Albany Creek State High School Catalyst program: HAST entry, dates and how to prepare

Quick answer: Albany Creek State High School's Catalyst program is an accelerated science and mathematics pathway that completes the Years 7 to 9 curriculum in two years, preparing students for early entry to senior ATAR subjects. Entry is in Year 7, using ACER's HAST. For 2027 entry, the test was on Saturday 13 June 2026, with applications closing on 1 June 2026 and a $107 test fee.

Albany Creek State High School at a glance

Catalyst is built for students with a genuine passion for maths and science. Alongside the test, applicants write a short response explaining why the program suits them. Families applying to more than one Albany Creek excellence program complete a preference form.

The entry test

Albany Creek uses HAST, developed by ACER, for Catalyst entry. The test is held at the school.

HAST is ACER's Higher Ability Selection Test, used by schools to select students for gifted and academic programs. The junior secondary version has Reading Comprehension (45 minutes), Mathematical Reasoning (40 minutes), Abstract Reasoning (30 minutes) and Written Expression (25 minutes), although schools can choose which sections to use. It's paper-based, with no calculators and no penalty for wrong answers.

More on HAST: HAST-P vs HAST · HAST results explained

Key dates

Albany Creek runs information sessions before each round. Always confirm on the school's program page before you apply.

What else counts

• HAST results
• A written student response about their passion for maths and science and why Catalyst suits them
• General academic achievement, including Year 5 NAPLAN results and school reports
• A preference form if applying to more than one excellence program

How to prepare

• Sit one full timed HAST-style test a couple of months before the exam to find the weakest section.
• Practise abstract reasoning if the school uses it. Most students have never seen these picture-pattern questions, and familiarity alone saves time.
• Practise 25-minute writing from a picture or statement stimulus, in different styles: a story, a description or an argument.
• Keep reading widely and talk about what writers suggest, not just what happens.
• Answer every multiple-choice question. HAST has no penalty for wrong answers.

HAST-style practice tests

Our HAST-style practice tests are built around the HAST format, including abstract reasoning in the Year 6 sets, with worked explanations, a skill breakdown and writing marked by a human teacher. They're independent practice materials, not official HAST papers, and they don't predict selection outcomes.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Albany Creek Catalyst program?

An accelerated science and maths pathway that completes Years 7 to 9 in two years, preparing students for early entry to senior ATAR subjects.

What test does Catalyst use?

HAST, developed by ACER.

How much does the Catalyst test cost?

$107 for 2027 entry.

Do I need to live in the catchment?

Check the school's enrolment rules; the program application is separate from general enrolment.

Other Queensland schools using HAST

• Murrumba State Secondary College
• Kelvin Grove State College
• Brisbane State High School
• Benowa State High School

See which test every Queensland school uses in our Queensland school scholarships guide.

Practice Tests & Exams is an independent provider and is not affiliated with Albany Creek State High School, ACER or the Queensland Department of Education. Details are from the school and ACER as published by 27 October 2026. Always check the school's website for current dates and requirements.