Exam format · updated 24 October 2026

HAST (Higher Ability Selection Test) format

HAST, the Higher Ability Selection Test, is a set of separate tests used by schools for Year 8 to Year 11 entry: Reading Comprehension, Mathematical Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning and Written Expression. Which parts a student sits depends on the school.

PartOur practice paper formatPapers
Reading Comprehension36 multiple-choice questions in 45 minutes (4 options each)10
Mathematical Reasoning35 multiple-choice questions in 40 minutes (4 options each, no calculator)20
Abstract Reasoning30 multiple-choice questions in 30 minutes20
Written Expression2 writing tasks, answer one in a 25-minute timed sitting10

The table uses the Year 8 papers. The Year 9, 10 and 11 sets use the same layout with harder content.

Check what your school requires

Schools choose which parts to use, so confirm with the school first, then practise only those parts. ACER, which publishes HAST, provides official information and a sample booklet.

Official sources

Practice papers for this exam

Australia · Year 8 entry

HAST Year 8 Reading Comprehension

10 papers. 36 multiple-choice questions in 45 minutes (4 options each).

Browse 10 papersAustralia · Year 8 entry

HAST Year 8 Mathematical Reasoning

20 papers. 35 multiple-choice questions in 40 minutes (4 options each, no calculator).

Browse 20 papersAustralia · Year 8 entry

HAST Year 8 Abstract Reasoning

20 papers. 30 multiple-choice questions in 30 minutes.

Browse 20 papersAustralia · Year 8 entry

HAST Year 8 Written Expression

10 papers. 2 writing tasks, answer one in a 25-minute timed sitting.

Browse 10 papers

Questions

Which year level should we buy?

Choose the year your child is entering, for example Year 9 papers for Year 9 entry.

Are your papers official HAST papers?

Our papers are original practice papers written to the published format. They are not official papers and are not affiliated with, or endorsed by, any exam authority.