We understand that receiving selective school test results that fall short of expectations can be a moment of mixed emotions. While disappointment might linger, please remember that this is just a single step in your child's journey—a journey brimming with endless opportunities.
In this guide, we'll explore how to navigate waiting lists and introduce pathways into selective schools Year 8 - Year11.
Waiting/Reserve lists
If your outcome shows ‘Reserve’ it means that your child is currently placed on the waiting list for that school. Your child may be offered a position later, depending on the number of students foregoing the offer or accepting different offers. The reserve system displays a series of alphabets from A to F, with A being most likely and F being the least likely to receive an offer. Reserve list numbers are no longer published.
*However, this is only an estimate - the number of declined offers and timing varies from year to year:
Reserve Band | Estimated time of contact within |
A | 1 month of the outcome notification |
B | 2 months of the outcome notification |
C | 3 months of the outcome notification |
D | 4 months of the outcome notification |
E | 5 months of the outcome notification |
F | Unlikely by the end of the year |
Communication of offer will be made via email so if you are on the reserve list, we encourage you to regularly check your inbox, including junk mails!
Important dates
The reserve list will close at the start of Term 2 in the placement year.
On 18 December 2023 (3pm), students holding an offer to a selective high school are automatically removed from other school’s waiting lists. To remain waiting, students will be required to decline the existing offer prior to this date.
Between 18 December 2023 and the start of Term 2 2024, offers will be made only to students remaining on waiting lists that have declined their existing offer or with no offers.
For up-to-date progress on waiting lists, scroll to the bottom of this link.
Pathways into Selective High Schools (Year 8 to Year 11)
It is common for students to ‘transfer into’ a selective school during year 8 to 11, through the alternative placement process. Students may choose to do this in order to move from a non-selective school to a selective school, or to move to a higher-ranking selective school from a lower-ranking selective school.
Applications open between late June to July annually for placement starting in Years 8 to 11.
For reference, applications opened on 20 June and closed on 21 July 2023 for next year’s placement. Outcomes are communicated between September to October.
*Important Note: Application must be sent to each school separately.
Some schools offer 15-30 extra places for year 11 entry however, vacancies are typically limited for junior years. Depending on the school, there may be different application fees, test process, interview and other submission requirements (such as recent school reports and proof of academic performance).
From nurturing your child's unique strengths to uncovering alternative avenues, we're here to help you discover the best fit for your child's growth.
Stay hopeful, stay engaged, and let's embark on this educational adventure together.
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