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 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. 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 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.