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
The 2026 test has been held — you're preparing for the 2027 cycle.
Dates for the 2027 cycle are projected from the recurring annual pattern and are not yet department-confirmed. 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 Abstract Reasoning practice covers the figural pattern-matrix items directly — the component that sets ASET apart — and is live now.
- Timed, paper-style practice mirrors the ~2h50 single-sitting format.
Try Abstract Reasoning free
WA GATE / ASET tests figural Abstract Reasoning — the pattern-matrix items below are generated live and marked instantly. Have a go.
Abstract Reasoning — pattern matrix
0/0 correctWhich option completes the pattern?
Customised WA GATE / ASET practice is live: AI-generated items styled to this test's real components, adapting to your child. Free during the 2026 beta.
Start free practiceFree during beta. Sign in to start a diagnostic and adaptive practice for WA GATE / ASET.
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 the following year. The ASET runs in early March each year, with applications closing at 6:00pm AWST in early February — a hard deadline; late applications are not accepted. See the key dates above for the current cycle, and always confirm with the WA Department of Education.
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 Abstract Reasoning practice now covers those figural matrix items directly.
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.
Practise for WA GATE / ASET — free
Free during the 2026 beta. Custom WA GATE / ASET practice is live now — sign in to start a diagnostic and adaptive practice.