Selective School Application in Victoria
The selective school application process opens once a year and is managed through the Victorian Government portal. Applications are for current Year 7 students seeking Year 9 entry into one of Victoria’s four selective entry high schools: Melbourne High School, Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School, Nossal High School, and Suzanne Cory High School.
Most families start preparing 12 months before the application period opens. The application itself is straightforward, but securing a place depends almost entirely on how your child performs in the selective school entrance exam, which tests reading, mathematics, and general ability.
About the Selective School Application Process
Students complete an online application through the Victorian Government’s portal during the application window, which typically opens in Term 1 or Term 2 each year. Shortlisted students are then invited to sit the entrance exam, usually held mid-year in Melbourne.
For current application dates, eligibility criteria, and the official information pack, visit the Victorian Government selective entry high schools page.
Victoria's Selective Entry High Schools
There are four selective entry high schools in Victoria, each accepting students for Year 9 entry through the same entrance exam:
- Melbourne High School (boys only), South Yarra
- The Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School (girls only), Melbourne
- Nossal High School (all genders), Berwick
- Suzanne Cory High School (all genders), Werribee
For questions about specific programs or Year 10 and above enrolments, contact the schools directly.
Why Families Choose TopScope for Selective School Preparation
TopScope has supported over 1,000 students through the Victorian selective school process, from understanding the application timeline to sitting the entrance exam. Our selective school exam preparation program runs across four Melbourne campuses and is built specifically around the selective entry exam format, including 40+ practice tests and individual progress reports after every mock exam.
Our admin team also helps parents navigate the application process directly, including advice on school selection, eligibility, and timing. Book a free assessment or get in touch to find out more.
Dear SST8 students and parents,
Please note that applications for the Selective Entry High School test are NOW OPEN. See the link below for more info:
https://www.vic.gov.au/selective-entry-high-schools
Applying for Year 9 entry in 2023
Applications for entry into a Selective Entry High School in 2023 are open. To apply, complete the online application form.
The examination is scheduled for 23 July 2022 at the Melbourne Showgrounds.
Use these practice tests to help students prepare for the examination.
Information pack
Contains eligibility criteria, important dates, and the selection process.
Information pack – Selective Entry High Schools 2023
Information pack – Selective Entry High Schools 2023
About selective entry high schools
Victorian Selective Entry High Schools provide for academically high-achieving students in years 9 to 12.
These schools are:
- Melbourne High School (boys only) in South Yarra.
- The Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School (girls only) in Melbourne.
- Nossal High School (all genders) in Berwick.
- Suzanne Cory High School (all genders) in Werribee.
More information
Contact the selective entry high schools directly if you have specific questions about their subjects and programs or about enrolling for Year 10 and above.