Yep I've done the RET Test... and trust me, its totally worth it. It can save you a spot at UWS. I'll tell you why below.
what does this test consist of e.g eglish maths......?
The Test consists of
General Knowledge Questions. This means that you do not need to be a master at maths, or English to complete the test - of course, if you are you'll get better marks. The Maths side of the test is relatively simple, you won't get 4 unit maths questions, most mathematics includes the reading of graphs, charts, interpreting numbers and general maths questions. You won't ussually get straight out questions, as they will be hidden in long problems. An example might be like, someone buys a few apples, eats some and blah blah.
The English side of the test is more complicated. ie, you should be 'ok' at english to pass this test. (oh btw there is no pass/fail). If you are doing English Standard you should be fine. You will have to write stories in the writing section, such as commenting on a phrase or writing a newspaper article. And the whole test is english, (except for the graphs) so if you are ok with reading and writing, again - you should be fine.
how long does this test go for?
The Test goes for 3 hours. 2 hours is the mathematics, writing general knowledge section (multiple choice). The last hour is the writing section, where all you do is write stories.
Im in the catchment around the hurstville area so where would be the delegated examination room be held at?
Hmm I'm not sure... probably your closest UWS campus.
how much?
I presume your asking about the cost. The cost is about $110 - $120. Its not that much if you compare it to uni fees hehe
if I do the rets would I be granted in any other unis apart from uws?
No, the RET (Regional Entry Test) is only for UWS, There is a STAT test (Special Tertiary Admissions Test) which is allowed across all Universities, but I'm not sure if you can sit it (I'm thinking that your a Year 12 student).
My english is poor so would this affect my result ?
Again, english is required but only general english. You don't have to be a master to pass the test. As long as you know the general guidelines - and that you can understand general english, you should be fine. Also - if you can keep the markers entertained with your writing - you should score pretty well!
if it is english is it essay or comprehension form?
Its in an essay form. You will be given a phrase or sentence, and you will be asked to comment and/or answer its question (if it has one).
Take note that you will NOT be asked to write about techniques, such as the HSC English papers do. Unless they throw a poem at you - but thats rather rare.
is it worth doing if you do standard maths & english or is it aimed for the more intermediate candidates who do like advanced ext maths & english?
Again, you can do ok if you do those subjects. I did Standard English and General Maths and I got a 67, which is pretty good.
is the uws ret test both or just the multiple choice?
Its Both. You will have a Multiple choice section and a Writing Section.
guys who remember any questions or Rets exam thoughts post them up .....might be useful for future ret candidates
Ask your careers advisor or contact the institution for a sample questions book. Just practice with them to get a feel of the test. You cannot study for the test, as its all general knowledge.
Now, the RET test works like this, (and this is why its very good!).
If your RET score was 70, and your UAI is 10 points under your ret score, ie, 60 - then your UAI for UWS will be guaranteed 70!
Two examples:
RET score: 65
NSW HSC UAI: 60.55
UWS UAI: 65.00
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RET score: 80
NSW HSC UAI: 73.45
UWS UAI: 80.00
So give it a go and goodluck. Remember - there is no pass or fail for the RET test - and the best thing is - don't panic! Its a rather simple test with simple questions
Hope I helped. Msg me if you need any extra help.