In their words
Which schools suit what your child loves?
Search for a sport, instrument, subject or worry to see which Brisbane schools people mention it at, and what they said. Tick up to three schools to compare them.
45 schools where people talk about enrolment and getting in.
Order:Best matchMost talked aboutLowest feesA to Z
How we work these numbers out
- Order. “Best match” puts schools where your exact word comes up first. “Most talked about” uses the share of reviews that mention it. Neither is a ranking of how good a school is.
- Comes up in X% of reviews is the share of the school's reviews that mention your search. The Brisbane average is the same share across all Brisbane schools.
- Speak well, mixed or raise concerns is worked out by software, using only the sentences about your search. It's right most of the time but not always, so read what people said.
- What students did comes from the sports and activities former students ticked in their review. We show it when at least 3 answered.
- Evidence is strong when 5 or more of at least 10 reviews mention it, some when 2 or more people do, and thin when only one person does.
- Facts such as fees, ATAR and enrolments come from each school's own documents. Fees cover different year levels at different schools, so compare carefully.
- Open Day Reflections come from our visits to 2026 open days. They're useful, but they reflect the school's own voice.
Brisbane State High School
Co-ed · State, competitive entry · South Brisbane
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Sport GPS (boys), QGSSSA (girls)
- Median ATAR 94.4 (2025)source
- Students 3,569
Strong evidence34 separate reviews mention it, out of 36.
Comes up in 94% of 36 reviews · 3.9× the Brisbane average (24%)
This school 94% Brisbane 24%
Of 42 comments: 6 speak well of it · 1 raises concerns
Review Preparing for entry
I got into Brisbane State High School through the local catchment area, so the main requirement was proving my residential address. There weren’t any tests or interviews involved for me. I just had to complete the standard enrolment paperwork and pay the associated enrolment fees. It was a fairly straightforward… Read all
I got into Brisbane State High School through the local catchment area, so the main requirement was proving my residential address. There weren’t any tests or interviews involved for me. I just had to complete the standard enrolment paperwork and pay the associated enrolment fees. It was a fairly straightforward process since I met the residential criteria.
2 more from Brisbane State High School
Review Readiness for life after school
By the time I graduated, I felt academically prepared for university, especially in terms of writing and research skills. The school put a big focus on ATAR and uni pathways, so that side was well covered. However, I think there could’ve been more practical life skills taught — like budgeting, job interviews,… Read all
By the time I graduated, I felt academically prepared for university, especially in terms of writing and research skills. The school put a big focus on ATAR and uni pathways, so that side was well covered. However, I think there could’ve been more practical life skills taught — like budgeting, job interviews, or managing stress after school ends. It was a strong academic foundation, but real-world prep was a bit limited.
Review Why we chose this school
We already lived in the catchment zone, so it was an obvious choice, and Brisbane State High was well known for being a good school with valuable academic support and extracurriculars. I did think this school was worth the cost.
39 more review mentions. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for competitive-entry state schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inQueensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology
Co-ed · State, competitive entry · Toowong
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Median ATAR 94.75 (2025)source
- Students 1,370
Strong evidence21 separate reviews mention it, out of 22.
Comes up in 96% of 22 reviews · 4.0× the Brisbane average (24%)
This school 96% Brisbane 24%
Of 23 comments: 1 raises concerns
Review Preparing for entry
I did not do any specific preparation solely for the entrance exam. However, in the years leading up to the exam, I took tutoring classes including both private and public ones like Kumon. As the exam tested academic areas including writing and mathematics skills, I would say tutoring was especially helpful.
2 more from Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology
Review Preparing for entry
Although the entrance exam was a academic competitive selection process, the exams for QA are difficult to prepare and get tutoring for. As maths was my strong subject, I did not receive external help on that but rather just focused on refining my ability to write under short times. As for the interview,… Read all
Although the entrance exam was a academic competitive selection process, the exams for QA are difficult to prepare and get tutoring for. As maths was my strong subject, I did not receive external help on that but rather just focused on refining my ability to write under short times. As for the interview, it was mainly for the school to get to know you as a student, and it is almost impossible to fail the interview stage.
Review Chances to take part in the arts
Even though subjects like music and drama weren't an option, the school encouraged artistic expression through annual events such as the Battle of the Bands and Festival of Creativity, where students performed instrumental pieces, showcased their paintings etc. Due to a high number of applications, auditions… Read all
Even though subjects like music and drama weren't an option, the school encouraged artistic expression through annual events such as the Battle of the Bands and Festival of Creativity, where students performed instrumental pieces, showcased their paintings etc. Due to a high number of applications, auditions were usually required, but I don't know anyone who applied and didn't get accepted. I was part of a creative writing club, with sessions held every Friday afternoon. I, along with other members, wrote stories and shared ideas together over the course of one to two hours. The school provides opportunities to create and establish clubs if it has enough support, so this is another way that students can be involved in the arts.
20 more review mentions. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for competitive-entry state schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inQueensland Academy for Creative Industries
Co-ed · State, competitive entry · Kelvin Grove
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 437
Some evidence6 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
Comes up in 100% of 5 reviews · 4.2× the Brisbane average (24%)
This school 100% Brisbane 24%
Of 6 comments: 1 speaks well of it
Review Preparing for entry
I did not do any specific preparation. I just made sure I understood everything I was currently doing at school and read through all the details to be as prepared as I could be. I think I discussed my dance in my interview as well as my other commitments like drama and stem club, which may have helped me.
1 more from Queensland Academy for Creative Industries
Review Preparing for entry
My friend bought the online practice test so I used hers and did it probably once. I remember I did prepare for the interview by just rehearsing and scripting questions.
3 more review mentions and 1 more Open Day Reflection. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for competitive-entry state schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inMansfield State High School
Co-ed · State, competitive entry · Mansfield
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 3,978
Strong evidence7 separate reviews mention it, out of 28.
Comes up in 25% of 28 reviews · about the Brisbane average (24%)
This school 25% Brisbane 24%
Of 10 comments: 2 speak well of it
Review Subject range and curiosity
Yes, my school offered a wide range of subject choices, allowing students to explore diverse interests beyond the core curriculum. It encouraged curiosity by offering extracurricular activities, hands-on projects, and special interest clubs related to different fields like science, art, and technology.… Read all
Yes, my school offered a wide range of subject choices, allowing students to explore diverse interests beyond the core curriculum. It encouraged curiosity by offering extracurricular activities, hands-on projects, and special interest clubs related to different fields like science, art, and technology. Teachers also emphasized critical thinking and real-world applications, making learning more engaging than just preparing for exams. These opportunities helped foster a deeper love for learning and encouraged students to pursue their passions.
1 more from Mansfield State High School
Review What had the biggest impact
Great teachers and a motivating environment had the biggest impact on my school experience. Their support and dedication inspired my love for learning. Hands-on programs and real-world applications made education engaging. This experience taught me perseverance, the value of knowledge, and the importance of continuous self-improvement.
8 more review mentions. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for competitive-entry state schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inBrisbane Grammar School
Boys · Independent · Spring Hill
- Fees $37,960 a year (2026, Years 7-12)
- Sport GPS
- Median ATAR 95 (2025)source
- Students 2,021
- Boarding (boys only)
Some evidence4 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
Comes up in 17% of 12 reviews · about the Brisbane average (24%)
This school 17% Brisbane 24%
Of 4 comments: 1 speaks well of it
2 more review mentions and 2 more Open Day Reflections. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inBrisbane South State Secondary College
Co-ed · State · Dutton Park
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 1,444
Some evidence4 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
2 of 2 reviews so far mention it
Too few reviews to compare with other schools.
Of 7 comments: 1 speaks well of it · 1 raises concerns
Review How the school works with parents
They don't really have enough Parent-Teacher Interviews. While I understand teachers can be busy, it would be helpful so parents know more about what's going on in their children's classrooms.
4 more from Brisbane South State Secondary College
Review Expectations versus reality
The school met my academic expectations. There were talks about the new school should be similar standard as Brisbane State high but I never expect it to be, since its students are mostly from the catchment. Only small proportion of students are through the selective entry program.
Review How the school works with parents
The school engaged with parents very well. Examples are the parent-teacher interviews, Meet and Greet with teachers, Excellence ceremonies, River Fire fete in the school grounds. We receive regular school notice and announcement. Teachers are all responsive to emails in my personal experience.
Review Why we chose this school
It’s a brand new school with great facilities and great reputation just after opening two years. My child passed the selective entry exam as out of catchment student and gained entry to its Biomedical and Science Academy. It's a state school so the cost is minimal. We are very happy with the school.
Review The parent community
I believe there is a close-knit community and parents tend to know each other because the majority of students are from local families who lives in the catchment. I'm not personally involved in the P&C Association but I heard it's well run.
2 more Open Day Reflections. A free account opens them, and you don't need a card.
Create free accountSign inSt Peters Lutheran College
Co-ed · Independent · Indooroopilly
- Fees $26,786 a year (2026, Years 10-12 day students)
- Sport QGSSSA (girls), AIC (boys)
- Median ATAR 90.5 (2025)source
- Students 2,302
- Boarding
Some evidence4 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
Comes up in 21% of 19 reviews · about the Brisbane average (24%)
This school 21% Brisbane 24%
Of 6 comments: 3 speak well of it
6 more review mentions. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inIndooroopilly State High School
Co-ed · State · Indooroopilly
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 2,910
Some evidence4 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
Comes up in 17% of 23 reviews · about the Brisbane average (24%)
This school 17% Brisbane 24%
Of 5 comments: 2 speak well of it · 1 raises concerns
Review Why we chose this school
We chose Indooroopilly State High School because of its strong academic reputation, diverse student community, and excellent extracurricular offerings, especially in music, STEM and language programs. We live within the catchment, so no major move was needed, but we did consider private options and decided… Read all
We chose Indooroopilly State High School because of its strong academic reputation, diverse student community, and excellent extracurricular offerings, especially in music, STEM and language programs. We live within the catchment, so no major move was needed, but we did consider private options and decided Indooroopilly SHS provided comparable quality without the high tuition fees. We absolutely feel the school is worth it given the quality of teaching, facilities and the wide range of opportunities available to students. It has met and, in many ways, exceeded our expectations.
1 more from Indooroopilly State High School
Review Readiness for life after school
By graduation, I felt reasonably prepared for the next steps, whether that was university or entering the workforce. The school provided career advice sessions and helped us with university applications, which was very useful. In terms of character, I learned a lot about perseverance and time management… Read all
By graduation, I felt reasonably prepared for the next steps, whether that was university or entering the workforce. The school provided career advice sessions and helped us with university applications, which was very useful. In terms of character, I learned a lot about perseverance and time management from balancing my workload and extracurricular activities. Teachers often encouraged us to work honestly and support each other, which helped foster a sense of integrity and teamwork. However, I think the school could have done more to teach practical life skills, like budgeting or managing stress, to better prepare us for independence.
3 more review mentions. A free account opens them, and you don't need a card.
Create free accountSign inBrisbane Boys' College
Boys · Independent · Toowong
- Fees $36,492 a year (2026, Years 7-12)
- Sport GPS
- Median ATAR 90.05 (2025)source
- Students 1,314
- Boarding (boys only)
Some evidence2 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
Comes up in 17% of 12 reviews · about the Brisbane average (24%)
This school 17% Brisbane 24%
Of 4 comments: 2 speak well of it
4 more review mentions. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inBrisbane Girls Grammar School
Girls · Independent · Spring Hill
- Fees $34,088 a year (2026, Years 7-12, all-inclusive)
- Sport QGSSSA
- Median ATAR 96.45 (2025)source
- Students 1,792
Some evidence4 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
Comes up in 13% of 15 reviews · below the Brisbane average (24%)
This school 13% Brisbane 24%
Of 4 comments: 1 speaks well of it · 1 raises concerns
2 more review mentions and 2 more Open Day Reflections. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign inCleveland District State High School
Co-ed · State · Cleveland
- Fees No tuition fees (state school)
- Students 2,415
Some evidence3 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
Comes up in 33% of 9 reviews · about the Brisbane average (24%)
This school 33% Brisbane 24%
Of 4 comments: 1 raises concerns
4 more review mentions. A free account opens them, and you don't need a card.
Create free accountSign inMount Alvernia College
Girls · Catholic · Kedron
- Fees $14,164 a year (2026, Year 12)
- Sport CaSSSA
- Median ATAR 90.55 (2025)source
- Students 985
Some evidence2 people mention it. Worth reading what they said.
0 of 1 review so far mention it
Too few reviews to compare with other schools.
Of 2 comments: 2 speak well of it
2 more Open Day Reflections. Reviews and Open Day Reflections for independent and Catholic schools are part of Full Access: one $289 payment, no subscription.
Get Full AccessSign in
Reviews come from parents and former students whose link to the school we've checked. Open Day Reflections come from our recordings at 2026 open days. Words in [brackets] were unclear, and […] marks a skipped part. They reflect the school's own voice, so read them alongside the reviews. How reviews work