Key dates for ACER, Edutest, and AAS scholarship tests at independent schools across Australia. Always confirm dates directly with your chosen school.
Last updated: February 2026
Important: Confirm dates with schools
Exam dates and registration deadlines change from year to year. The information below is a general guide based on typical scheduling patterns. Always check the individual school's website or contact their admissions office for confirmed 2026 dates.
ACER (Australian Council for Educational Research) administers scholarship exams for independent schools across Australia.
| Timeframe | Event | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aug–Nov 2025 | Registration opens | Varies by school; some close early |
| Feb–Apr 2026 | ACER exams held | Exact dates set by each school |
| Apr–Jun 2026 | Results released | Typically 4–8 weeks after the exam |
Schools using ACER include Xavier College, PLC, Peninsula Grammar, and others. See the full ACER school list.
Edutest is used by many independent schools for scholarship assessment, particularly in Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland.
| Timeframe | Event | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aug–Dec 2025 | Registration opens | Check each school for deadlines |
| Feb–May 2026 | Edutest exams held | Most schools test in February or March |
| Mar–Jun 2026 | Results and offers | Schools contact successful candidates directly |
Schools using Edutest include Wesley College, MLC, Carey Baptist Grammar, Caulfield Grammar, and many more. See the full Edutest school list.
Academic Assessment Services (AAS) provides scholarship testing for independent schools across Australia, particularly girls' schools.
| Timeframe | Event | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aug–Nov 2025 | Registration opens | Via individual school websites |
| Feb–Apr 2026 | AAS exams held | Many schools share common test dates |
| Mar–May 2026 | Results released | Timeline varies by school |
Schools using AAS include Melbourne Girls Grammar, Camberwell Grammar, Firbank Grammar, Genazzano FCJ College, and others.
12+ months before the exam
Research which schools and test providers your child will sit. Begin gentle, regular practice to build familiarity with question styles.
6–12 months before
Establish a consistent practice routine — short daily sessions are more effective than occasional long ones. Focus on understanding explanations, not just getting answers right.
3–6 months before
Register for exams (check school deadlines — some close early). Identify weaker areas and focus practice sessions accordingly.
Final month
Keep sessions short and low-pressure. Confidence comes from months of steady practice, not last-minute cramming. Encourage rest and a positive mindset.
Most scholarship exams are held between February and June each year. ACER tests typically run from late February through April, while Edutest exams are generally held between February and May. Dates vary by school and state, so always check individual school websites for confirmed dates.
Registration typically opens 3–6 months before the exam date. For exams held in February–March, registration often opens the previous year (August–November). Check each school's website for specific registration deadlines as they vary between institutions.
Most education professionals recommend starting preparation 6–12 months before the exam date. This allows time for consistent, low-pressure practice without cramming. Short, regular sessions are more effective than intensive last-minute preparation.
Test format, components, and which schools use ACER.
Five test components, timing, and Edutest school list.