- 21 Dec, 2024
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SHSAT Preparatory Guide
The Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT) is your gateway to some of the most competitive and prestigious high schools in New York City. Success on this exam requires not just academic knowledge but also strategic preparation and time management.
This guide has been meticulously crafted to help you navigate every aspect of SHSAT preparation. Whether you’re sharpening your skills in English Language Arts (ELA) or mastering complex mathematical concepts, this resource is designed to boost your confidence and performance.
Through structured study plans, proven strategies, and carefully selected practice materials, this guide aims to make your preparation journey as efficient and effective as possible.
Let’s embark on this journey together. Your success starts here!
What is SHSAT?
The Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT) is an entrance exam for admission to New York City’s specialized high schools. The exam tests English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics. Understanding the structure, content, and timing is key to excelling.
Format:
- English Language Arts (ELA): Revising/Editing and Reading Comprehension
- Mathematics: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Word Problems
- Duration: 3 hours (no breaks)
2. Why should I take the SHSAT?
The SHSAT is the sole criterion for admission to the following schools to attend high school: Brooklyn Latin, Bronx Science, Stuyvesant, Brooklyn Tech, City College, Lehman college, Staten Island Tech, York College. This means that your grades, extracurricular activities and so on do not play a role in the selection process.
3. When Does It Happen?
The SHSAT (Specialized High Schools Admissions Test) typically occurs in late October through early November each year. Here’s a general breakdown of the timeline:
-Registration Period:
Opens in early September and closes in early October.
-Testing Dates:
8th Graders: Usually scheduled for late October and early November on weekends.
9th Graders: Typically in mid to late November.
Some students may also take the test on weekdays if their school participates in in-school testing.
4. Who is Eligible to Take the SHSAT?
-Grade Level
- 8th Graders: Students currently enrolled in 8th grade who wish to apply for admission to NYC’s specialized high schools for the following school year.
- 9th Graders: Students currently enrolled in 9th grade can take the SHSAT to apply for a small number of seats available in 10th grade at specialized high schools.
-Residency
- Students must be New York City residents. Proof of residency may be required during the application process.
5. Is the SHSAT Online or Offline?
The SHSAT is an offline, paper-based exam. Students complete the test using a physical test booklet and bubble sheet to mark their answers. Here are a few details about the format:
– Testing Materials Provided:
- Test booklet containing questions for both the ELA and Math sections.
- Answer sheet (bubble sheet) for marking responses.
- Scrap paper or extra space in the test booklet for calculations or notes
6. SHSAT Structure Overview
On the SHSAT, you’ll see 57 English language arts and 57 math questions on the test. The English language arts and math sections are equally weighted.
English Language Arts (ELA)
– Format
- It contains 57 questions
- Accounts for one – half of your total points
- Suggested time for the section is 90 minutes
- All 57 questions are multiple – choice questions
– Skills tested
- Revising/Editing: Identify grammar errors, improve sentence structure, and fix punctuation errors.
Number of questions: 9 – 19
- Reading Comprehension: Read passages (literary, informational, and poetry) and answer multiple-choice questions about themes, inferences, and main ideas.
Number of questions: 38 – 48
Mathematics
– Format
- It contains 57 questions
- Accounts for one – half of your total points
- Suggested time for the section is 90 minutes
– Skills tested
- Arithmetic: Fractions, decimals, percentages, order of operations.
- Algebra: Linear equations, inequalities, and solving for variables.
- Geometry: Area, perimeter, volume, angles, and basic theorems.
- Word Problems: Multi-step problems involving logical reasoning.
Number of questions: Grid-in questions: 5
Multiple-choice questions: 52
7. Scoring
The highest possible composite score varies from year to year, but it is usually around 700.
8. Key Strategies
-ELA Strategies:
- Revising/Editing:
- Read sentences carefully to identify grammar and punctuation errors.
- Focus on sentence clarity and conciseness.
- Reading Comprehension:
- Skim the passage to get the main idea.
- Underline keywords while reading.
- Answer easy questions first and return to difficult ones.
– Math Strategies:
- Memorize key formulas (area, perimeter, Pythagorean theorem, etc.).
- Use the process of elimination for multiple-choice questions.
- Show your work to avoid careless errors.
- Manage time by solving easier questions first, then tackling challenging problems.
9. Time Management:
- You’ll have 180 minutes to complete the entire test.
- Spend approximately 90 minutes on each section.
- You do not need to answer the question in order.
- If stuck, move on and return to the question later.
- You can move between sections
- Use all remaining time to review answers.
10. Practice Resources
– Official SHSAT Handbook (free online resource from NYC DOE)
– Test Prep Books:
- Barron’s SHSAT
- Kaplan SHSAT Prep
– Online Practice Tests:
- Khan Academy (for math concepts)
- Varsity Tutors and Test Prep websites
– Mobile Apps:
- SHSAT Practice & Prep
- Quizlet for vocabulary practice
11. Tips for Exam Day
- Get 8-9 hours of sleep the night before.
- Eat a healthy breakfast to fuel your brain.
- Bring required items: pencils, erasers, a sharpener, and a water bottle.
- Stay calm, and focus on one question at a time.
- Double-check your answers if time allows.
12. Motivational Note
Preparing for the SHSAT takes hard work, dedication, and consistent practice. Remember, every day of preparation brings you closer to your goal. Believe in yourself, stay positive, and give your best effort on test day. You’ve got this!
Good luck!