The SHSAT, or the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test, is administered by the New York City Board of Education and is the only criterion for admissions to eight of the nine New York City specialized high schools. When taking the test, you will have 3 hours to complete one math and one ELA section. Though you can spend the time you are given in any way you choose, I recommend that you use about half the time for each section.

The maximum score you can get on the SHSAT is 800. Both the math and ELA sections are worth the same amount, and you will not be penalized for getting an answer wrong. While there are some experimental questions thrown into the test, they do not count toward or against your composite score.

You will be asked what your first-choice, second-choice, and third-choice schools are. Starting with the highest scorers, students are admitted to their top-choice school until seats are filled. If, based on your score, you do not get into your first-choice school before all the spots are taken, you will be admitted to your second-choice school, provided there are still spots available.

Whether you're just starting out or you've been preparing for a while, I can help you raise your scores significantly. Together we will boost your verbal reasoning skills, tackle core math concepts, enhance your reading comprehension abilities, and increase your vocabulary.

The work we do together during our lessons is only part of the process.  To ensure that you get the best preparation possible, I will have you apply the knowledge you've learned to homework, drills, and full-length practice tests.

The SHSAT is a very predictable test, so by becoming familiar with the ins and outs of the test itself, we can ensure that you feel confident on the day of the exam. The less surprises you encounter, the less anxiety you'll feel and the better you'll do.

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