Blog by Ivy Tutors Network

The High School for Math, Science and Engineering is one of NYC’s 9 specialized high schools. HSMSE provides students with a first class education in the STEM fields, in addition to a rigorous and well rounded general academic program. In this article, we’ll tell you more about what makes HSMSE special, and what you need to know to get the chance to attend…

The SHSAT is open to all current eight grade or first-time ninth grade students who live in New York City. This 3-hour test is the only criterion for gaining entry into one of the nine specialized public schools, which are known for their academic rigor, top teachers, great courses offerings, and exciting extra-curricular opportunities. SHSAT registration opens up in the Fall of each year. Here’s what you need to know to get the chance to attend one of these amazing public high schools!

Learn how to approach UChicago’s 2026-27 Extended Essay and Why UChicago essay, with tips for choosing topics and showing how you think.

Yale’s 2026–27 application asks students to reveal themselves through five distinct pieces: an academic response, three ultra-short Short Takes, and a 400-word essay. Learn how to approach each prompt, avoid repetition, show genuine personality, and make the entire supplement feel like one cohesive portrait of your mind.

The SHSAT went digital in 2025 and adaptive in 2026. Here’s everything you need to know about the test that gets you into a specialized high school in New York City.

SHSAT cutoff scores change every year and relying on last year’s number isn’t enough. Explore the official 2026 SHSAT cutoffs for NYC’s specialized high schools, understand how admissions really work, and learn why aiming 30–60 points above the cutoff is the smartest strategy for securing a spot.

Learn the truth about SAT prep from an SAT expert. Discover what really drives SAT score improvement, how tutoring helps, common myths about accommodations, and why realistic expectations matter.

A research project only helps if it demonstrates genuine curiosity and student ownership. Here's what admissions officers actually value, and what they don't.

The SHSAT is becoming computer-adaptive in 2026. Learn how the new format works, how scoring may change, and the best strategies students can use to prepare for success on test day.

Thousands of NYC families pay for SHSAT tutoring without realizing the city offers free preparation through the DREAM Program. This guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, what the schedule looks like, and whether the program is worth it for students aiming for Specialized High Schools like Stuyvesant, Bronx Science, and Brooklyn Tech.

The SHSAT Discovery Program gives eligible students who score just below the SHSAT cutoff a second pathway into NYC's specialized high schools. Learn who qualifies, how the invitation process works, what happens during the summer program, and whether Discovery is the right opportunity for your child.

Planning college visits? Learn how to make the most of campus tours with expert tips on student shadowing, attending classes, virtual visits, and finding the right college fit for your future.