The SHSAT, administered by the New York City Department of Education, is only available to New York City residents in the eighth grade applying to Specialized High Schools.
Ninth grade students may also choose to take the 9th grade version of the SHSAT for a limited number of seats that may be available at the Specialized High Schools. The SHSAT is the only criterion for admissions to eight of the nine New York City Specialized High Schools. The only exception is the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, which requires an audition or portfolio for admission. The SHSAT has recently changed its format and now contains an English Language Arts (ELA) (previously verbal) and Math section. The exam is three hours, with a suggested time of 90 minutes per section.
The SHSAT is a difficult exam, testing children for admittance to specialized schools. We recommend students complete a practice exam so we can assess the readiness of the child and create an appropriate timeline for preparation.
