your submission

Tips for a Smooth Portal Experience

Many families encounter avoidable issues during the online submission. Follow these practical tips:

• Use a desktop or laptop computer rather than a mobile device for better compatibility
• Have a stable internet connection — avoid submitting on public or unreliable Wi-Fi
• Keep file sizes reasonable — large scans may cause upload timeouts
• Name your files clearly (e.g., "Smith_BirthCertificate.pdf") for easy identification
• Complete the application in one sitting if possible, or save your progress regularly if the portal allows

Application Fees and Payment

The Queensland Academies charge a non-refundable application fee that must be paid as part of the submission process.

The fee is payable through the portal during the application process. Payment must be completed for the application to be considered — an unpaid application will not progress to the assessment stage.

Given that this fee is non-refundable and you can only apply to one campus per year, it reinforces the importance of being certain about your campus choice before submitting.

The Edutest Entrance Examination

Once your application is submitted and accepted, your child will be invited to sit the Edutest entrance examination. This is the primary assessment tool used by all three Queensland Academies to evaluate applicants.

Test Components

The total testing time is approximately three hours including breaks. The test is designed with a completion rate of around 50 per cent — meaning most students are not expected to answer every question. Speed, accuracy, and strategic question selection all matter.

Written Expression is assessed for Year 7 applicants only. This 15-minute writing task evaluates your child's ability to produce a coherent, well-structured piece of writing under time pressure. Year 10 applicants do not sit this component.

For a detailed breakdown of each test section and targeted preparation strategies, see our Queensland Academies exam format guide.

The Interview Stage

Not every applicant reaches the interview stage. Only top-performing candidates — those who demonstrate exceptional results across the Edutest and supporting documentation — are invited for an interview.

What the Interview Assesses

The interview provides the selection panel with an opportunity to evaluate aspects of your child that a written test cannot capture:

• Genuine motivation — why your child wants to attend the specific academy
• Academic interests — depth of engagement with the campus's field of specialisation
• Communication skills — ability to articulate thoughts clearly and confidently
• Suitability — whether your child will thrive in the IB Diploma environment
• Character and maturity — readiness for the demands of an accelerated academic programme

How to Prepare for the Interview

While the interview is not something you can "cram" for, your child can prepare meaningfully:

• Research the academy — understand its programmes, values, and university partnership
• Reflect on personal interests — be ready to discuss specific academic passions and experiences
• Practise articulating ideas — hold informal conversations about topics your child cares about
• Prepare thoughtful questions — asking genuine questions demonstrates interest and engagement
• Be authentic — the panel is looking for genuine passion, not rehearsed answers

How Selection Decisions Are Made

The Queensland Academies use a holistic selection model — no single factor determines whether your child receives an offer. There are no published cutoff scores, and the process considers multiple data points in combination.

Selection Criteria Weighting

Based on published guidelines, the selection process weighs the following factors:

• Edutest results (~50-60%) — the entrance examination is the most heavily weighted component
• School reports — the two most recent semester reports are reviewed for academic achievement, teacher comments, and effort grades
• NAPLAN results — top-band performance provides an independent benchmark of academic ability
• Interview performance — for shortlisted candidates, the interview contributes to the final decision
• Supporting documentation — giftedness identification, medical information, and any additional context

What Makes a Competitive Application

Given the holistic nature of selection, the strongest applications demonstrate:

• Consistently strong Edutest results across all components (not just one or two)
• Top-band NAPLAN performance across literacy and numeracy
• School reports showing high achievement, positive teacher assessments, and strong work habits
• A clear alignment between the student's interests and the chosen campus's academic focus
• For interviewed candidates — genuine enthusiasm, articulate communication, and authentic engagement

For insights into past results and what successful applicants typically demonstrate, visit our Queensland Academies results page.

Application Timeline for 2026-2027 Entry

The Queensland Academies follow a consistent annual cycle. While exact dates should always be confirmed directly with the academies, the following timeline reflects the established pattern.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child apply to more than one Queensland Academy in the same year?

No. The Queensland Academies enforce a strict one-application-per-year rule across all three campuses. You must choose a single campus — QASMT, QACI, or QAHS — and submit your application to that campus only. You cannot hedge your options by applying to multiple academies simultaneously.

When should my child apply for Year 7 entry at QASMT?

Your child should apply when they are in Year 5 for entry into Year 7 the following year. Year 7 entry is available at QASMT only — neither QACI nor QAHS accepts Year 7 applicants.

When should my child apply for Year 10 entry?

Applications for Year 10 entry should be submitted when your child is in Year 8. All three campuses — QASMT, QACI, and QAHS — accept Year 10 applicants.

Can I edit my application after submitting it on the QA Portal?

No. Applications cannot be edited or amended once submitted through qaportal.aucrm.com. This includes changes to personal details, uploaded documents, and campus preferences. Treat your submission as final and review everything thoroughly before clicking submit.

Is the $250 application fee refundable?

No. The $250 fee (domestic) or $270 fee (international) is non-refundable regardless of whether your child is offered a place, declines an offer, or withdraws from the process.

What documents do I need for the application?

You will need a recent photograph of your child, birth certificate, citizenship or residency documentation, two most recent semester school reports, NAPLAN results, and any relevant medical or giftedness documentation. Have all documents in digital format before starting the portal.

Does every applicant get an interview?

No. Only top-performing candidates are invited to an interview. The interview stage is the final component of the selection process and is reserved for applicants who have demonstrated exceptional performance across the Edutest and supporting documentation.

Can my child transfer between campuses after enrolment?

No. Transfers between Queensland Academies campuses are not permitted. Once your child is enrolled at one academy, they remain at that campus for the duration of their enrolment. This is why selecting the right campus from the outset is so critical.

What are the Edutest components and how long is the test?

The Edutest covers four components for all applicants: Verbal Reasoning (30 questions, 30 minutes), Numerical Reasoning (30 questions, 30 minutes), Reading Comprehension (30 questions, 30 minutes), and Mathematics (30 questions, 30 minutes). Year 7 applicants also complete a Written Expression task (15 minutes). Total testing time is approximately three hours including breaks.

How competitive is entry to the Queensland Academies?

Extremely competitive. Year 7 entry at QASMT sees approximately 8 to 12 applicants per place, while Year 10 entry across all campuses attracts approximately 10 to 15 applicants per place. The overall acceptance rate is roughly 10 to 15 per cent.

What is the QASMT acceptance rate for Year 7 entry?

The QASMT acceptance rate for Year 7 entry is approximately 8 to 13 per cent, based on roughly 8 to 12 applicants competing for each available place. This makes the QASMT entrance exam Year 7 one of the most competitive selective school assessments in Queensland. The exact rate fluctuates each year depending on the applicant pool size and available places.

Is there a catchment area for Queensland Academies?

No. There is no geographic catchment restriction for any of the three Queensland Academies. Students from anywhere in Queensland — and eligible interstate or international students — may apply to QASMT (Toowong), the Queensland Academy of Creative Industries (Kelvin Grove), or the Queensland Academies Health Sciences campus (Gold Coast). However, families should consider the daily commute, as students must attend campus each school day.

Can interstate or international students apply to Queensland Academies?

Yes. Interstate students who will be Queensland residents by the time of enrolment may apply. International students on appropriate visas are also eligible, though they pay the higher $270 application fee (compared to $250 for domestic applicants). International applicants should check specific visa and residency requirements directly with the Queensland Academies admissions team at admissions@qa.eq.edu.au.

What happens if I miss the Queensland Academies application deadline?

Late applications are generally not accepted once the official closing date has passed. The Queensland Academies enforce strict deadlines because the Edutest entrance examination is scheduled shortly after applications close. If you miss the deadline, your child will need to wait and apply in the next annual cycle. In rare circumstances, late applications may be considered — contact the admissions team directly to enquire.

How do I choose between QASMT, QACI and QAHS?

Choose based on your child's genuine academic interests, not perceived prestige. QASMT suits students passionate about science, mathematics, and technology. The Queensland Academy of Creative Industries (QACI) is ideal for those deeply engaged in creative arts, film, music, or design. The Queensland Academies Health Sciences campus (QAHS) is the best fit for students interested in medicine, biomedical science, or allied health. Since you can only submit one application per year and campus transfers are not permitted, this decision deserves careful deliberation. Attending open days at your preferred campus is strongly recommended.

Related Guides

• EduTest selective exam preparation hub — the test the Queensland Academies use
• Queensland Academies preparation course
• EduTest exam format — complete breakdown
• Queensland Academies FAQ
• EduTest practice resources
• Free mock tests for selective school entry

Once your application is submitted, preparation for the September EduTest is the next priority. Download a free EduTest sample paper to benchmark your child's current level, then build a structured plan with the Queensland Academies Ultimate Pack.