TL;DR
Parents can request reasonable adjustments for the NSW Selective High School Placement Test for children with ADHD or autism. Adjustments include colour theme changes, large print, separate test rooms, rest breaks, and scribes. Applications are made through the online application system with supporting documentation before the closing date.
Key Takeaways
- ✓Request adjustments when applying through the Selective High Schools application website
- ✓Select your child's disability/condition and describe specific adjustments needed in detail
- ✓Submit supporting documentary evidence (diagnostic reports, letters from specialists)
- ✓Available adjustments: colour themes, large print, separate rooms, rest breaks, scribes, assistive technology
- ✓From 2025, tests are computer-based (2-4 May 2025 for current cycle)
- ✓Adjustments are advised approximately 2 weeks before the test with the admission ticket
- ✓Submit requests early—deadline is the application closing date
- ✓Adjustments cannot be used to restrict placement—they ensure fair access only
If your child has ADHD, autism, or another condition that affects their ability to sit exams, you can request reasonable adjustments for the NSW Selective High School Placement Test.
This guide explains how to apply for accommodations for the 2026 entry cycle.
Understanding Reasonable Adjustments
The Selective Education Team provides adjustments to help students with disability, medical conditions, or temporary injuries access the test fairly.
Important: Information about your child's condition cannot be used to restrict their access to placement—adjustments ensure fair access only.
Available Adjustments
| Adjustment | Description |
|---|---|
| Colour themes | Black text on 5 different background colours (white, blue, lilac, green, yellow) |
| Large print | Alternative format papers in large print |
| Braille | Papers in braille format |
| Accessible PDF | Editable, accessible PDF version |
| Separate room | Individual or small group test setting |
| Rest breaks | Supervised breaks during the test |
| Scribe | For students unable to use computer-based test |
| Assistive technology | FM transmitters and other approved devices |
| Medical items | EpiPens, asthma inhalers, diabetes medication |
How to Request Adjustments
Step 1: During Application
When completing the online application:
- Select 'Yes' when asked if your child has a disability, medical, or behavioural condition
- Select your child's condition(s) from the list (select all that apply)
- If not listed, select 'Other' and provide details
Step 2: Describe Adjustments Needed
Be specific and detailed:
- Large print: Specify the font size required
- Assistive technology: Include device details and compatibility
- Separate room: Explain if the condition may disturb other students
Step 3: Provide Evidence
Select at least one form of documentary evidence:
- Diagnostic report from specialist (paediatrician, psychologist, psychiatrist)
- Letter from treating medical professional
- School documentation of current support
Timeline and Deadlines
| When | What |
|---|---|
| Application period opens | Request adjustments when you apply |
| Application deadline | Last day to request adjustments |
| ~2 weeks before test | Advised of approved adjustments with admission ticket |
| Test dates | 2-4 May 2025 (for current cycle—check dates for 2026) |
Tip: Submit requests early. The Selective Education Team appreciates early requests to allow time for consultation with schools before Term 4 ends.
2025 Changes: Computer-Based Testing
From 2025, placement tests are computer-based rather than paper-based. This affects some adjustments:
- Colour theme adjustments are built into the online platform
- Zoom function available for students who need larger text
- Alternative paper formats still available for students who cannot access online tests
Documentation Tips
What Makes Strong Evidence
- Current diagnosis from a recognised specialist
- Specific details about how the condition impacts test performance
- History of support showing this is the child's normal way of working
What to Include
For ADHD:
- Formal diagnosis
- Description of attention/focus difficulties
- How condition affects timed assessments
- Current accommodations at school
For Autism:
- Formal diagnosis
- Sensory considerations
- Social/environmental factors affecting testing
- Current accommodations at school
Practice Tests with Adjustments
The Department provides practice tests that can help your child:
- Become familiar with the computer-based format
- Practice with colour theme adjustments
- Build confidence before the actual test
Next Steps
- Check eligibility dates for the 2026 entry cycle
- Gather documentation from your child's specialists
- Complete the application with adjustment requests
- Submit early to allow processing time
- Await confirmation approximately 2 weeks before the test
ExamPrepd provides adaptive practice for NSW Selective School preparation with flexible timing and personalized difficulty. Try it free.
References
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I request ADHD accommodations for the NSW Selective School Test?
When completing the online application, select "Yes" if your child has a disability or medical condition. Select ADHD from the list, describe the specific adjustments needed in detail, and upload supporting documentation from a specialist.
What accommodations are available for the NSW Selective Test?
Available adjustments include colour theme changes (5 background options), large print or braille papers, separate test rooms, rest breaks, scribes for students who cannot use a computer, and assistive technology like FM transmitters.
What documentation do I need for Selective Test accommodations?
You need a formal diagnosis from a recognised specialist (paediatrician, psychologist, psychiatrist). Select your evidence type from the list when applying. The Selective Education Team uses this to assess eligibility.
When is the deadline to request Selective Test adjustments?
The deadline to request reasonable adjustments is the closing date of the application period. Early requests are appreciated to allow time for consultation with schools before Term 4 ends.
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