For students in New York City looking to attend a specialized high school, the Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT) is a crucial step in the admissions process. The SHSAT is a rigorous exam that assesses students’ skills in math and English language arts and is used by eight of the nine specialized high schools in the city to determine admissions.
While the SHSAT can be daunting for many students, the registration process doesn’t have to be. With a step-by-step guide, students and their families can navigate the registration process with ease and confidence. From creating an account on the MySchools website to selecting their preferred test date and location, this guide will provide all the information students need to successfully register for the SHSAT.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Before registering for the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT), it is essential to determine if you are eligible to take the exam. The SHSAT is only available to students who are residents of New York City and are currently in the 8th or 9th grade. In addition, students must be enrolled in a public or private school or have been homeschooled for at least one year before taking the exam.
Students attending a New York City Department of Education (NYCDOE) public school will automatically receive a ticket to take the SHSAT. However, students attending a private school or homeschooled will need to register for the exam through the NYC MySchools website.
It is important to note that the SHSAT is only one component of the specialized high school admissions process. Students must also submit a high school application and meet their preferred high schools’ academic and attendance requirements.
Step 2: Create an Account
Once you have selected the date and location for the SHSAT, the next step is to create an account. This account will allow you to access your test scores and other important information.
To create an account, visit the NYC Schools Account homepage and click the “Create Account” button. You must provide your personal information, including your name, date of birth, and email address. You will also need to create a username and password. Make sure to choose a strong password that you will remember.
After you have created your account, you will receive a confirmation email. Click on the link in the email to verify your account. Once your account is verified, you can access your SHSAT scores and other important information.
It is important to note that you must have an NYC Schools Account to view your SHSAT scores. If you do not have an account, you cannot access your scores. Therefore, creating an account as soon as possible is crucial to ensure you can access your scores when they become available.
Step 3: Register for the Test
After creating an account on MySchools and selecting the specialized high schools you wish to attend, it’s time to register for the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT).
The registration process is simple and can be completed through MySchools. To register, click “Begin registration for the Specialized High Schools” on the dashboard page and follow the steps to register for the SHSAT. You must indicate your school preference and whether you cannot test on a Saturday or Sunday.
It’s important to note that registration for the SHSAT typically opens in early September and closes in late October. Make sure to register before the deadline to ensure that you can take the test.
Once you have successfully registered for the SHSAT, you will receive a test ticket. This ticket contains essential information such as where and when you will take the test, your student ID, and your current school’s code number. Make sure to bring your test ticket with you on test day.
Step 4: Receive the Admission Ticket
After completing the registration process, students will receive an admission ticket from their school’s guidance counselor. The admission ticket indicates the date, time, and location of the SHSAT. It is vital to keep the admission ticket in a safe place and bring it on test day.
Students with issues taking the SHSAT and applying/auditioning for LaGuardia High School can have their school staff contact [email protected] for assistance.
It is important to note that admission tickets are non-transferable and cannot be shared with other students. Students who lose their admission ticket should contact their school’s guidance counselor immediately to obtain a new one.
Conclusion
Registering for the SHSAT can be a daunting task. Still, it can be done smoothly with correct information and preparation. The first step is to create an account on MySchools NYC and follow the registration steps. It is essential to remember the registration deadlines and the test dates to ensure that you do not miss any deadlines.
Once you have registered, it is crucial to prepare for the test by taking practice tests, reviewing the content covered on the test, and seeking help from tutors or teachers if needed. It is also vital to ensure you are well-rested and have all the necessary materials on test day.
Remember, the SHSAT is just one factor in the admissions process for specialized high schools. Focusing on your grades, extracurricular activities, and other accomplishments is crucial to make your application stand out.
Overall, registering for the SHSAT requires careful planning and preparation. Following the steps outlined in this guide and seeking help when needed can increase your chances of success on the test and in the admissions process.
