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If you're considering applying for a scholarship at an Australian independent school, you've likely encountered the term "ACER scholarship test". But what exactly is it? This guide explains everything parents need to know.
ACER (Australian Council for Educational Research) is an independent research organisation specialising in educational assessment. Many independent schools across Australia use ACER scholarship tests to identify high-ability students for academic scholarships. These tests assess critical thinking rather than curriculum knowledge.
ACER scholarship tests differ from school-based assessments. Unlike tests measuring what students learned in class, ACER tests evaluate higher-order thinking and problem-solving abilities. Questions require students to analyse, interpret and draw conclusions, rather than recall memorised facts.
Tests are divided into levels: Primary (Years 4-6), Level 1 (Years 7-8), Level 2 (Years 9-10) and Level 3 (Years 11-12). Each includes multiple-choice sections assessing verbal reasoning, mathematical reasoning and abstract reasoning, plus a Written Expression component.
ACER offers two testing programs. The Cooperative Program has multiple schools testing on the same date (typically a Saturday in February). Students can apply to up to six schools, sit the test once at their first preference school, and have results sent to all applied schools.
The Alternative Date Program allows schools to select their own test date. Students must sit the test at each school separately.
ACER scholarship tests identify the highest-ability candidates from an already high-ability cohort. These tests assess skills developed over a lifetime. Short-term intensive preparation is unlikely to significantly improve performance.
The Written Expression section requires original thought in response to the prompt. Students need to organise ideas and express themselves clearly. Quality of thinking matters more than length of response.
ACER recommends students' best preparation is reading widely and thinking critically. Practice materials are available through the ACER parent portal.
Students should complete practice tests under timed conditions to build time management skills. For digital practice, Excel Test Zone offers online practice tests designed to build familiarity and confidence.
Arrive 15 minutes early. Bring two blue or black pens, two HB or B pencils, a good eraser, and optional snacks. Do not bring calculators, mobile phones, watches, rulers or recording devices.
For Cooperative tests, ACER provides results to all applied schools on a nominated date. For Alternative Date tests, schools decide how results are communicated. Schools contact parents directly to offer scholarships.
The best preparation combines wide reading, critical thinking practice and familiarity with test format through practice materials.
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