Penrith High School is a fully selective co-educational school serving families across Western and outer-Western Sydney. As the key selective hub for the Penrith and Blue Mountains region, it offers strong academic programs with a focus on STEM and creative arts.
The go-to selective school for families in far-western Sydney. A strong academic pathway without the long commute to inner-city schools.
Key Features
Languages: Japanese, French
Estimated Cutoff Scores
How Penrith compares under the old and new test systems.
Entry Requirements
- 1Sit the NSW Selective High School Placement Test (May 2026)
- 2List Penrith as a preference on your application
- 3Score competitively across all four modules: Reading, Maths, Thinking Skills, and Writing
- 4Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
How to Prepare
A structured approach to preparing for Penrith entry.
A strong, balanced performance across all four sections is key to gaining entry to Penrith. Consistent practice across Reading, Maths, Thinking Skills, and Writing will build the confidence and speed needed for test day.
Assess Current Level
Target Your Weaknesses
Master Time Management
Polish Your Writing
Simulate Exam Day
Practise under timed conditions to build exam stamina and focus on any weaker areas. Use AI writing feedback to refine your typed responses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from parents about Penrith.
Penrith High School is estimated to require scores in the range of 88-94 out of 120 on the new computer-based test format (equivalent to approximately 190-200 out of 300 on the old system). NSW DoE no longer publishes official cut-off scores, so these are estimates based on historical data and market references.
Yes. Penrith High School is one of 17 fully selective comprehensive high schools in NSW. All students are admitted through the NSW Selective High School Placement Test — there is no local intake.
Penrith High School offers approximately 150 Year 7 places each year through the selective placement test. Competition is strong, particularly among families in the Penrith, Blue Mountains, and broader western Sydney region.
For families in far-western Sydney, Penrith is often a more practical choice than Baulkham Hills or Girraween due to significantly shorter commute times. While cutoff estimates are slightly lower, Penrith delivers strong academic outcomes and avoids the daily travel burden that can affect student wellbeing.
Penrith High School offers a broad selective curriculum with particular strengths in STEM subjects, technology, and creative arts. Like all NSW selective schools, students follow the NSW curriculum with extension opportunities in mathematics, science, and English.