Test window

The NAPLAN online test window is nine days. This allows schools some flexibility in scheduling and accommodates schools that have fewer devices than students. See the full test timetable or download the NAPLAN online test window infographic (PDF 1.23 mb).

Students who are absent when their class participates in the tests can sit catch-up tests later in the test window.

If schools have questions when planning a test schedule specific to their needs, they should contact the relevant state/territory test administration authority.

Schools are able to use the nine-day test window to schedule tests in a manner that best suits their needs. See below the parameters that must be followed.

Years 3 and 5 online test sequence

writing (paper for Year 3 only)
reading
conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation)
numeracy.

Year 3 writing is done on paper by all students and must be scheduled for day 1 of the test window. It is recommended Year 3 writing tests be completed by all classes at the same time in the morning.
Year 5 writing must be scheduled on day 1, with day 2 only used where there are technical or logistical limitations.
Tests must be scheduled as soon as possible within the test window, prioritising scheduling in week one over week two and the morning over the afternoon.

Years 7 and 9 online test sequence

reading (day 1 or after writing)
writing (day 2)
conventions of language
numeracy.

Years 7 and 9 writing must be scheduled on day 2, with day 3 only used where there are technical or logistical limitations. A school can schedule the reading test for day 1 and, if necessary, recommence reading after the writing test has concluded.
Conventions of language can also be completed on day 1, after reading, if convenient.

Technical requirements

To help schools understand the requirements for devices and assess how many students can sit NAPLAN Online tests simultaneously, there is information available on the minimum technical requirements.

The online assessment platform has a capacity planning tool to help schools plan resources such as devices needed and bandwidth allocation in rooms.