🏫 Registration & How to Apply
Applying for ACER Scholarship Level 1
Key fact: You register directly with each school – not with ACER centrally. ACER administers the test; schools run the scholarship program.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1 – Research target schools (September-October)
Visit the admissions page of each school you are interested in. Look for ‘Scholarship’, ‘Bursary’ or ‘Merit Award’. Not all schools offer academic scholarships.
Step 2 – Apply to each school individually (October-January)
Submit the school’s application form by their specific deadline. Application forms typically ask for: child’s details, current school, parent contacts, sometimes a personal statement.
Step 3 – Receive sitting confirmation (January)
After application, schools confirm your test date, location and seat number. Most sit at the school’s own campus.
Step 4 – Sit the ACER exam (February)
Arrive 15 minutes early. Bring ID and required stationery. The exam is conducted under standard ACER conditions.
Step 5 – Await results (2-8 weeks after exam)
Schools contact successful candidates. Most offer an interview as the next stage. Prepare for both the test AND a potential interview.
💡 Application Strategy
📋 Apply to 3-5 schools
Scholarship applications are competitive. Some schools receive 8-12 applicants per scholarship place. Multiple applications maximise your chances at no extra cost to your preparation.
📅 Check deadlines individually
SA schools close earlier (~late January). Other states vary from early to late January. Mark every deadline in your calendar immediately.
🎓 Year 7 entry requirements
Level 1 scholarships are for students entering Year 7. Applications typically open when your child is in the year below.
💰 Types of scholarships vary
Full academic scholarship (100% tuition). Merit scholarship (25-50%). Means-tested bursary (need-based). Some schools offer all three.
