How Long Is the NSW Selective Schools Test? (and OC Length)

The NSW selective schools test has 155 minutes of testing (Reading 45, Mathematical Reasoning 40, Thinking Skills 40, Writing 30). With check-in and breaks, the Department’s example timetable runs from 9:30 am to about 2 pm. The OC test has 110 minutes of testing across three sections and no writing. Both are computer-based tests run by the NSW Department of Education.

Figures below follow the Department’s published section times and example timetable. Always confirm the current year on the official NSW placement test page.

NSW Selective High School Placement Test length

The Selective High School Placement Test has 155 minutes (2 hours 35 minutes) of testing, plus check-in and breaks. On the Department’s example timetable, students arrive at 9:30 am and are dismissed at 1:55 pm.

The example timetable has 10-minute breaks after Reading and after Thinking Skills, and a longer snack break after Mathematical Reasoning. Students sit on computers provided at the centre — see computer-based format guide and writing tips.

Opportunity Class (OC) test length

The OC Placement Test has three sections and no writing. Testing totals 110 minutes, plus check-in and breaks:

• Reading — 40 minutes
• Mathematical Reasoning — 40 minutes (35 questions)
• Thinking Skills — 30 minutes

Full parent context: OC test guide.

Selective vs OC: length at a glance

• Selective: four sections including writing (155 min of testing).
• OC: three sections, no writing (110 min of testing).
• Both are computer-based; both disallow calculators (see calculator rules).
• They are not the same exam — OC vs selective explained.

When is the next test?

The 2026 tests (for 2027 entry) were held in May 2026. The next selective and OC tests are expected around May 2027; exact dates are not yet announced, so check the NSW Department of Education site.

How to practise the clock

Knowing the minutes is useless without pacing practice. Use official NSW sample tests first, then timed mocks that match section lengths. EduSpark’s NSW papers use the same section lengths, and there is 1 free timed paper per subject. See NSW practice papers or free OC practice tests.