The Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT) is a standardized test used by the New York City Department of Education to determine admissions to the city’s specialized high schools. These schools are some of the most prestigious high schools in the country, and access is highly competitive. In this article, we will provide an overview of the SHSAT and the specialized high schools and a guide to interpreting SHSAT scores for admissions decisions.
Overview of the SHSAT and Specialized High Schools
The SHSAT is a multiple-choice test measuring a student’s math and English language arts knowledge and skills. The test is administered to eighth and ninth graders applying to one of the nine specialized high schools in New York City. These schools include:
- Bronx High School of Science
- Brooklyn Latin School
- Brooklyn Technical High School
- High School for Mathematics, Science and Engineering at City College
- High School of American Studies at Lehman College
- Queens High School for the Sciences at York College
- Staten Island Technical High School
- Stuyvesant High School
- Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts (admissions based on audition or portfolio)
Admissions to these schools are highly competitive, with thousands of students competing for a limited number of spots each year.
Timeline of the SHSAT and Admissions Process
The SHSAT is typically administered in October for eighth graders and in November for ninth graders. Students must register for the test in the fall, usually in September. After taking the test, students receive their scores in December.
Once students receive their scores, they must apply to the specialized high schools they are interested in attending. Applications are typically due in December or January, and admissions decisions are usually announced in March.
Interpreting SHSAT Scores
SHSAT scores are reported on a scale of 400 to 1600. The score is based on the number of questions answered correctly on the test’s math and English language arts sections. Raw scores are converted to scaled scores to determine a student’s percentile rank.
Each specialized high school has its own cutoff score, the minimum score a student must achieve to be considered for admission. The cutoff score depends on the number of available spots in the class and the number of students who choose to go there. For example, the cutoff score for Stuyvesant High School in the 2021-2022 school year was 524, while the cutoff score for Bronx Science was 516. Students below the cutoff score for their desired school are not considered for admission.
Final Thoughts
Interpreting SHSAT scores can be a complex process, but by understanding the scoring system and percentile rank, students and families can better understand their chances of admission to specialized high schools. It’s important to remember that SHSAT scores are just one factor in admissions decisions, and schools also consider a student’s grades, attendance, and other factors when making admissions decisions.
If you are interested in applying to a specialized high school in New York City, it’s essential to start preparing early and to set aside dedicated study time each week. Students can make the most of their study time and feel confident on test day by staying organized and focused. Good luck!
