NAPLAN 2026
📅 NAPLAN 2026 Test Window
Wednesday 11 March - Monday 23 March 2026
Key Testing Information:
- Test Window: 9 school days (11-23 March 2026)
- Writing Test Day: Wednesday 11 March 2026 (Day 1 - all students)
- Other Tests: Scheduled by schools throughout the testing window
- Priority: Schools must prioritise testing in Week 1
What is NAPLAN?
NAPLAN (National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy) is an annual assessment for all Australian students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. It measures student progress in literacy and numeracy skills that are essential for every child to progress through school and life.
Key Features:
- National: Conducted Australia-wide in all states and territories
- Online Format: Fully online since 2022 (except Year 3 Writing)
- Adaptive Testing: Test adjusts difficulty based on student responses
- Not Pass/Fail: No student "fails" NAPLAN - it's a snapshot of progress
- Free: No cost to students or parents
Who Takes NAPLAN?
All students in these year levels across Australia participate in NAPLAN during the testing window.
NAPLAN 2026 Test Domains
Four Assessment Domains
NAPLAN tests students in four key areas (domains):
📝 Writing
Year 3: Paper-based (40 minutes)
Years 5, 7, 9: Online (42 minutes)
📖 Reading
Comprehension of written texts - literary and informational passages
✏️ Conventions of Language
Spelling, grammar, and punctuation
🔢 Numeracy
Mathematics problem-solving, number sense, algebra, measurement, statistics
NAPLAN 2026 Complete Test Schedule
Year 3 Test Schedule and Duration
| Domain | Duration | Approx. Questions | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Writing | 40 minutes | 1 task | 📄 Paper-based |
| Reading | 45 minutes | ~39 questions | 💻 Online (adaptive) |
| Conventions of Language | 45 minutes | ~50 questions | 💻 Online (adaptive) |
| Numeracy | 45 minutes | ~36 questions | 💻 Online (adaptive) |
Year 5 Test Schedule and Duration
| Domain | Duration | Approx. Questions | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Writing | 42 minutes | 1 task | 💻 Online |
| Reading | 50 minutes | ~39 questions | 💻 Online (adaptive) |
| Conventions of Language | 45 minutes | ~50 questions | 💻 Online (adaptive) |
| Numeracy | 50 minutes | ~42 questions | 💻 Online (adaptive) |
Year 7 Test Schedule and Duration
| Domain | Duration | Approx. Questions | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Writing | 42 minutes | 1 task | 💻 Online |
| Reading | 65 minutes | ~48 questions | 💻 Online (adaptive) |
| Conventions of Language | 45 minutes | ~50 questions | 💻 Online (adaptive) |
| Numeracy | 65 minutes | ~48 questions | 💻 Online (adaptive) |
Year 9 Test Schedule and Duration
| Domain | Duration | Approx. Questions | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Writing | 42 minutes | 1 task | 💻 Online |
| Reading | 65 minutes | ~48 questions | 💻 Online (adaptive) |
| Conventions of Language | 45 minutes | ~50 questions | 💻 Online (adaptive) |
| Numeracy | 65 minutes | ~48 questions | 💻 Online (adaptive) |
Detailed Test Timetable 2026
⚠️ Important Scheduling Requirements
Day 1 - Wednesday 11 March 2026:
- ✅ Writing test MUST be completed on Day 1 for all year levels
- Year 3 students must complete paper-based writing
- Years 5, 7, 9 complete online writing (Day 2 only if technical issues prevent Day 1 completion)
- Reading may be completed after Writing on Day 1
Days 2-9 (Thursday 12 March - Monday 23 March 2026):
- Schools schedule Reading, Conventions of Language, and Numeracy tests
- Catch-up tests available for absent students
- Schools must prioritise Week 1 for testing
| Week/Day | Date | Testing Activities |
|---|---|---|
| WEEK 1 - PRIORITY TESTING WEEK | ||
| Day 1 | Wednesday 11 March |
✅ WRITING (All Years - MANDATORY) • Year 3: Paper-based writing • Years 5, 7, 9: Online writing • Reading may begin after Writing |
| Day 2 | Thursday 12 March |
• Reading • Conventions of Language • Numeracy • Catch-up tests (all domains) • Writing (Years 5,7,9 - only if tech issues on Day 1) |
| Day 3 | Friday 13 March |
• Reading • Conventions of Language • Numeracy • Catch-up tests (all domains) |
| WEEK 2 - CONTINUED TESTING | ||
| Day 4 | Monday 16 March |
• Reading • Conventions of Language • Numeracy • Catch-up tests • Last day for Year 3 Writing catch-ups |
| Days 5-6 | Tuesday 17 - Wednesday 18 March |
• Reading • Conventions of Language • Numeracy • Catch-up tests (except Year 3 Writing) |
| Days 7-9 | Thursday 19 - Monday 23 March |
• Reading • Conventions of Language • Numeracy • Final catch-up tests |
Understanding Adaptive Testing
How NAPLAN Online Works
NAPLAN uses computer-adaptive testing (tailored testing) for Reading, Conventions of Language, and Numeracy. This means:
How Adaptive Testing Works:
- Personalised Difficulty: Questions adjust based on student responses
- If Correct: Next question is slightly harder
- If Incorrect: Next question is slightly easier
- More Precise: Better measures each student's ability level
- Reduces Frustration: Students aren't faced with too many impossible questions
- Unique Test: Each student gets a different sequence of questions
Benefits:
- ✅ More accurate measurement of student ability
- ✅ Appropriate challenge level for all students
- ✅ Faster, more reliable results
- ✅ Better student experience - not too hard or too easy
Content Assessed in NAPLAN 2026
1. Writing Domain
What's Tested:
Students respond to a writing stimulus (prompt) and create a written text. They are assessed on:
- Audience: Writing appropriate for intended audience
- Text Structure: Organisation and coherence of ideas
- Ideas: Quality and development of ideas
- Persuasive Devices: Use of language to persuade or entertain
- Vocabulary: Word choice and language use
- Cohesion: Linking ideas smoothly
- Paragraphing: Appropriate paragraph structure
- Sentence Structure: Sentence variety and complexity
- Punctuation: Correct use of punctuation marks
- Spelling: Accuracy in spelling
Text Types: Narrative or persuasive writing (varies each year)
2. Reading Domain
What's Tested:
Students read passages and answer comprehension questions testing:
- Literal Comprehension: Finding information directly stated in text
- Inferential Comprehension: Reading between the lines, making inferences
- Vocabulary: Understanding word meanings in context
- Text Purpose: Understanding why a text was written
- Text Structure: Understanding how texts are organised
- Author's Viewpoint: Understanding perspective and bias
Text Types: Literary texts (stories, poems) and informational texts (articles, reports, instructions)
3. Conventions of Language
What's Tested:
Spelling:
- Correct spelling of words appropriate for year level
- Common words, homophones, tricky spellings
Grammar:
- Parts of speech (nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs)
- Tense and agreement
- Sentence types and structure
Punctuation:
- Capital letters, full stops, commas
- Apostrophes, quotation marks
- Advanced punctuation (Years 7 & 9)
4. Numeracy Domain
Mathematical Content Strands:
Number and Algebra:
- Whole numbers: 456 + 789 = 1,245
- Fractions and decimals: ½ = 0.5 = 50%
- Operations: 8 × 7 = 56
- Patterns and algebra: x + 5 = 12, x = 7
- Ratio and proportion: 2:3 = 4:6
Measurement and Geometry:
- Length, area, volume: Area = l × w
- Perimeter: P = 2(l + w)
- Time, mass, capacity
- Angles, shapes, transformations
- Coordinate geometry (Years 7 & 9)
Statistics and Probability:
- Data interpretation: graphs, tables, charts
- Mean, median, mode, range
- Probability concepts
Calculator:
An on-screen calculator is available for some numeracy questions (approximately 60% of questions allow calculator use).
NAPLAN Proficiency Standards 2026
New 4-Level Proficiency Scale
From 2023, NAPLAN replaced the 10-band system with a 4-proficiency level system that's easier to understand:
| Proficiency Level | Description | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Exceeding | Student achievement exceeds expectations for this year level | ✅ Above expected standard |
| Strong | Student achievement is at expected standard | ✅ Meeting expectations |
| Developing | Student is working towards expected standard | ⚠️ Needs continued support |
| Needs Additional Support | Student achievement indicates need for additional support | ❌ Requires intervention |
Understanding Your Child's Results:
- Results show proficiency level for each domain
- Numerical scores are also provided
- Results compare student to national average
- Growth is tracked from previous NAPLAN tests
When Will Results Be Released?
📊 Results Timeline
Expected Results Release: June - July 2026
How Results Are Delivered:
- Individual Student Reports: Sent to schools, then to parents/carers
- NAPLAN Online: Parents can access results through parent portal (if registered)
- School Reports: Schools receive detailed class and school-level reports
- Timeline: Typically 3-4 months after testing
What's In the Report:
- Proficiency level for each domain
- Numerical score and scale
- Comparison to national average
- Growth since previous NAPLAN (if applicable)
- Explanation of results and proficiency standards
Preparation for NAPLAN 2026
For Students
📚 Regular Classwork
The best preparation is engaging with regular classroom learning throughout the year.
📖 Read Daily
Read a variety of texts - books, articles, instructions, poems - to build comprehension skills.
✍️ Write Often
Practice writing different text types. Focus on planning, drafting, and editing.
🔢 Practice Math
Work on problem-solving, not just memorizing. Understand WHY strategies work.
💻 Practice Online
Use NAPLAN practice tests online to familiarize with digital format and adaptive testing.
😌 Stay Calm
NAPLAN is just a snapshot. Do your best but don't stress - it doesn't define you.
For Parents and Carers
- Keep Perspective: NAPLAN is one measure of progress, not the only measure
- Reduce Anxiety: Reassure your child - NAPLAN doesn't determine their future
- Encourage Reading: Read together, discuss books, visit the library
- Support Writing: Encourage writing - letters, stories, journals, emails
- Practice Math: Use everyday situations - cooking, shopping, building, sports
- Use Practice Tests: Try official NAPLAN practice tests at home
- Ensure Good Sleep: Well-rested students perform better
- Healthy Breakfast: Nutritious breakfast on test days
- Communicate with Teachers: Ask about preparation and areas to focus on
Official NAPLAN Resources
Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA)
NAP Official Website NAPLAN Information NAPLAN Key Dates Practice Tests (Demo Site) Parent Information Brochure (PDF)State and Territory Test Administration Authorities
Contact your state/territory education authority for specific information:
- NSW: NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA)
- VIC: Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA)
- QLD: Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA)
- WA: School Curriculum and Standards Authority (SCSA)
- SA: South Australian Department for Education
- TAS: Tasmanian Department of Education
- ACT: ACT Education Directorate
- NT: Northern Territory Department of Education
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all students have to do NAPLAN?
All students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 are expected to participate. However, parents can choose to withdraw their child by notifying the school. Students with significant disabilities may be exempt.
Does NAPLAN affect my child's school grades?
No. NAPLAN results do not impact school report cards or grades. It's a separate national assessment to measure progress against national standards.
Is NAPLAN pass or fail?
No. There is no pass or fail. NAPLAN provides information about student achievement against national proficiency standards.
What if my child is absent on test day?
Schools can arrange catch-up tests during the testing window for students absent on scheduled test days. Contact your school immediately if your child will be absent.
Can students use calculators in numeracy?
Yes. An on-screen calculator is provided for approximately 60% of numeracy questions. Students should practice with it during practice tests.
Why is Year 3 writing on paper while others are online?
Year 3 students complete writing on paper to account for their developing keyboarding skills. All other tests for Year 3 are online, and Years 5, 7, 9 complete all tests online.
How long does each test take?
Test duration varies by year level: 40-65 minutes per test. Students work at their own pace - tests are not strictly timed but have time guidelines.
When will I receive my child's results?
Results are typically released in June-July 2026, approximately 3-4 months after testing. Schools distribute individual student reports to parents.
Can I see practice tests before the real test?
Yes! ACARA provides a public demonstration site with sample tests for all year levels. Visit nap.edu.au to access practice tests.
Important Reminders
- Test Window: 11-23 March 2026 - Mark these dates on your calendar
- Writing Day 1: All students must complete Writing on Wednesday 11 March
- No Excursions: Schools should not schedule camps, excursions, or carnivals during test window
- Online Format: All tests online except Year 3 Writing (paper-based)
- Adaptive Testing: Questions adjust based on responses - every test is unique
- Practice Available: Use official NAPLAN practice site year-round
- Results: June-July 2026 - Individual reports sent to parents via schools
- Not Pass/Fail: NAPLAN is a progress snapshot, not a judgment
Final Thoughts
NAPLAN is designed to provide valuable information about how students are progressing in literacy and numeracy - essential skills for every child's education and future. It's important to remember that NAPLAN is just one measure of student learning alongside classroom assessments, reports, and teacher observations.
The best preparation for NAPLAN is consistent engagement with learning throughout the school year. Students who read regularly, write often, practice mathematics, and participate actively in class will be well-prepared. Using official practice tests helps students become familiar with the online format and adaptive testing experience.
Parents and carers play an important role in supporting students by maintaining perspective, reducing anxiety, and reinforcing that NAPLAN results don't define a student's potential or worth. Encourage effort, celebrate progress, and remember that every student has unique strengths and areas for development.
Best wishes to all Australian students taking NAPLAN in March 2026!
⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about NAPLAN 2026 based on official ACARA publications and state education authorities. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, specific procedures may vary by state, territory, and individual schools. Always verify information with your child's school and your state/territory test administration authority. Testing schedules and procedures are subject to change. Information is accurate as of October 2025.
Last Updated: October 2025 | Official Source: Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA)