While both are assessments for Australian students, NAPLAN and Selective/OC exams are very different.
What NAPLAN Measures
- Focuses on literacy and numeracy skills
- Taken in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9
- Results reflect academic progress, not selective entry
What Selective / OC Exams Measure
- Focus on advanced reasoning, problem-solving, and high-level literacy
- Entry exams for selective high schools or OC programs
- Require specialised preparation
Why Preparation Differs
- NAPLAN-style practice: Builds core skills, exam familiarity, and confidence
- Selective/OC prep: Requires higher-order thinking, timed tests, and challenging problem-solving
