How many questions in the selective test? Parents usually want a clear count per section for the NSW Selective High School Placement Test (sat in Year 6 for Year 7 entry). The test is computer-based and has four sections. Three are multiple choice. Writing is a single typed task, not a question count in the same sense.
Use this page with the Selective hub and How long is the selective test?. Official detail sits with the NSW Department of Education. Figures come from FunThinkers verified NSW notes (last checked July 2026).
Question counts at a glance
| Section | Time | Questions / answers |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 45 minutes | 17 questions (about 38 answers) |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 40 minutes | 35 questions |
| Thinking Skills | 40 minutes | 40 questions |
| Writing | 30 minutes | One typed task (not a multiple-choice count) |
Reading is the section that confuses families most. The verified description is 17 questions (about 38 answers). Multi-part items mean the number of answers you submit can be higher than the number of stem questions.
Reading: questions vs answers
Reading uses passage-based comprehension across several text types. Some items have more than one part. That is why you will hear both “about 17 questions” and “about 38 answers.” When you practise, train your child to:
- Read the instruction for each part
- Answer every required part
- Watch the clock (45 minutes total)
More Reading practice: Selective reading.
Mathematical Reasoning: 35 questions
- 35 questions
- Multiple choice with five options each
- No calculator
- Working out on paper with a 2B pencil
Pacing guide many families use: a little over one minute per question on average, with harder items taking more. Details: Selective maths.
Thinking Skills: 40 questions
- 40 questions
- Multiple choice with four options each
- Logic, arguments, and patterns
- About one minute per question on average
Common traps are covered in Thinking Skills traps. Section hub: Thinking Skills practice.
Writing: one task, not “X questions”
Writing is one prompt in 30 minutes, typed on the computer. There is no multiple-choice count. Markers look at ideas, structure, and language control. Practise topics carefully: Selective writing topics and Selective writing.
How this differs from OC
The Opportunity Class test (Year 4) has three sections and no writing. It is a different paper. Do not reuse Selective question counts for OC. See What is an Opportunity Class?.
Why counts matter for practice
Knowing the counts helps you:
- Choose practice sets that match the live shape
- Set realistic section timers
- Stop shopping for papers with the wrong number of items
Full day timing (breaks included) is explained in the length guide.
How FunThinkers matches the format
FunThinkers Selective practice is built around the same four-section structure. Each child starts with 3 free practice test attempts and no credit card. Unlimited access is $9.99/month.
Practise next
- Open the Selective test catalog and sit a full mock that matches these counts
- Reading drill: Reading Comprehension
- Maths drill: Partial Numbers and order of operations worksheets
- Thinking Skills drill: Logic Grid Gauntlet
- Writing drill: Persuasive Write
Next steps
- Sit a Selective practice test
- Check Selective test dates
- Skim Selective test changes if you are returning after a few years away from the process
