NYC
SHSAT

Specialized High Schools Admissions Test

The SHSAT (Specialized High Schools Admissions Test) is the entrance exam used for admission to New York City’s Specialized High Schools, including schools such as Stuyvesant, Bronx Science, and Brooklyn Tech. It is the sole admissions criterion for these schools, meaning offers are based entirely on a student’s SHSAT score. Students typically take the SHSAT in 8th grade for 9th-grade entry, with an additional opportunity in 9th grade for limited 10th-grade seats.

What Makes Kent Prep Different

For families who understand the stakes of the SHSAT, true preparation goes beyond tips and shortcuts. Because admission to NYC Specialized High Schools is determined entirely by score, success requires deep mastery of reading, mathematics, and analytical reasoning. Kent Prep’s SHSAT program, historically one of our most successful and established offerings, is led by specialists who focus on building these core academic foundations so students can handle the full range of question types with precision and confidence.

We believe the strongest outcomes come from starting early, often in 6th or 7th grade, allowing students the time to develop skills, accuracy, and stamina at the level this exam demands. This mastery-driven approach enables students to execute consistently under pressure, refine strategy intelligently, and compete at the highest level on one of New York City’s most selective admissions exams.

Get Started

To get started, contact info@kentprep.nyc to schedule an appointment with us at our Helmsley Building office. Please include “SHSAT Prep” in the subject line. If you would like a phone consultation, simply include your phone number and a Kent Prep counselor will follow up.

High School Consultation

New York City offers one of the most competitive and diverse public high school systems in the country, including Specialized High Schools and a wide range of high-performing academic programs. Identifying the right fit, and positioning a student strategically, often requires planning that begins as early as 6th or 7th grade.

For families seeking a deeper partnership and highly personalized guidance, Kent Prep offers a High School Admissions Consultation Package designed for individualized planning and thoughtful, long-term support. This tailored approach allows us to work closely with families, understand each student’s strengths and goals, and provide clear direction through every step of the high school admissions journey.