John Paul College scholarships: the ACER test, value and 2027 dates

Quick answer: John Paul College in Daisy Hill awards Academic Excellence Scholarships for Years 7 to 11 using the ACER scholarship exam, held at the college. The value is tied to the result: 50% remission for students above the 95th percentile and 25% above the 90th percentile. For 2028 entry, the test is on Saturday 27 February 2027, with registration closing on Sunday 7 February 2027 and a $150 fee.

John Paul College at a glance

John Paul College is unusual in publishing the percentile thresholds behind its awards, which tells families exactly what result is needed. Scholarship holders must take part in at least two co-curricular activities each year, reviewed annually.

Which test does John Paul College use?

John Paul College uses the ACER scholarship exam, sat at the college. Year 7 applicants sit Level 1.

The ACER scholarship test is set by the Australian Council for Educational Research. Year 7 and 8 entry uses Level 1, with Written Expression (two 25-minute tasks), Humanities (about 40 to 45 multiple-choice questions in 40 minutes) and Mathematics (about 32 to 36 questions in 40 minutes). Primary entry (Years 4 to 6) uses Level P, with Reading and Viewing, Mathematics and Writing. Later secondary entry uses Levels 2 and 3.

Many Queensland schools use ACER's cooperative sitting, where your child sits the test once and the results go to each school you've registered with. For 2028 entry, the cooperative sitting is on Saturday 27 February 2027, with registrations closing on Sunday 7 February 2027.

More on this test: The ACER scholarship test explained · Which ACER level your child sits

Key dates for 2028 entry

Dates change each year and schools sometimes switch providers, so always confirm on John Paul College's scholarship page before you register.

What else counts

• A high-level result in the ACER exam (above the 90th percentile for an award)
• Above-average achievement in NAPLAN and the last two years of school reports
• Participation in at least two co-curricular activities each year
• A resume of achievements
• Qualities compatible with the college's values

How to prepare

• Start about three months out. For a February test, that means November.
• Sit one full timed practice test in the right format to find the weakest section.
• Practise writing under time, with feedback on one thing at a time. Writing is the section families find hardest to judge at home.
• Build reading stamina with a mix of fiction, non-fiction and poetry, and talk about what writers imply, not just what happens.
• Keep the last week light. Familiarity and rest matter more than cramming.

Practice for the ACER scholarship test

Our ACER Level 1 practice tests are designed for Year 7 entry, with Humanities, Mathematics and Written Expression. Check the product page for the available mocks and writing-marking options.

These are independent practice materials, not official test papers, and they don't predict scholarship outcomes.

Frequently asked questions

What ACER score do you need for a John Paul College scholarship?

Above the 90th percentile for a 25% remission, and above the 95th percentile for a 50% remission.

When is the John Paul College scholarship test?

For 2028 entry, Saturday 27 February 2027. Registration closes on Sunday 7 February 2027.

How much does it cost to sit?

$150 for basic registration.

Other Queensland schools

• Ormiston College
• Moreton Bay College
• Citipointe Christian College
• Somerville House

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 John Paul College, ACER, EduTest or AAS. Details are from the school, the test providers and published sources as of 27 October 2026. Always check the school's own website for current dates and conditions.