For Parents
What Is the SHSAT?
The Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT) is the sole criterion for admission to eight of New York City's nine specialized high schools. Administered by the NYC Department of Education each fall, it is taken by approximately 28,000 students competing for roughly 5,000 seats.
The test consists of 57 questions split across two sections: English Language Arts (revising/editing and reading comprehension) and Mathematics (arithmetic, algebra, geometry, probability, and statistics). Students have 180 minutes (3 hours) to complete both sections, with no scheduled break.
Because the SHSAT is the only factor in admissions, preparation matters. The right strategies, consistent practice, and familiarity with the test format can make a significant difference in your child's score. Explore our blog for SHSAT articles and tips.
Our Approach
Our SHSAT Prep Program
Four pillars of preparation, delivered one-on-one and tailored to your child's strengths and areas for growth.
Diagnostic Assessment
A full-length practice SHSAT under timed conditions. We pinpoint exactly where your child stands in both ELA and Math, then build a personalized prep plan around those results.
Timed Practice
The SHSAT gives students 180 minutes for 57 questions. We drill pacing strategies so your child learns to allocate time wisely and avoid the rush that costs points.
Math Strategies
Word problems, algebraic reasoning, geometry, and data interpretation. We teach efficient problem-solving techniques and pattern recognition specific to SHSAT math.
ELA Strategies
Revising/editing passages and reading comprehension. We build critical reading skills, teach elimination strategies, and practice grammar and usage rules tested on the SHSAT.
Specialized High Schools
Target Schools
The SHSAT determines admission to these eight specialized high schools. We prepare students for all of them.
Stuyvesant High School
Manhattan
Highest cutoff score. Renowned for STEM programs and competitive admissions.
Bronx High School of Science
Bronx
Nobel laureate alumni. Strong science, math, and research programs.
Brooklyn Technical High School
Brooklyn
Largest specialized high school. 17 engineering and STEM majors.
High School of Mathematics, Science & Engineering (HSMSE)
Manhattan
Small school at CCNY campus. Rigorous math and engineering focus.
High School of American Studies at Lehman College
Bronx
Humanities-focused. Strong history and social science curriculum.
Brooklyn Latin School
Brooklyn
Classical education model. Latin requirement and small class sizes.
Queens High School for the Sciences at York College
Queens
STEM-focused with college campus resources. Strong science research.
Staten Island Technical High School
Staten Island
Engineering and technology focus. Collaborative learning environment.
LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts uses auditions rather than the SHSAT. Looking for other test prep? SAT Prep · ISEE Prep
Pricing
SHSAT Prep Pricing
Diagnostic Session
$150
one-time · 2 hours
- Full-length timed practice SHSAT
- Score analysis by section
- Personalized prep plan
- Available Fridays & Saturdays
SHSAT Prep Sessions
$125
per session
- One-on-one SHSAT tutoring
- Math & ELA strategies
- Timed practice drills
- Progress tracking & reports
*Prices subject to change. The diagnostic session is the required first step for all new students.
From Our Blog
SHSAT Prep Resources
SHSAT Study Schedule 2024-2025
3 adaptive study plans based on your child's diagnostic score.
SHSAT Prep Guide 2026: Timeline & Tips
Complete timeline and strategies for NYC specialized high school admissions.
NYC Specialized High Schools Guide
Everything parents need to know about the 9 specialized high schools.
Common Questions
SHSAT Prep FAQs
When should my child start SHSAT prep?+
We recommend starting at least 6 to 9 months before the test, which is typically administered in late October or early November. Beginning in the spring or summer of 7th grade gives students enough time to build skills without burnout. However, some students benefit from starting even earlier with foundational math and reading work.
What is a good SHSAT score?+
The SHSAT is scored on a composite scale. Cutoff scores vary each year and by school. Stuyvesant typically requires the highest score (historically around 560 or above), while other specialized schools may admit students with scores in the 480 to 530 range. Our diagnostic assessment helps set a realistic target score based on your child's starting point.
How many tutoring sessions does my child need?+
It depends on your child's baseline. After the diagnostic assessment, we recommend a session plan tailored to their needs. Most students benefit from 1 to 2 sessions per week over 4 to 6 months. Students starting with strong fundamentals may need fewer sessions, while those requiring more support in math or ELA may benefit from additional practice.
What does the SHSAT test look like?+
The SHSAT consists of 57 questions split into two sections: English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics. The ELA section includes revising/editing questions and reading comprehension passages. The Math section covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, probability, and statistics. Students have 180 minutes (3 hours) to complete the entire test with no scheduled break.
Can 9th graders take the SHSAT?+
Yes. Both 8th and 9th grade students can take the SHSAT. Ninth graders apply for a smaller number of available seats, so competition can be different. Our prep program is designed for both grade levels, and we adjust the curriculum based on each student's grade and target school.
Give Your Child the Best Shot at NYC's Top Schools
Start with a diagnostic assessment. We'll evaluate your child's current level, set a target score, and build a prep plan designed to get results.
Book a Diagnostic — $150928 Broadway, Flatiron · (212) 888-3836 · genius.prep@gmail.com