OLNA numeracy: 45 questions in 50 minutes
OLNA numeracy is 45 multiple-choice questions in 50 minutes, testing everyday maths at the minimum standard. This page explains the format and how to prepare through familiarisation rather than drilling.
Last checked against the official sources.
Numeracy is 45 multiple-choice questions in 50 minutes. It checks everyday maths, not advanced topics.
The format
SCSA's example test for numeracy has 45 multiple-choice questions, with 50 minutes allowed. It is sat online. Students sit it only if they have not already met the standard.
What it checks
The standard is Level 3 of the Australian Core Skills Framework. In numeracy that is the maths needed for daily life and work, such as using money, measuring, reading charts and working with time.
Getting ready
Read the whole question and check what is being asked, such as total cost or change, before calculating.
- Do SCSA's practice or example test once to see the screen and the tools.
- Use real situations: shopping, recipes, timetables, distances.
- Check SCSA's materials for which tools are available on screen.
SCSA publishes its own practice and example tests for students to become familiar with the test. They are the official materials.
For parents
Keep practice short and relaxed. Talk through how your child got an answer, not only whether it was right.
Avoid late-night cramming before a window. Familiarity and rest help more.
Details come from SCSA's practice and example tests page. Please confirm the current format with SCSA and your school. No guarantee of results is made. See also reading and writing.
ExamExplained is run alongside a tutoring business. This page is our own plain-language explanation. It is not official and is not endorsed by SCSA, and we do not offer OLNA practice.