WA GATE Academic & the ASET
One test, 24 schools. WA's Academic Selective Entrance Test (ASET) is the single gateway to Perth Modern and every GATE Academic, Arts and Languages program. Note: it tests Abstract Reasoning, where NSW tests Thinking Skills.
Test format
| Reading | Comprehension |
|---|---|
| Writing | Written response |
| Quantitative Reasoning | Multiple choice |
| Abstract Reasoning | Pattern / matrix items (replaces NSW Thinking Skills) |
Key dates
Verified 5 July 2026. Dates shift annually and late applications are not accepted — always confirm with the WA Department of Education before you rely on them.
How SmartPrep helps today
- The NSW curriculum builds three of the four ASET components directly — Reading, Writing and Quantitative Reasoning.
- Our Thinking Skills modules develop the pattern and logic foundations behind Abstract Reasoning — but figural/matrix item types need a WA-specific bank (coming soon).
- Timed, paper-style practice mirrors the ~2h50 single-sitting format.
Customised ASET practice is coming soon. In the meantime, the NSW curriculum builds three of the four ASET components directly — Reading, Writing and Quantitative Reasoning — and our Thinking Skills modules develop the pattern and logic foundations behind Abstract Reasoning.
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WA GATE Academic & the ASET: frequently asked
What is the ASET?
The Academic Selective Entrance Test is WA's single, centralised entrance exam (run by ACER®) for Year 7 entry into Perth Modern and all GATE Academic, Arts and Languages programs — one test covering 24 schools.
When is the WA selective test sat?
In Year 6, for Year 7 entry. For 2027 entry the test is 7–8 March 2026, with applications closing at 6:00pm on 6 February 2026 — a hard deadline; late applications are not accepted.
How is it different from the NSW selective test?
The component set differs: ASET includes Abstract Reasoning (pattern/matrix items) where the NSW test uses Thinking Skills. Our Thinking Skills engine builds the underlying reasoning, but figural item types need a WA-specific bank, which is coming soon.
What score do I need for Perth Modern?
Selection uses a Total Standard Score (TSS). Published figures — an academic benchmark around 209.5, and a Perth Modern 2026 cut-off of 244.34 — are previous-year minimums, not guaranteed thresholds. They move each year with the applicant field.
Other states & territories
SmartPrepAI is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with, authorised by or endorsed by any government education department, ACER®, EduTest®, Cambridge Assessment, or any school named on this page. Test names and trademarks are used nominatively for identification only. Exam details are provided for general guidance — always confirm current requirements with the official provider.
Get underway with SmartPrepAI
Free during the 2026 beta. Start with the live NSW curriculum today and be first in line when WA GATE / ASET banks go live.
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