Important Information for Parents and Students: Scholarship Examinations, SEAL Programs and Other Accelerated Learning Programs

Mr Akash Deep, Director
July 19, 2026

Important Information for Parents and Students

Scholarship Examinations, SEAL Programs and Other Accelerated Learning Programs

The Melbourne Tutorials Scholars Program is designed for Grade 5 /6 students who are preparing for a range of competitive academic opportunities offered by schools across Victoria.

These opportunities may include:

Academic scholarship examinations
Select Entry Accelerated Learning programs, commonly known as SEAL or SEALP
High-achiever and academic-enrichment programs
School-based accelerated-learning programs
Entrance tests for specialised or advanced academic pathways

Schools may use different names for programs with broadly similar objectives. Their examination formats, testing providers, eligibility conditions and selection procedures may also differ.

Parents should therefore research the available options carefully and identify the schools and programs that may be suitable for their child.

Schools Offering Academic Scholarships

Many independent, Catholic and government schools offer scholarships based on academic achievement, general excellence or achievement in particular fields.

Some examples include:

Overnewton Anglican Community College
Gilson College
Bacchus Marsh Grammar
Lowther Hall Anglican Grammar School
Presbyterian Ladies’ College
Melbourne Grammar School
Haileybury
Victoria University Secondary College
St Albans Secondary College
Gleneagles Secondary College

Depending on the school, scholarship selection may involve:

An academic examination
School reports
NAPLAN results
An individual or group interview
A student portfolio
Teacher recommendations
Academic competition results
Evidence of leadership, music, sport or community involvement

Scholarship examinations may be conducted by an external provider such as ACER, EduTest or Academic Assessment Services, or through a test developed by the school.

Parents should note that not every scholarship requires a written entrance examination. For example, Victoria University Secondary College currently selects its Year 7 scholarship recipients through an application and interview process, supported by school reports, NAPLAN results and a portfolio. (Victoria University Secondary College)

Schools Offering SEAL or SEALP Programs

SEAL stands for Select Entry Accelerated Learning, while SEALP generally refers to a Select Entry Accelerated Learning Program.

These programs are usually intended for academically capable, highly motivated students who may benefit from:

A faster-paced curriculum
More complex and abstract learning
Greater depth and extension
Reduced repetition
Higher-order thinking
Independent research
Advanced problem-solving
Opportunities to learn with academically like-minded students
Early access to some senior secondary subjects

Some examples of Victorian schools offering SEAL, SEALP or comparable select-entry programs include:

Springside West Secondary College
Victoria University Secondary College
St Albans Secondary College
Williamstown High School
Werribee Secondary College
Glen Eira College
Gleneagles Secondary College
Brighton Secondary College
Pascoe Vale Girls College
Emerald Secondary College
Rosebud Secondary College
Mill Park Secondary College

In many government schools, students must first receive and accept an ordinary Year 7 placement before they become eligible to sit the school’s SEAL or accelerated-program entrance test.

For example, Springside West Secondary College requires applicants to have received a Year 7 placement, sit an EduTest examination and, if shortlisted, participate in a group interview. Its program emphasises academic enrichment, challenge and high expectations. (Springside West Secondary College)

Victoria University Secondary College offers an accredited SEAL program involving greater curriculum complexity and depth, higher-order thinking, problem-solving, independent research and a faster-paced curriculum. Applicants follow the normal Year 7 enrolment process and then register for the entrance examination. (Victoria University Secondary College)

Other Select Entry, High-Achiever and Accelerated Programs

Not every advanced academic program is called SEAL. Some schools use their own distinctive program names.

Examples include:

Alamanda K–9 College — Everest High Achievers Program
Thomas Carr College — Magis Program
Al-Taqwa College — SEEP
Werribee Secondary College — Select Entry Learning Program, or SELP
Williamstown High School — Select Entry Accelerated Learning Program, commonly referred to as SEALP
The Grange P–12 College — High Achievers Program

These programs may involve acceleration, extension, enrichment or a combination of these approaches.

Selected Programs in Melbourne’s Western Suburbs

Werribee Secondary College — Select Entry Learning Program

Werribee Secondary College offers the Select Entry Learning Program, commonly known as SELP.

SELP is a comprehensive high-achievement program developed for students who demonstrate strong academic achievement and commitment. It combines:

Acceleration
Extension
Enrichment
A challenging academic curriculum
High expectations
Co-curricular participation
Learning with other motivated and capable students

Students in Years 7 and 8 undertake accelerated learning in Mathematics, Science and Humanities, with extension in English, Music, Arts and Technology. The program also includes language study and co-curricular opportunities. (Werribee Secondary College)

For Year 7 entry, students must first receive and accept a place at Werribee Secondary College through the normal primary-to-secondary transition process. The school’s zoning requirements also apply.

Only families with a confirmed enrolment may express interest in SELP and receive the relevant testing information. Selection may consider:

A confirmed enrolment at the College
EduTest results
Recent school reports
NAPLAN results, where requested
Availability of places

The entrance test assesses verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, reading comprehension and Mathematics. (Werribee Secondary College)

Parents interested in SELP should contact Werribee Secondary College directly to confirm current zoning, enrolment, testing and application requirements.

Williamstown High School — Select Entry Accelerated Learning Program

Williamstown High School operates a Select Entry Accelerated Learning Program, commonly referred to as SEALP.

The program is intended for academically capable students who benefit from more challenging learning and extension. Current school publications refer to SEALP classes operating across Years 7, 8 and 9, including extension learning in subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science and Humanities. (Williamstown High School)

Parents considering Williamstown High School should contact the school directly to confirm:

Whether SEALP is available for the relevant intake year
Whether the child must first obtain a normal Year 7 placement
School-zone requirements
Application opening and closing dates
The testing provider
Examination subjects
Testing fees
Supporting documents
Interview requirements
The current structure of the program

Program arrangements may change, and the school’s current requirements should always be confirmed directly.

Laverton P–12 College

Laverton P–12 College is a government school serving students from Foundation to Year 12. The College describes a strong academic focus, differentiated teaching and an emphasis on literacy, numeracy, high expectations and meeting students at their point of learning need. (Laverton P-12 College)

However, based on the College’s currently available official information, a separately named SEAL, scholarship or select-entry accelerated program could not be confirmed.

Parents interested in Laverton P–12 College should contact the College directly to ask whether it currently offers:

A high-achiever stream
Academic extension classes
An accelerated-learning pathway
Scholarship opportunities
Advanced Mathematics or English classes
Entry testing for any specialised program
Participation in high-ability initiatives

Laverton P–12 College should not be described as a SEAL school unless the College directly confirms that such a program is currently operating.

Alamanda K–9 College — Everest High Achievers Program

Alamanda K–9 College in Point Cook offers the Everest High Achievers Program.

Everest is designed for highly able academic learners and provides learning that moves beyond the standard curriculum. The program may involve greater depth, faster progression and more challenging work.

Selection arrangements may include an EduTest assessment. Parents should contact Alamanda K–9 College directly to confirm the current year levels, eligibility rules and application process.

Thomas Carr College — Magis Program

Thomas Carr College in Tarneit offers the Magis Program for capable students who demonstrate:

Above-average academic ability
Strong task commitment
Creative problem-solving
The ability to work with complex and abstract material

Students may follow:

A numeracy pathway involving accelerated Mathematics and Science
A literacy pathway involving accelerated English and Humanities
Both pathways, where appropriate

Selection considers academic data, NAPLAN and PAT results, Grade 5 reports and a specialised entrance test administered by the College. The program is designed as a six-year pathway from Year 7 to Year 12. (Thomas Carr College)

Al-Taqwa College — SEEP

Al-Taqwa College in Truganina offers SEEP, a program intended to support highly capable and talented students through challenging and enriched learning.

The program aims to develop areas such as:

Academic excellence
Critical thinking
Problem-solving
Independent learning
Intellectual curiosity
Confidence and initiative

Parents should contact Al-Taqwa College directly for current information about eligibility, year levels, testing and selection.

Springside West Secondary College — SEAL

Springside West Secondary College in Fraser Rise offers a Select Entry Accelerated Learning Program.

Entry currently involves:

Receiving a Year 7 placement at the College
Sitting an EduTest entrance examination
Participating in a group interview if shortlisted

The school states that zoning and Department of Education placement rules apply. The program emphasises enrichment, academic challenge, advanced learning activities and participation in competitions and co-curricular opportunities. (Springside West Secondary College)

Victoria University Secondary College — SEAL and Scholarships

Victoria University Secondary College offers both:

An accredited SEAL program
Year 7 scholarship opportunities

The SEAL program provides a rigorous, faster-paced curriculum involving greater depth, critical and creative thinking, problem-solving, independent research and leadership opportunities. (Victoria University Secondary College)

Its Year 7 scholarships currently include Academic Excellence and Sporting Excellence awards. Scholarship selection is based on an application and interview rather than a separate scholarship test. (Victoria University Secondary College)

The Grange P–12 College — High Achievers Program

The Grange P–12 College, serving families in the Hoppers Crossing area, offers a High Achievers Program.

The program aims to help students:

Develop deeper understanding
Build critical-thinking skills
Strengthen analytical and creative problem-solving
Work independently and collaboratively
Prepare for future tertiary study and professional pathways

Students progress through school with their peers while receiving more challenging curriculum and enrichment opportunities suited to their academic abilities. (The Grange P-12 College)

Indicative List Only

The schools named in this note are provided as an indicative list only.

This is not an exhaustive list of all Victorian schools offering:

Academic scholarships
General excellence scholarships
SEAL or SEALP programs
SELP programs
Select Entry pathways
High-achiever classes
Enrichment programs
Academic excellence programs
Advanced-learning streams
Accelerated curriculum pathways

Many other schools across Victoria may offer similar opportunities.

Schools may also:

Introduce new programs
Rename an existing program
Change the program structure
Change the testing provider
Change entry year levels
Alter zoning or enrolment requirements
Modify application dates or fees
Discontinue a program

Parents must therefore confirm all current information directly with the concerned school.

What These Selection Processes May Assess

Depending on the school, students may be assessed in some or all of the following areas.

Mathematics

Students may be tested on:

Number operations
Fractions, decimals and percentages
Ratios and proportions
Measurement
Geometry
Patterns and algebraic thinking
Data interpretation
Multi-step problem-solving
Application of concepts in unfamiliar situations

Numerical and Quantitative Reasoning

This may include:

Number patterns
Mathematical analogies
Sequences
Relationships between quantities
Logical deduction
Tables, graphs and diagrams
Spatial reasoning
Problems involving relevant and irrelevant information

Reading Comprehension

Students may need to:

Identify main ideas
Locate supporting details
Make inferences
Interpret vocabulary in context
Recognise tone and purpose
Compare information
Understand implied meaning
Evaluate arguments and evidence

Verbal Reasoning

This may include:

Vocabulary
Synonyms and antonyms
Word analogies
Classification
Sentence completion
Logical word relationships
Codes and language patterns
Deductive reasoning

Abstract and Non-Verbal Reasoning

Students may encounter:

Shape sequences
Visual analogies
Matrices
Rotations and reflections
Missing figures
Spatial relationships
Pattern recognition

Writing

Depending on the examination, students may be asked to complete:

Persuasive writing
Narrative writing
Creative writing
Analytical writing
Reflective writing

Strong responses generally require:

Clear planning
Logical organisation
Original ideas
Appropriate vocabulary
Sentence variety
Accurate grammar and punctuation
Coherent paragraphing
Completion within the time limit

Other Selection Requirements

Schools may also consider:

Grade 5 or Grade 6 reports
NAPLAN results
PAT results
Teacher recommendations
Competition certificates
Leadership experience
Community involvement
Music, sport or other talents
A portfolio
An interview
The student’s attitude, motivation and work habits

Broad-Based Preparation by Melbourne Tutorials

The Melbourne Tutorials Scholars Program does not cater specifically or exclusively to any particular school, examination or program named in this note.

Melbourne Tutorials is not preparing students only for Werribee Secondary College, Williamstown High School, Alamanda K–9 College, Thomas Carr College, Al-Taqwa College, Springside West Secondary College or any other individual school.

The schools are mentioned only as examples of the different scholarship, SEAL, Select Entry and accelerated-learning opportunities available.

The Melbourne Tutorials Scholars Program is a broad-based and general academic preparation program, but it is carefully focused on the skills commonly required in competitive scholarship and accelerated-program selection processes.

The program develops:

Mathematical knowledge and problem-solving
Numerical and quantitative reasoning
Reading comprehension
Verbal reasoning and vocabulary
Abstract reasoning
Writing skills
Logical and analytical thinking
Interpretation of graphs, tables and diagrams
Examination strategy
Time management
Concentration
Perseverance
Speed and accuracy

Melbourne Tutorials does not claim to reproduce the exact examination used by any particular school. Every school may have its own:

Test format
Subject combination
Question style
Testing provider
Selection criteria
Interview process
Academic expectations

Importance of Accuracy and Speed

In many scholarship, SEAL and accelerated-program examinations, students are required to answer a substantial number of challenging questions within a limited period.

Therefore, accuracy and speed are both extremely important.

Students need to learn how to:

Read and understand questions efficiently
Identify the information that is relevant
Select an appropriate strategy quickly
Avoid unnecessarily long working
Use mental numeracy where appropriate
Eliminate unsuitable multiple-choice options
Move on when a question is taking too long
Manage the available examination time
Maintain accuracy under pressure
Check answers efficiently

However, speed alone is not sufficient.

Students must also possess:

Sound conceptual understanding
Strong reading and interpretation skills
Logical reasoning
Mathematical knowledge
Clear written expression
Careful attention to instructions
The confidence to attempt unfamiliar questions

The Melbourne Tutorials Scholars Program therefore aims to build both academic depth and examination efficiency.

Important Responsibility of Parents

Parents are requested to identify the schools at which they would like their child to sit a scholarship, SEAL, SEALP, SELP or other accelerated-program entrance test.

Parents must contact the concerned school directly to confirm:

Whether the relevant program is currently being offered
The correct entry year level
Eligibility requirements
School-zone requirements
Whether prior enrolment is required
Application opening and closing dates
Examination date, time and venue
Testing provider
Subjects and skills assessed
Whether writing is included
Application or testing fees
Required school reports or NAPLAN results
Portfolio requirements
Interview arrangements
Scholarship value and duration
Conditions for remaining in the program
When results and offers will be issued

Parents should not rely solely on:

Information from previous years
Social media posts
Informal discussions
Information obtained from other families
Old advertisements or brochures

All details must be confirmed directly with the respective school.

Applications and Registrations

Parents are responsible for completing all applications and registrations directly with the relevant school or testing provider.

This includes:

Completing the application form
Paying any applicable examination fee
Uploading or submitting required documents
Confirming that the application has been received
Recording the examination date and reporting time
Checking identification or equipment requirements
Arranging transport to the examination venue
Following up regarding results, interviews and offers

Melbourne Tutorials does not register students for scholarship, SEAL, SEALP, SELP or other accelerated-program entrance examinations.

No Separate Notifications from Melbourne Tutorials

Please note that Melbourne Tutorials will not send separate emails, reminders or individual notifications to parents regarding forthcoming scholarship examinations, SEAL tests, SELP tests or other accelerated-program entrance examinations.

It is the responsibility of parents to:

Regularly check the official websites of schools in which they are interested
Contact the schools directly
Confirm current application and examination details
Observe closing dates
Complete registrations within the required period
Maintain their own calendar of tests and interviews

Some schools may open registrations for only a short period. Others may close registrations once testing capacity has been reached.

Role of Melbourne Tutorials

Melbourne Tutorials will provide broad academic preparation through the Scholars Program.

However, all decisions concerning:

Eligibility
Enrolment
Zoning
Registration
Examination arrangements
Shortlisting
Interviews
Scholarship awards
Program entry
School admission

remain entirely with the respective schools.

Participation in the Melbourne Tutorials Scholars Program does not guarantee:

Eligibility for a particular examination
A general enrolment place at a school
Selection for an interview
Receipt of a scholarship
Entry into a SEAL, SELP or accelerated program
Admission to any particular school

Final Reminder

The schools listed in this note are examples only and do not form an exhaustive list. Many other Victorian schools may offer academic scholarships, SEAL programs, Select Entry programs, high-achiever streams or other accelerated-learning pathways. The Melbourne Tutorials Scholars Program is broad-based and does not cater to any particular school or examination. Parents must contact the relevant schools directly, verify all current information and complete the required applications. Melbourne Tutorials will not send separate reminders regarding forthcoming examinations, tests or application deadlines.

Parents are encouraged to begin their research early and maintain their own record of: