Queensland Academies Test 2026: Complete Guide to QASMT, QACI & QAHS Entry
Queensland Academies Test 2026 guide — QASMT, QACI, QAHS entry requirements, Edutest format, and preparation strategies.
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The Queensland Academies entrance test is an EduTest-based assessment conducted over two consecutive days in September. It covers five components — Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics (each 30Q/30min), and Writing (15min, Year 7 only) — and is used by all three campuses: QASMT, QACI, and QAHS.
Queensland Academies Edutest 2026: Quick Answer
The Queensland Academies entrance test is an Edutest-based assessment conducted over two consecutive days (typically Saturday and Sunday in September). It covers five components: Verbal Reasoning (30 questions, 30 minutes), Numerical Reasoning (30 questions, 30 minutes), Reading Comprehension (30 questions, 30 minutes), Mathematics (30 questions, 30 minutes), and Writing (one task, 15 minutes — Year 7 only). The test is used by all three campuses: QASMT, QACI and QAHS. Total testing time is approximately three hours per day including breaks. The Edutest is designed so most students complete only about 50 per cent of questions — speed, accuracy and strategic question selection all matter. Preparation should begin 9 to 12 months before the test using Edutest practice tests and structured reasoning skill-building.
Queensland Academies Test 2026: Everything Parents Need to Know
The Queensland Academies represent the pinnacle of academically selective education in Queensland. Unlike the selective school systems in New South Wales or Victoria, Queensland operates a unique three-campus model, with each academy specialising in a distinct field of study and partnered with a leading Queensland university.
For families considering a Queensland Academies placement in 2026, understanding the differences between each campus, the application timeline, and the test format is essential. The process is competitive, and preparation needs to be both strategic and thorough.
In this guide, you'll discover:
- The key differences between QASMT, QACI, and QAHS — and which suits your child
- Exact entry points for Year 7 and Year 10 across all three campuses
- The application timeline, fees, and critical deadlines for the 2026 cycle
- A detailed breakdown of all five test components (Verbal, Numerical, Reading, Maths, Writing)
- Why the two-day testing format requires specific preparation strategies
- How university partnerships shape the learning experience at each academy
- A structured preparation timeline to build your child's readiness
- Common mistakes families make — and how to avoid them
What's Inside This Guide
Navigate to the section most relevant to your child's Queensland Academies journey.
What Are the Queensland Academies?
The Queensland Academies are three government-funded selective schools offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. Each campus focuses on a specific academic discipline and operates in partnership with a major Queensland university, giving students access to facilities, mentors, and learning experiences that extend well beyond a typical secondary school.
The three campuses are:
- Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology (QASMT) — located in Toowong (also known as Queensland Academy Toowong), partnered with the University of Queensland (UQ)
- Queensland Academy of Creative Industries (QACI) — located in Kelvin Grove, partnered with the Queensland University of Technology (QUT)
- Queensland Academies Health Sciences (QAHS) — located on the Gold Coast, partnered with Griffith University
Each academy has its own distinct identity, entry requirements, and academic focus. Importantly, students cannot transfer between campuses once enrolled. This means choosing the right academy from the outset is a decision that deserves careful thought.
All three academies deliver the IB Diploma, which is recognised internationally and regarded highly by Australian and global universities. The combination of selective entry, the IB framework, and direct university partnerships creates an educational experience that is genuinely distinctive within the Queensland system.
Queensland Academies at a Glance
Key facts about Queensland's three selective academies
- 3
- Selective CampusesQASMT, QACI, and QAHS across South-East Queensland
- IB Diploma
- CurriculumInternationally recognised programme delivered at all three
- 3
- University PartnersUQ, QUT, and Griffith provide facilities and mentorship
- $250
- Application FeeNon-refundable fee per application
QASMT — Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology
QASMT is the most well-known of the three academies and the only campus that accepts students at both Year 7 and Year 10. Located in Toowong in Brisbane's inner west, it sits adjacent to the University of Queensland's St Lucia campus, giving students direct access to UQ laboratories, libraries, and academic staff.
Academic Focus
QASMT's programme centres on science, mathematics, and technology. Students engage in extended research projects, participate in science competitions, and have opportunities to work alongside UQ researchers. The IB Diploma subjects available reflect this focus, with strong offerings across the experimental sciences, mathematics, and technology-related disciplines.
Entry Points
- Year 7 entry — This is the primary intake and the most competitive. Students sit the QASMT entrance exam Year 7 (an Edutest-based assessment) in the year prior to entry.
- Year 10 entry — A smaller intake is available for students wishing to commence the IB Diploma in Year 11. Year 10 serves as the pre-IB preparation year. The QASMT entrance exam at this level is calibrated to Year 8/9 standards.
Who Is QASMT Best Suited For?
QASMT is ideal for students who demonstrate strong aptitude and genuine interest in STEM subjects. If your child loves problem-solving, is curious about how things work, and enjoys mathematics and science, QASMT is the natural fit.
QASMT is not just about academic results — it's about nurturing young people who are genuinely passionate about science and innovation. The UQ partnership opens doors that simply aren't available elsewhere in the state school system.
QACI — Queensland Academy for Creative Industries
QACI is located at Kelvin Grove in inner-city Brisbane, co-located with the Queensland University of Technology's Creative Industries Precinct. This is one of the most vibrant creative and digital media hubs in Australia, and QACI students benefit directly from that environment.
Academic Focus
QACI's programme is built around the creative industries — encompassing visual arts, film, digital media, music, theatre, writing, and design. The academy combines the rigour of the IB Diploma with rich creative practice, producing graduates who are both academically strong and creatively accomplished.
Entry Points
- Year 10 only — QACI does not accept Year 7 students. Entry is at Year 10, which serves as the foundation year before commencing the IB Diploma in Year 11.
Who Is QACI Best Suited For?
QACI suits students who are academically capable and deeply engaged with creative pursuits. It is not an "easy" alternative — the IB Diploma is demanding, and students must balance creative practice with the full academic rigour of the programme. If your child is passionate about storytelling, design, performance, or digital creation alongside strong academic work, QACI is worth serious consideration.
QAHS — Queensland Academy for Health Sciences
QAHS is based on the Gold Coast, adjacent to Griffith University's health and medical precinct. It is the newest of the three academies and serves students from the Gold Coast, Logan, and broader South-East Queensland region.
Academic Focus
QAHS focuses on health sciences, biomedical science, and allied health disciplines. Students benefit from Griffith University's expertise in medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy, and health research. The IB Diploma subject selections reflect this focus, with strong science, biology, and health-related offerings.
Entry Points
- Year 10 only — Like QACI, entry to QAHS is at Year 10, with Year 10 serving as the pre-IB year before commencing the Diploma programme in Year 11.
Who Is QAHS Best Suited For?
QAHS is an excellent choice for students drawn to health, medicine, and biomedical sciences. If your child aspires to a career in medicine, nursing, allied health, sports science, or health research, QAHS provides a uniquely focused pathway. The Griffith University partnership means students can gain early exposure to clinical and research environments that most school students never experience.
Comparing the Three Campuses
Choosing between the three academies is one of the most important decisions in this process. The table below highlights the key differences to help you make an informed choice.
Key differences between QASMT, QACI, and QAHS to guide your decision
| Feature | Option 1 | Option 2 | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Toowong, Brisbane | Kelvin Grove, Brisbane / Gold Coast | QACI in Brisbane; QAHS on Gold Coast |
| University Partner | University of Queensland (UQ) | QUT (QACI) / Griffith (QAHS) | All three are leading Queensland universities |
| Academic Focus | Science, Maths & Technology | Creative Industries (QACI) / Health Sciences (QAHS) | Choose based on your child's passion |
| Year 7 Entry | Yes — primary intake | No — Year 10 only for both | Only QASMT offers Year 7 entry |
| Year 10 Entry | Yes — smaller intake | Yes — sole intake point | All three accept Year 10 applicants |
| Curriculum | IB Diploma | IB Diploma | Identical programme structure across all |
| Campus Transfer | Not permitted | Not permitted | Choose carefully — no transfers allowed |
Application Process & Timeline
The Queensland Academies application process follows a consistent annual cycle. Based on the established pattern (where applications for 2027 entry close on 20 August 2026, with testing on 6–7 September 2026), the 2026 entry cycle follows a similar structure in the preceding year.
Key Steps in the Application Process
Queensland Academies Application — Step by Step
1.Research and Choose Your Campus
Review the academic focus, location, and university partnership of each campus. Attend open days or virtual information sessions when available. Remember: you can only apply to one campus per year.
2.Prepare Your Application
Gather the required documents including school reports, proof of identity, and any supporting information. Ensure your child meets the eligibility criteria for the entry year you are targeting.
3.Submit Online Application and Pay the Fee
Complete the online application through the Queensland Academies portal. Pay the $250 non-refundable application fee. Applications typically close in August of the year before entry.
4.Attend the Two-Day Entrance Test
Your child will sit the Queensland Academies entrance test, which is conducted over two consecutive days (typically in September). The test is EduTest-based and covers five components.
5.Await Results and Offers
Results are communicated after the assessment period. If your child receives an offer, you will need to accept it within the specified timeframe. Offers are made based on overall performance across all test components.
6.Accept and Enrol
Once you accept the offer, complete the enrolment process as directed by the academy. Begin preparing your child for the transition to the Queensland Academies environment.
Application Fees and Rules
- The application fee is $250 and is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome.
- Families may submit only one application per year — choose your preferred campus carefully.
- Transfers between campuses are not permitted after enrolment.
Test Format & Components
The Queensland Academies entrance test is an EduTest-based assessment conducted over two consecutive days. This is a distinctive feature — unlike most selective school tests in Australia, which are completed in a single sitting, the Queensland Academies test is spread across two sessions, allowing a broader range of skills to be assessed without excessive fatigue.
The Five Test Components
The test covers five areas, each designed to evaluate a different dimension of your child's academic ability:
1. Verbal Reasoning Assesses vocabulary, verbal logic, analogies, and the ability to identify relationships between words and concepts. This component measures your child's capacity for language-based reasoning beyond simple comprehension.
2. Numerical Reasoning Evaluates mathematical reasoning, number patterns, sequences, and the ability to work with quantitative information logically. This is not a straightforward maths test — it emphasises reasoning and problem-solving over rote calculation.
3. Reading Comprehension Tests the ability to read, understand, and analyse written passages. Questions may involve inference, identifying main ideas, understanding vocabulary in context, and evaluating an author's purpose or argument.
4. Mathematics A more traditional mathematics assessment covering curriculum-aligned content. Students should be confident with the mathematical concepts expected at their year level, including operations, fractions, decimals, geometry, measurement, and basic algebra.
5. Writing Assesses the ability to produce a coherent, well-structured piece of writing under timed conditions. Markers evaluate content, structure, language use, vocabulary, and overall fluency. Strong writing demonstrates clear thinking and effective communication.
Preparation Strategy & Timeline
Preparing for the Queensland Academies entrance test requires a structured, long-term approach. Because the test covers five distinct components across two days, your child needs to build skills across verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, reading comprehension, mathematics, and writing — not just one or two areas.
Queensland Academies Preparation Timeline
Phase 1: Foundation Building
12–9 Months Before the Test
- Build core skills across all five test components
- Identify strengths and areas needing development
Complete a diagnostic assessment to benchmark current ability · Establish a daily reading habit with varied text types (articles, editorials, fiction, non-fiction) · Practise verbal reasoning with analogies, synonyms, antonyms, and word relationship exercises · Review and consolidate year-level mathematics concepts · Begin weekly timed writing practice on varied topics
Phase 2: Skill Development
9–4 Months Before the Test
- Strengthen weaker areas while maintaining strengths
- Build familiarity with EduTest-style question formats
Work through structured practice materials aligned to the EduTest format · Practise numerical reasoning with pattern recognition and sequence problems · Complete reading comprehension exercises with increasing text complexity · Write under timed conditions weekly, focusing on structure and vocabulary · Review incorrect answers to identify recurring mistake patterns
Phase 3: Test Readiness
4–1 Months Before the Test
- Build exam stamina for the two-day testing format
- Refine time management and test technique
Complete full-length practice tests under realistic timed conditions · Simulate the two-day format by doing practice sessions on consecutive days · Focus on time allocation — learn when to move on from difficult questions · Refine writing technique: practise planning, drafting, and editing within the time limit · Build confidence through regular, low-pressure review of progress
Phase 4: Final Preparation
Final 4 Weeks
- Consolidate all skills and build confidence
- Establish a healthy routine for test days
Light review only — avoid cramming or introducing new content · Complete one final practice test in each component for confidence · Plan test-day logistics: travel, meals, sleep schedule for both days · Practise relaxation techniques to manage test-day nerves · Ensure your child feels well-rested and supported going into the test weekend
Key Preparation Principles
Balance across all five components. It is tempting to focus heavily on one or two areas, but the Queensland Academies test assesses breadth. A significant weakness in any single component can undermine an otherwise strong application. Use Edutest practice tests regularly to identify and address gaps across all sections.
Practise under timed conditions. Time management is a skill in itself. Your child should become comfortable working efficiently within time limits, knowing when to move on from a challenging question rather than losing valuable minutes.
Build writing fluency early. Writing is often the component families leave until last, yet it is one of the hardest to improve quickly. Regular writing practice — even short, daily exercises — builds the fluency and confidence needed for a strong performance.
Simulate the two-day format. The consecutive-day structure is unusual, and your child should experience it before the real test. Running Edutest practice test sessions on a Saturday and Sunday helps build the stamina and mental resilience needed for two days of focused assessment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Through years of helping Queensland families prepare for the academies, several common pitfalls emerge consistently:
Mistakes to Avoid in Your Queensland Academies Preparation
Applying to the wrong campus — choose based on genuine academic interest, not perceived prestige
Starting preparation too late — the five-component test requires months of consistent skill-building
Neglecting writing practice — strong writing takes time to develop and cannot be crammed in the final weeks
Focusing only on maths and ignoring verbal reasoning — the test assesses a broad range of abilities
Not practising under timed conditions — speed and accuracy together are essential
Forgetting to simulate the two-day format — consecutive test days require stamina
Over-preparing in the final week — rest and confidence matter more than last-minute cramming
Not attending open days — understanding the campus culture helps confirm the right choice
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my child apply to more than one Queensland Academy in the same year?
No. The Queensland Academies allow one application per year. You must choose a single campus — QASMT, QACI, or QAHS — and submit your application accordingly. This makes your campus choice a critical first decision.
What year levels can my child enter the Queensland Academies?
QASMT accepts students at both Year 7 and Year 10. QACI and QAHS accept students at Year 10 only. Year 7 entry at QASMT is the largest intake and the most competitive.
Can my child transfer between campuses after being accepted?
No. Transfers between Queensland Academies campuses are not permitted. Once your child is enrolled at one academy, they cannot move to another. This is why choosing the right campus from the start is so important.
What is the test format?
The test is an EduTest-based assessment conducted over two consecutive days (historically a Saturday and Sunday in September). It covers five components: Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics, and Writing.
How much does it cost to apply?
The application fee is $250 and is non-refundable, regardless of whether your child is offered a place.
Is the test the same for Year 7 and Year 10 entry?
Both entry points use EduTest-based assessments, but the difficulty level is calibrated to the relevant year level. Year 10 applicants are assessed at a higher standard than Year 7 applicants.
How should my child prepare for the writing component?
Regular, timed writing practice is the most effective approach. Your child should practise planning an essay quickly (2–3 minutes), writing with clear structure (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion), and editing for errors. Varied topics help build the flexibility needed for an unseen writing prompt.
When do applications typically open and close?
Based on the established annual cycle, applications typically open in the first half of the year and close in August. Testing takes place over two days in September. Always confirm exact dates with the Queensland Academies directly, as these may shift slightly each year.
Does my child need to be a Queensland resident?
The Queensland Academies are Queensland government schools. Check the current eligibility requirements on the Queensland Academies website, as residency and enrolment criteria may apply.
What happens if my child is not successful?
If your child does not receive an offer, they may apply again in a subsequent year. Use the experience as a learning opportunity — review areas where additional preparation may help and consider whether the chosen campus remains the best fit.
Is the Queensland Academies Edutest hard?
The Edutest is designed to be challenging. It has a deliberate completion rate of approximately 50 per cent, meaning most students are not expected to finish every question in each section. The difficulty increases progressively within each component, with the hardest questions appearing towards the end. The test assesses reasoning ability and problem-solving — not just curriculum knowledge — so students who rely solely on school-level preparation often find it significantly harder than expected. Structured preparation using Edutest practice tests over several months is strongly recommended.
Where can I find Edutest practice tests for Queensland Academies?
Official Edutest practice materials are available through the Edutest website. BrainTree Coaching also provides structured preparation courses with Edutest practice test materials specifically aligned to the Queensland Academies format. Our free mock tests allow you to benchmark your child's current ability before committing to a full preparation programme. Third-party providers such as Exam Success and NotesEdu also offer Queensland-specific practice resources.
What is a good score on the QASMT entrance exam?
The Queensland Academies do not publish cutoff scores or minimum benchmarks. Selection is holistic, combining QASMT entrance exam results with school reports, NAPLAN data, and interview performance. However, successful applicants typically perform in the top 10 to 15 per cent of the testing cohort across all Edutest components. Rather than targeting a specific score, focus on building consistently strong performance across Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics, and Writing.
Is the Edutest the same as the ACER HAST test used in other states?
No. The Edutest used by the Queensland Academies is a different assessment from the ACER HAST (Higher Ability Selection Test) used by some Victorian selective schools, or the ACER test used for NSW scholarships. While there are similarities in the types of reasoning assessed, the question formats, timing structures, and scoring methods differ. Students preparing for the Queensland Academies should use Edutest-specific practice materials rather than relying on ACER or other state-based test preparation.
Can my child use a calculator in the Queensland Academies test?
No. Calculators are not permitted during the Edutest entrance examination. All mathematical and numerical reasoning questions are designed to be solved using mental computation and written working. This means your child needs strong mental arithmetic skills, including confidence with multiplication tables, fractions, decimals, and percentages without calculator assistance. Practise calculator-free problem-solving throughout your preparation.
Prepare for the Queensland Academies Test with BrainTree
Structured courses covering all five test components — Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Reading, Maths, and Writing — designed for Queensland Academies applicants.
Queensland Academies Resources
Helpful links and guides to support your preparation journey
Queensland Academies Preparation Course
Structured preparation covering all five test components with expert guidance tailored to the EduTest format.
Try a free practice test to benchmark your child's current ability and identify areas for targeted improvement.
Have questions about the Queensland Academies test or your child's preparation? Our team is here to help.
Queensland Academies Official Website
Visit the official Queensland Academies website for the latest application dates, eligibility criteria, and campus information.
Related Guides
- EduTest selective exam preparation hub — the test the Queensland Academies use
- Queensland Academies preparation course
- EduTest exam format — complete breakdown
- EduTest preparation strategies
- EduTest practice resources
- Free mock tests for selective school entry
Download a free EduTest sample paper to benchmark your child's current level, then build a structured plan with the Queensland Academies Ultimate Pack.
Structured EduTest preparation across all five components for QASMT, QACI, and QAHS entry — built around the two-day September sitting.
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Questions parents ask about this article
What test do the Queensland Academies use for entry?
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Are EduTest past papers available for the Queensland Academies?
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