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NSW Selective Schools Directory

Quick answer

Quick answer

NSW selective high schools are government schools that enrol academically gifted students based on the Selective High School Placement Test. This directory lists fully selective and partially selective schools with their 2024 entry cut-off scores (Source: NSW Department of Education, 2024). Cut-offs are out of 300 and change each year with demand, so treat them as a guide rather than a guaranteed threshold.

Fully selective schools

SchoolLocation2024 Cut-off
James Ruse Agricultural High SchoolCarlingford246
Baulkham Hills High SchoolBaulkham Hills233
North Sydney Boys High SchoolCrows Nest231
Sydney Girls High SchoolSurry Hills228
North Sydney Girls High SchoolCrows Nest227
Sydney Boys High SchoolMoore Park226
Normanhurst Boys High SchoolNormanhurst221
Hornsby Girls High SchoolHornsby215
Penrith High SchoolPenrith210

Partially selective schools

SchoolLocation2024 Cut-off
Tempe High SchoolTempe195
Bonnyrigg High SchoolBonnyrigg178

Frequently asked questions

What is a selective high school?
Selective high schools are NSW government schools that enrol academically gifted students based on performance in the Selective High School Placement Test. They offer a more challenging academic environment.
How are cut-off scores determined?
Cut-off scores are based on the lowest placement score of students offered a place each year. They vary annually with demand and are a guide only, not a guaranteed threshold.
What is the difference between fully and partially selective?
Fully selective schools enrol only selective-stream students. Partially selective schools have both selective classes and a local comprehensive intake.
Can I apply to multiple selective schools?
Yes. The application lets you nominate up to three schools in order of preference. Placement is based on your score and preferences.

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