Question 1

What is the SHSAT?

Accepted Answer

The SHSAT (Specialized High Schools Admissions Test) is a 3-hour exam used to determine admission to 8 specialized high schools in New York City, including Stuyvesant, Brooklyn Tech, and Bronx Science. It is open to current 8th graders and first-time 9th graders in NYC public schools.

Question 2

Is there a free SHSAT practice test?

Accepted Answer

Yes. SHSATlab offers a free, full-length SHSAT diagnostic test covering all 33 official SHSAT topics across ELA and Math. After completing it, students receive a scaled score estimate, a topic-by-topic breakdown, and a personalized AI study plan.

Question 3

What score do I need to get into Stuyvesant High School?

Accepted Answer

Stuyvesant High School typically requires a scaled SHSAT score of around 550–560, though cutoff scores vary each year. Brooklyn Tech and Bronx Science have lower cutoffs, typically around 468–490. SHSATlab tracks cutoff scores for all 8 specialized high schools.

Question 4

When should my child start SHSAT prep?

Accepted Answer

Most SHSAT coaches recommend starting prep in 7th grade or early 8th grade — ideally 6–12 months before the test. The SHSAT is typically given in October–November of 8th grade, so starting by January of 7th grade gives the most preparation time.

Question 5

How does SHSATlab's AI study plan work?

Accepted Answer

After your child takes the free SHSAT diagnostic test, SHSATlab's AI analyzes results across all 33 SHSAT topics, identifies the weakest areas, and generates a personalized week-by-week study plan tailored to their schedule, target school, and current skill level.