International Student Admissions Test
Background
Structure and content
The International Student Admissions Test (ISAT) is produced by ACER to give an indication of the cognitive abilities of international candidates applying to Australian universities.
ISAT is a secure three-hour multiple-choice test. The test is presented in units, with stimulus material followed by questions. ISAT is not a test of subject specific knowledge. Rather, it aims to assess candidates' Critical and Quantitative Reasoning skills.
- Critical Reasoning (CR) - comprehending and analysing information; understanding, applying and extending ideas; drawing appropriate conclusions; evaluating arguments. These questions use materials from the humanities and social sciences.
- Quantitative Reasoning (QR) - analysis and application of information; drawing conclusions and making decisions; solving problems. These questions use material from the mathematics and sciences.
The test is focused on the generic and cross-curricular skills that underpin academic performance, and aims to tap into the abilities that are the foundation of academic success.
Confidentiality
All ISAT candidates are asked to sign a statement acknowledging that relevant authorities may use their test results for research purposes. Candidates are assured that any use of their registration and test records will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Candidate names will be separated from data in all cases. Information about ACER’s collection of, access to and use of personal information can be found at Disclaimers.
Equity and fairness
ISAT is developed to rigorous professional and technical standards. Test questions are designed and developed by a team of ACER test writers who are expert in their subject areas. The content, style and duration of the test are determined to ensure the testing program is relevant, fair, valid and reliable.
ISAT test data are subjected to statistical analysis to check that each test question has performed as required. Test questions in development are carefully scrutinised in an ongoing attempt to minimise gender, ethnic or cultural bias.
As part of the on-going development of ISAT, the test may contain a small number of trial questions which will not be scored.
Applying for special testing conditions
Candidates who suffer an impairment which might interfere with their ability to sit the test in the standard manner, should submit a certified statement to this effect with the registration form and payment. All requests must be accompanied by an explanatory letter from a registered medical practitioner. The reference must be no more than one year old. All reasonable efforts will be made to provide appropriate testing conditions. The graphical nature of many of the items in the test means that ISAT is not suitable for conversion to Braille, audio tape, or e-text.
Role of IDP Education Australia
ACER has a Memorandum of Understanding with IDP Education Australia for the provision of ISAT test centres outside Australia. In countries where there is no IDP Education Australia office, other organisations provide the test centres.