FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Are these official past papers?

No — and that's deliberate. Official papers are copyrighted, limited in number, and freely available, which means most children preparing seriously have already seen them. Test Papers Hub papers are original questions written to match the current exam's format, question styles, timing and difficulty — fresh practice that behaves exactly like the real thing.

What exams do you cover?

The NSW Opportunity Class (OC) Placement Test for Year 4 students, the Selective High School Placement Test for Year 6 students, and HSC subjects (starting with Mathematics Advanced, with more subjects being added).

What makes your worked solutions different?

Every question — not a selection — comes with a numbered, step-by-step solution written in plain language a student can follow without an adult translating. Where a diagram teaches faster than words (patterns, fractions, balance problems, area), the solution includes one. Most competitors provide an answer letter and, at best, a terse explanation written for adults.

How hard are the papers compared to the real exam?

They're written to the same difficulty band as the current exams, including the harder discriminating questions that separate top candidates. If your child finds a paper comfortable, that's genuine signal — not soft questions.

How do I receive the papers?

Instantly. After checkout, download links arrive by email within minutes. Papers are PDFs — print them or use a tablet.

Can I print the papers?

Yes, and we recommend it — the real OC and Selective tests are computer-based, but pen-and-paper practice for working out remains valuable, and HSC exams are handwritten. Print as many copies as you need for your own household.

Can I share the files with friends or a study group?

Each purchase is licensed for one household. Files are watermarked to the buyer. If a friend's child would benefit, please point them to the store — it's what keeps new papers coming.

My child is in Year 3 / Year 5 — is it too early to start?

Light, low-pressure familiarity a year out is genuinely useful — the formats reward children who aren't seeing the question styles for the first time. Short, untimed sessions are appropriate at that stage; save strict timed conditions for the final months.

Do you offer refunds?

Because papers are instant digital downloads, we can't refund a delivered file. If you bought the wrong paper or level, contact us and we'll exchange it — no drama.

Is there a free sample?

Yes — a complete paper with its full answer key and worked solutions, so you can judge the quality before spending anything. [Download it here →]

Who writes the papers?

Papers are developed by analysing the current official test structures, specifications and released sample materials, then writing original questions in those styles. Every solution is checked for accuracy and rewritten until it reads simply.

Are you affiliated with the NSW Department of Education or NESA?

No. Test Papers Hub is independent practice material and is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, the NSW Department of Education, Cambridge Assessment, or NESA. (You'll find this stated on every paper too — we're upfront about it.)