Introduction
Every year, thousands of Year 6 students in New South Wales sit the Selective High School Placement Test to secure entry into some of the state’s most competitive schools. But before applying, it’s crucial to understand the different types of selective high schools in NSW—because each offers unique opportunities, environments, and pathways.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
- What selective high schools are
- The 6 main types of selective high schools in NSW
- Pros and cons of each
- How to decide which type is right for your child
What Are Selective High Schools?
Selective high schools are public schools with academic entry requirements, designed to extend and challenge gifted and talented students. Students admitted learn at an accelerated pace, often covering content faster and in more depth than at non-selective schools.
Selection is based primarily on the Selective High School Placement Test, sat in Year 6 for Year 7 entry. Students can apply to a maximum of three schools, so choosing wisely is essential.
Types of Selective High Schools in NSW
1. Fully Selective High Schools
- Entirely selective: all classes follow advanced academic programs.
- Can be all-boys, all-girls, or co-educational.
- Ideal for students who thrive in consistently high-achieving environments.
How many? 22 fully selective high schools in NSW.
Examples: James Ruse Agricultural High School, North Sydney Boys, North Sydney Girls.
2. Partially Selective High Schools
- A mix of selective and non-selective classes within each year group.
- Great option if your child’s entry score isn’t quite high enough for fully selective entry.
- Scaling advantage: In Year 12, HSC marks are partly influenced by peers’ performance—being in a strong cohort can help.
How many? 24 partially selective schools.
Best for: Students who want a balance of selective challenge while still mixing with the wider student community.
3. Agricultural Selective High Schools
- Combine selective academics with mandatory agricultural studies in Years 7–10.
- Students gain hands-on experience with crops, livestock, and land management.
How many? 4 agricultural selective schools.
Examples: Farrer Memorial, Yanco, Hurlstone, and James Ruse Agricultural (which is both fully selective and agricultural).
4. Virtual Selective High School (Aurora College)
- Designed for rural and remote students who can’t easily access metropolitan selective schools.
- Students stay enrolled at their local high school but attend online selective classes for English, Maths, and Science.
- Uses platforms like Zoom and Google Classroom.
Example: Aurora College.
Best for: Students in regional NSW who want selective extension without relocating.
5. Conservatorium High School (Music Selective)
- Specialises in music education alongside core subjects.
- Entry requires both the Selective High School Placement Test and a music audition/application.
- Important: Don’t apply unless your child is actively learning an instrument—spaces are competitive.
Example: Sydney Conservatorium High School.
Best for: Musically gifted students passionate about pursuing music at a professional level.
6. Boarding Selective High Schools
- Offer boarding facilities for students who live too far away for daily travel.
- Perfect for regional families who prefer in-person learning over Aurora’s virtual model.
Examples: Hurlstone, Farrer, Yanco.
Overlaps Between Selective School Types
Some schools fall into multiple categories. For example:
- James Ruse Agricultural High School is both fully selective and agricultural.
This means parents should treat the categories as guidelines rather than strict divisions.
How to Choose the Right Selective High School Type
Ask yourself:
- Learning Environment – Does your child thrive surrounded by other high achievers (fully selective) or prefer a balanced cohort (partially selective)?
- Passion & Interests – Are they passionate about music or agriculture? If yes, consider Conservatorium or Agricultural schools.
- Location & Logistics – Is boarding realistic, or would Aurora College’s online option suit your family better?
- Application Strategy – You only get three choices—make sure they align with your child’s strengths and entry score potential.
- Wellbeing & Fit – Consider travel times, school culture, and the overall environment.
FAQs About Selective High Schools in NSW
Q: How many selective schools are there in NSW?
A: There are 47 selective schools across NSW, including fully selective, partially selective, agricultural, Conservatorium, Aurora College, and boarding options.
Q: Can my child apply to both fully and partially selective schools?
A: Yes—students can list up to three schools of any type.
Q: Do selective schools guarantee better HSC results?
A: Selective schools provide stronger academic environments, but results also depend on the student’s individual effort and well-being.
Q: Is Aurora College as good as in-person selective schools?
A: Aurora provides strong academic extension, but it’s best for students who are motivated and comfortable with online learning.
Conclusion
Choosing the right selective high school in NSW can significantly shape your child’s education. With options ranging from fully selective to partially selective, agricultural, Aurora College, Conservatorium, and boarding schools, there’s a pathway for every gifted learner.
The key is matching the school type to your child’s strengths, passions, and family situation—and using your three application choices strategically.
By understanding these differences, you can make an informed decision and give your child the best chance to thrive academically and personally.
