Teacher Information for
the ASO National Qualifying Examinations

Quick Links

• Download 2008 NQE Information Brochure
• Register for the NQEs
  

NOTE: policy on NQE enrolments

Up to 24 students can enrol in each NQE from a school for free. For additional enrolments, schools will be asked to contribute a marking fee of $10 per student in each NQE. See the NQE page for more information.

Preparation

Studying past examination papers is the most effective way to prepare for the NQEs. You will find these and a syllabus for each NQE here.

Confirmation of Registration

You will be posted a confirmation card to confirm your registration.

Your ASO School ID Number

The ASO School ID Number helps us identify your school and students' examination papers. It can be found on correspondence sent to you by ASI - if you can not find this ID number, please contact ASI.

The Examinations (NQEs)

The NQEs measure the knowledge and comprehension of the students and their ability to solve challenging problems by applying this knowledge. There is no pass or fail with the NQEs. Students should aim to achieve the highest mark possible as it is their ranking which is important.

The total exam writing time is 120 minutes. Students are allowed 15 minutes to read the paper and complete the Cover Sheet prior to the examination.

• The paper must be completed under rigorous examination conditions.
• Exams are sent to the teacher indicated on the registration form.
• Students should follow the instructions on the exam paper concerning answer formats, choices and advised timings.
• The only aid permitted is a non-programmable electronic calculator.
• The NQE packs should remain sealed until the exam.
• No discussion of the paper should take place outside your school until the week after the NQEs.
• All exams must be returned to ASI for marking.
  

Awards

High Distinction, Distinction, Credit or Participation certificates are awarded to students whose examination paper is returned and will be sent to the teachers by the end of October. Students, their teachers and school principals are also advised if they have been invited to attend the January Science Olympiad Summer School.

To the Teachers

Teachers are asked to nominate students and supervise candidates sitting the NQE. In addition, teachers are usually approached by students with questions outside the normal school curriculum and may hold additional classes or programs to assist with the preparation of NQE candidates. Without the support and assistance of teachers throughout Australia, the ASO program would not exist. Thank you for giving your students this opportunity to further their knowledge and interest in Science and the chance of recognition at a school, state, national and international level.

Updated Nov 2008