The National Assessment Program — Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a national test conducted online in March each year. Students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 complete individual tests in four areas (or ‘domains’):
- Writing (Year 3 students sit the writing test on paper)
- Reading
- Conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation)
- Numeracy
For more information about test formats and student participation, refer to the National protocols for test administration.
NAPLAN is used by governments, education authorities and schools to determine whether young Australians are meeting important goals in literacy and numeracy.
NAPLAN gives a snapshot of how children are performing in reading, writing, spelling, punctuation, grammar, and numeracy. It complements other effective classroom assessment and reporting practices.
The role of ACARA and the QCAA
The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) develops the tests and marking standards. The QCAA coordinates the administration, marking, and reporting of NAPLAN tests in Queensland.
The QCAA works with Queensland schools and schooling sectors to ensure the smooth delivery of the tests, focusing on the importance of compliance with the administration protocols.
2027 Test dates
NAPLAN testing window
Wednesday 10 – Monday 22 March 2027.
For information regarding the NAPLAN testing timetable and future test dates, visit NAPLAN key dates on ACARA’s National Assessment Program (NAP) website.
Visit ACARA’s NAP website for information regarding Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr and NAPLAN.
2026 School checklist
The school checklist has key dates and information about important NAPLAN tasks and deadlines for schools.
NAPLAN contacts
Contact details for the QCAA and the State school sector.
QCAA
- Phone: 1300 214 452
- Email: naplan@qcaa.qld.edu.au
Department of Education
- Email: NAPLAN.Online@qed.qld.gov.au
- Last updated:
- 12 October 2026
