Frequently Asked Questions About SHSAT Computer-Adaptive Test Practice Tests
Other test prep companies have told me that making practice tests computer-adaptive is too difficult—are the practice tests that you offer actually computer-adaptive?
Yes — our practice tests are truly computer-adaptive. Many test prep companies avoid this step because it’s complex and expensive to build, but we believe it’s non-negotiable if the goal is elite admissions. The official exam your child will face is adaptive, so our practice tests must be as well.
Every question adjusts in real time to your child’s performance, recreating the exact dynamics of test day. That level of precision gives two critical advantages:
Accuracy — It’s the closest possible simulation of the actual test, ensuring your child is prepared for the pace, difficulty shifts, and decision-making required under pressure.
Clarity — Adaptive scoring provides a sharper view of strengths and weaknesses, allowing us to target only what matters most for raising scores.
For families aiming at the city’s most competitive schools, this level of preparation is essential. And for parents, it means peace of mind: when your child walks into the exam room, nothing will feel unfamiliar.
How many SHSAT practice tests do I get with my purchase?
Each practice test is sold individually. There are considerations made for multiple children and enterprise pricing.
Are the SHSAT practice tests timed like the real SHSAT?
Yes! All practice tests are timed (3 hours) to mirror the actual exam’s timing and format, giving you an authentic test-day experience.
How many questions are on the SHSAT practice test?
There are 114 questions per practice test.
What languages are available for reports?
Currently, reports are available in 230+ languages including the following:
English
Español (Spanish)
Chinese
Bangla (Bengali)
Russian
Urdu
Arabic
Haitian Creole
Korean
Can I take the SHSAT practice tests on my phone or tablet?
Absolutely. Our platform is fully mobile-friendly, so you can practice anytime, anywhere on any internet connected device.
Will I get explanations for the questions I miss on the SHSAT practice test?
Yes. After completing each test, per device/browser, you’ll receive instant scoring with detailed, step-by-step explanations for every question.
Do I need to print the SHSAT practice tests?
No printing is necessary. All tests are completed online, just like the real SHSAT.
How does the progress tracking work for the SHSAT practice tests?
Per device/browser, our system tracks your scores, strengths, and areas to improve over time, helping you focus your study efficiently.
Can multiple students use the same account for SHSAT practice tests?
Each account is designed for individual use. If you have multiple students, you’ll need to purchase separate access for each.
What is the refund policy for SHSAT practice tests?
Due to the digital nature of our product, all sales are final. Please contact support if you have any issues accessing your tests.
Will using these SHSAT practice tests guarantee my child’s acceptance to a selective enrollment school?
While our practice tests provide realistic preparation and help improve test-taking skills, we cannot guarantee any specific test scores or school admissions decisions.
Which selective enrollment schools does the SHSAT cover?
The SHSAT is used for admissions to the following schools in New York:
Bronx High School of Science.
Brooklyn Latin School.
Brooklyn Technical High School.
High School for Math, Science and Engineering at City College.
High School of American Studies at Lehman College.
Queens High School for Sciences at York College.
Staten Island Technical High School.
Stuyvesant High School.
What is the SHSAT?
The SHSAT isn’t just another test — it’s the key to New York City’s most competitive high schools. It measures reasoning, reading, and math — but what it really tests is composure under pressure. That’s why we built the SHSAT Simulator — so your child enters test day not as a beginner, but as someone already tested when it counts.
How hard is the SHSAT?
Hard enough that most students walk out unsure how they did. The difficulty isn’t just in the questions — it’s in the pacing, pressure, and adaptive format. Inside the Simulator, your child learns to stay composed under all three.
When is the SHSAT?
Every fall, New York City’s 8th graders face their moment — the SHSAT. The test dates shift yearly, but the stress never does. That’s why early preparation matters. Confidence isn’t built the week before; it’s built through simulation months in advance.
What is on the SHSAT?
Two sections. One goal. English Language Arts — reading, comprehension, logic. Math — algebra, geometry, data analysis. It’s not about memorization — it’s about precision. And precision grows inside the Simulator.
How long is the SHSAT?
180 minutes. That’s three hours of strategy, focus, and endurance. The Simulator trains your child’s pacing to match the real test — so every minute counts, not one is wasted.
What schools use the SHSAT?
Eight of NYC’s most competitive public schools — from Stuyvesant to Bronx Science — use the SHSAT for admission. Each score represents an opportunity. The Simulator ensures your child walks in ready to claim theirs.
How is the SHSAT scored?
Raw answers are scaled into a composite score out of 800+. But only the top percentile earns a seat. Inside the Simulator, every session gives predictive insight into your child’s projected score — long before test day.
How do you prepare for the SHSAT?
Books teach content. Tutors drill concepts. But only a simulator replicates the real environment — the timer, pressure, and adaptive logic. Preparation isn’t just study. It’s simulation.
Is the SHSAT multiple choice?
Yes — but strategy matters as much as accuracy. The Simulator trains both. Every question teaches your child how to think like a high scorer.
How many questions are on the SHSAT?
114 questions, divided between ELA and Math. The Simulator mirrors that exact balance — because practice should feel identical to the real exam.
How do I register for the SHSAT?
Registration happens through your child’s school counselor or MySchools portal. But readiness starts long before paperwork. That’s where the Simulator comes in — transforming nerves into readiness months ahead.
Who is eligible for the SHSAT?
NYC 8th and 9th graders — but only those ready to compete truly stand out. The Simulator ensures your child belongs in that group.
How is the SHSAT changing in 2026?
The 2026 SHSAT is moving toward adaptive testing — meaning each answer affects the next question. We built the SHSAT (CAT) Simulator for this exact reason — to train students in the same adaptive logic they’ll face on test day.
Can you retake the SHSAT?
Unfortunately, no. One day, one score, one chance. That’s why simulation is everything — no surprises, no regrets.
What’s a good SHSAT score?
Scores vary by school, but excellence begins near the top 5%. The Simulator doesn’t chase perfection — it builds precision. Every child leaves with data, direction, and confidence to compete at the highest level.
How do I help my child prepare for the SHSAT?
You can’t take the test for them — but you can give them the environment to master it. The SHSAT Simulator recreates real testing conditions, giving your child the tools to stay calm, confident, and in control. Preparation doesn’t start with a tutor. It starts with the right environment.
How can I reduce my child’s test anxiety?
Familiarity defeats fear. When a student has already “flown the plane,” test day no longer feels like takeoff — it feels like routine. That’s the difference between guessing and knowing.
What if my child doesn’t test well?
It’s not always about intelligence — it’s about exposure. The Simulator helps your child face pressure early and often, until it feels like second nature. Performance improves when nerves turn into focus.
Can you study for the SHSAT?
Yes — but studying alone isn’t enough. Students who only memorize struggle when pressure changes the pace. Simulation adds realism. And realism builds readiness.
What are the best SHSAT prep resources?
Most resources teach the what. We teach the how. Our Simulator mirrors the computer-adaptive format — the way your child will actually experience the SHSAT in 2026.
How much does SHSAT prep cost?
Traditional prep can run from $1,000–$5,000 or more. We are more than traditional. The real cost is wasting time on the wrong methods. The Simulator delivers real results — faster, smarter, and more aligned with the test itself.
Is the SHSAT worth it?
If your child aims for Stuyvesant, Bronx Science, or Brooklyn Tech — absolutely. The SHSAT opens doors that change academic paths and college outcomes. Preparation isn’t optional — it’s essential.
What happens if my child fails the SHSAT?
No student truly fails — they learn. The SHSAT is just one path among many, but preparation reveals strengths that carry beyond test day. The Simulator builds skill, not just scores.
What are the top SHSAT schools?
Stuyvesant. Bronx Science. Brooklyn Tech. Staten Island Tech. Each one demands excellence — not just knowledge. The Simulator helps students rise to that level, where readiness feels effortless.
How long should my child study for the SHSAT?
Ideally 6–12 months. Mastery doesn’t come from last-minute cramming — it comes from consistent simulation that builds muscle memory.
Can you guess on the SHSAT?
Yes — there’s no penalty for guessing. But the Simulator trains accuracy first, strategy second. Because great scores come from discipline, not luck.
What’s the passing score for SHSAT?
There’s no universal passing score — each school has its own cutoff. That’s why we use predictive analytics inside the Simulator, showing you where your child stands today — and what’s needed to reach target schools.
How do students get into Stuyvesant?
Through exceptional SHSAT performance. Seats are limited, but preparation creates the edge. The Simulator helps your child build composure, accuracy, and confidence worthy of Stuyvesant.
What’s the best way to simulate the SHSAT?
Inside the SHSAT Simulator — the only adaptive environment built to mirror 2026’s new CAT format. It’s not a workbook or quiz. It’s the cockpit — where your child learns to fly before test day.
What’s the hardest part of the SHSAT?
Endurance. Students hit mental fatigue before the finish line. Our Simulator trains focus for the full 180 minutes — because stamina separates good from great.
How early should my child start preparing for the SHSAT?
The best time is before anyone else does. Starting early transforms uncertainty into confidence — one simulation at a time. Because when test day comes, “early” looks a lot like “ready.”
Is the SHSAT adaptive like the SAT?
Starting in 2026 — yes. The new SHSAT (CAT) adjusts to your child’s performance in real time. The Simulator was built specifically for this — the same adaptive logic, the same challenge, no surprises.
What’s different about the 2026 SHSAT?
Everything that mattered still matters — but now, difficulty adapts. That means practice must adapt too. The Simulator mirrors this format exactly, preparing your child for what’s truly ahead.
How can I track my child’s SHSAT progress?
Data brings peace of mind. Our Oversight dashboard shows strengths, weaknesses, timing, and growth trends — all in one clear view. You’ll know exactly how your child is performing, not just hope.
How can I motivate my child to study for the SHSAT?
Replace fear with purpose. Inside the Simulator, every session feels like progress — visible, measurable, real. When students see improvement, motivation follows naturally.
Can you take the SHSAT online?
No — but you can train for it online. The SHSAT Simulator recreates the full digital testing experience so your child’s first time seeing the interface isn’t on test day.
How much time is given for each SHSAT section?
90 minutes per section. The Simulator times every session the same way — so your child’s pacing becomes second nature long before it matters.
What’s the best strategy for the SHSAT?
Stay composed, move efficiently, and trust preparation. The Simulator builds these instincts through repetition and realism. Strategy isn’t learned — it’s trained.
Are calculators allowed on the SHSAT?
No. That’s why the Simulator includes calculator-free math sessions — helping your child develop mental math strength under real conditions.
What kind of reading passages are on the SHSAT?
From fiction to scientific articles, the SHSAT tests comprehension and focus, not memorization. Our reading simulations expose students to the same passage types they’ll see on test day.
What math topics are on the SHSAT?
Algebra, geometry, number properties, and data analysis — all under time pressure. The Simulator trains accuracy across every topic, while revealing your child’s strengths in real time.
Can the SHSAT be taken twice?
No. There’s only one official shot per year — but unlimited practice opportunities inside the Simulator. That’s why every session counts.
What’s the best way to study for SHSAT math?
Consistent exposure to real test formats. Our math simulations match SHSAT logic, question style, and time pressure — all without a calculator. Smart preparation > scattered worksheets.
What’s the best way to study for SHSAT reading?
Practice reading like a test-taker, not a student. The Simulator trains comprehension under time limits — teaching your child how to read for structure, not story.
What’s the biggest mistake students make on the SHSAT?
Rushing. Most errors come from panic, not lack of knowledge. The Simulator teaches calm accuracy — because steady beats fast.
What are SHSAT cut-off scores?
Each specialized high school sets its own cutoff — and they shift yearly. That’s why our Simulator includes predictive scoring. You’ll always know where your child stands, long before official results.
How competitive is the SHSAT?
Over 30,000 students compete for a few thousand seats each year. It’s not about fear — it’s about focus. The Simulator helps your child stand out by mastering what most overlook: composure under pressure.
Is the SHSAT harder than the SAT?
Different goals — same pressure. The SHSAT measures raw problem-solving and reasoning at an early age. Our Simulator trains both — not to match the SAT, but to exceed its discipline.
Can tutoring replace SHSAT simulation?
No. Tutors teach content. Simulators build experience. Both have value — but only one mimics real conditions.
How long are SHSAT results valid?
One year — for that year’s admissions cycle. The advantage, however, lasts far longer when preparation shapes confidence.
How soon are SHSAT scores released?
Usually within a few months. But the real insight shouldn’t come in March — it should come now. Our Simulator’s predictive analytics show future outcomes today.
Is SHSAT prep necessary for top students?
Absolutely. Even gifted students need structure under time limits. The SHSAT rewards control, not just intelligence. Simulation ensures both.
Can my child get into a specialized high school without prep?
Possible — but rare. The test is designed to separate natural ability and preparation. The Simulator ensures your child has both.
What’s the difference between SHSAT and state tests?
State tests measure standards. The SHSAT measures competition. That’s why simulation — not curriculum review — makes the difference.
Are there writing sections on the SHSAT?
No essays — but deep reading and logical reasoning instead. The Simulator trains comprehension and inference, where the real points are earned.
What materials should my child use for SHSAT prep?
Choose realism over repetition. Our Simulator combines content, analytics, and true test pacing — everything else is practice; this is preparation.
How does the SHSAT Simulator differ from practice books?
Books give answers. We give awareness. The Simulator reacts to your child’s every move, adapting just like the real exam — and revealing exactly where growth is needed.
What’s included in the SHSAT Simulator?
A complete adaptive testing environment: Predictive scoring - Parent oversight - Real-time analytics - Authentic test interface - Everything your child will face — minus the nerves.
How do I know if my child is improving?
Progress should be visible, not guessed. Our Oversight reports show performance trends over time, by subject and skill. You’ll see growth, not just hope for it.
How do I make SHSAT prep less stressful for my child?
Remove uncertainty. The Simulator replaces fear with familiarity, giving your child complete control over what to expect. When they’ve already “flown” the test, anxiety fades.
What makes SHSAT prep different from other exams?
The SHSAT isn’t just about knowledge — it’s endurance, logic, and precision under pressure. That’s why our Simulator goes beyond drills. It builds habits that hold when it matters most.
What separates high scorers from everyone else?
Calm. High scorers don’t rush — they regulate. Inside the Simulator, your child learns how to think clearly under the same conditions that make others panic.
How can I tell if my child is ready for the SHSAT?
You shouldn’t have to guess. Our readiness reports analyze timing, accuracy, and consistency to reveal readiness with certainty. No more wondering — just knowing.
How can I improve my child’s SHSAT score?
Scores rise when strategy improves — not just study time. The Simulator targets weak areas automatically, transforming effort into results.
Can the SHSAT be taken outside NYC?
No — but your preparation doesn’t have to stay local. Families everywhere use the SHSAT Simulator to train for the NYC exam from home.
How can I make sure my child doesn’t burn out?
Consistency beats intensity. The Simulator’s adaptive pacing keeps prep challenging but sustainable — turning study into structure, not stress.
Is the SHSAT the only way into specialized schools?
Yes — it’s the gatekeeper for eight of NYC’s elite public schools. That’s why authentic preparation matters more than ever.
What’s the best mindset for SHSAT success?
Calm, curious, and confident. The Simulator trains all three — so your child walks in steady, not scared.
Should I hire a tutor and use the SHSAT Simulator?
If you can — yes. Tutors explain. The Simulator trains. Together, they build understanding and execution.
How often should my child practice SHSAT questions?
Consistency wins. Three focused simulations per week outperform daily unfocused study. Quality, not quantity, moves the score.
What happens after the SHSAT?
Results arrive in spring — but confidence lasts much longer. The Simulator gives your child lifelong test-taking composure, not just a single score.
How do specialized high schools rank applicants?
By score — nothing else. That’s why every point matters. Inside the Simulator, your child learns to earn each one deliberately.
What should my child do the week before the SHSAT?
No cramming. Just simulation. By that point, it’s about rhythm and confidence, not content. The Simulator ensures both are steady.
How should my child handle mistakes during prep?
Mistakes are the map. Each wrong answer inside the Simulator points exactly where growth should happen next.
What’s the ultimate goal of SHSAT preparation?
Not just a high score — but readiness. The kind of quiet confidence that only comes from already having faced what others fear. That’s the Simulator difference.