Yes, in metropolitan and larger regional schools where there are state school zones.It is not necessary in cases where there is only one state secondary school in town.
Schools use either EduTest or HAST - Higher Ability Selection Test (administered by ACER)
It costs about $95 for students to sit the exams. Some schools may offer a small subsidy and look with compassion where there is disadvantage and generally reach an agreement with the parents so that students are able to sit.
Entrance-exam dates, application processes and requirements are determined by each participating school. Please visit the relevant school’s website or contact the school directly using the details below to confirm current information.
Victorian Government secondary schools have been operating specific programs at authorised schools for gifted students since 1980. These have been known as Select Entry Accelerated Learning (SEAL) schools. The Academy of Accredited SEAL Schools (TAASS) has been established to maintain this tradition to enable groups of like-minded students to develop academically, socially and emotionally. The SEAL Academy follows Gagné's model for the definition of gifted and talented students.
Students must achieve high entrance exam results to enter the SEAL program of a SEAL Academy school. Students who wish to undertake the program in a particular school year, must sit the entrance test the year before. The exam takes place at each school at varying dates – please refer to the respective SEAL Academy school websites.
SEAL Academy is a Victoria-wide program that supports students in both metro Melbourne and regional Victoria. This directory of schools will assist you as you choose the best option for your child or student.
