Administered to eighth- and ninth-grade students, the Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT) forms part of the application process for specialized high schools in New York City. Schools such as Stuyvesant High School, Brooklyn Technical High School and the High School for American Studies require this exam as part of the admissions process. The SHSAT contains two multiple-choice sections, one for reading comprehension and verbal reasoning and one for math. The math test contains basic arithmetic, geometry, algebra, probability and statistics. If you are taking the test as a ninth-grader, you will also have trigonometry questions. Practicing for this test can help you boost your scores and improve your chances of being accepted to one of these competitive high schools.
Instructions
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1
Take the practice tests provided by the City of New York's Department of Education. The Specialized High School handbook contains two practice tests, answers to these tests, explanations of the answers and techniques for improving your performance. This valuable resource is free.
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2
Enroll in an SHSAT preparation course. Several reputable testing companies offer intensive preparation courses, typically in July. These courses cover tips and techniques and include several practice tests.
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3
Purchase an SHSAT preparation book. Many New York City bookstores carry these preparation books. These books explain the material covered on the test, give practice questions and explain the answers. They also contain numerous practice tests.