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SHSAT Tutoring in NYC: In-Person and Online

Clocking in at 3 hours with 114 Math and English questions to complete, the SHSAT is probably the longest exam an eighth grader has ever taken. Beginning in 2025, the SHSAT is a digital exam. And because 30,000 kids take the test every year, but only about 6,000 can be accepted to one of New York City's 9 specialized high schools, the test is difficult by design.

Starting with a diagnostic test, we develop a personalized plan for each student that includes test taking strategies, learning or refreshing subject matter, and a study plan for when the tutor is not with the student. For many young test-takers, the most difficult components of the exam are the reading comprehension and grammar questions of the English section and the time-crunch on the Math section, best tackled through strategy and practice problems drills.

From learning style, to skillset, to focus and attention, our tutors are often expert test-takers themselves, and will help your child fill in the knowledge gaps and build the confidence needed to overcome the testing anxiety that often is associated with the SHSAT. At IVY, we believe every child is unique and benefits from being matched with the right tutor who will connect with the student and help open new doors!

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Why the SHSAT Matters

The SHSAT is the admissions test for entry to NYC’s Specialized High Schools, such as Stuyvesant, Bronx Science, and Brooklyn Tech. These schools are known for their rigorous academics, excellent faculty, and driven student bodies.They’re also completely free to attend, which makes them highly sought-after by NYC families.

Approximately 30,000 NYC students take the SHSAT every year, but ONLY about 6,000 receive an offer from a specialized high school. With an 18% acceptance rate, the SHSAT is likely one of the most competitive entrance exams some students will take in their lifetime. The SHSAT is also the sole criterion for entry to the specialized high schools. Grades, attendance, and recommendation are not considered at all - just the SHSAT score.

What Makes IVY Different?

Ivy Tutors Network has been helping students study for the SHSAT for over 20 years.

  • 84% of our SHSAT students report an offer from a specialized high school in an average year (compared to the general 18% rate)!
  • The acceptance rate goes up even more the earlier students begin prep with us.
  • Our approach is completely data-driven, relying on mock testing with real SHSAT materials.
  • Our expert SHSAT tutors, many of whom attended a specialized high school themselves, know all the best tricks and strategies for performing well on this difficult exam.

When to Start Studying for the SHSAT?

Students should start studying for the SHSAT in the second semester of 7th grade. They should begin by taking a diagnostic test (in December or January) to determine their level and what form of preparation they would most benefit from.

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Find the Best SHSAT Tutors in NYC

Eury G.

Eury German is an educator and multidisciplinary artist living in NYC. He graduated with honors from Wesleyan University, where he received his B.A in Biology and Dance in 2016 and furthered his dance education at N...

Algebra
Algebra 2
AP Biology

Noga B.

Noga is a graduate student specializing in education psychology. She graduated from St. John's University summa cum laude with a BA in neuroscience and psychology in January 2019. Noga is very passionate about teach...

Algebra
AP Psychology
Elementary Math

Syd B.

Syd graduated from Yale University summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa with distinction in their major of Ethics, Politics, and Economics, and an Advanced Spanish Language Certificate in May of 2023. While at Yale, S...

Algebra
Algebra 2
AP Biology

Emma S.

A graduate of Stuyvesant High School and New York University, Emma brings eight years of academic tutoring experience across a wide range of subjects, including Mathematics, English, AP Psychology, and standardized ...

Algebra
Elementary Math
English
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SHSAT Prep Classes in NYC

Work with an experienced SHSAT teacher to master math, grammar, and critical reading. By the end of the course, students are ready to take a full-length practice SHSAT, and will be well on their way to getting into one of NYC's Specialized High Schools!

Reviews of Our SHSAT Tutors in NYC

Henry is thoroughly enjoying working with Jordan. Up until now, Henry has not gotten any one-on-one teaching of coding so he's thrilled to work this way with Jordan. Henry has said it's super interesting, fun and he loves it.
Kathryn H.
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Related SHSAT Blog Posts

How to Get into The Bronx High School of Science
By Lisa Speransky
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Bronx Science is one of the 8 specialized high schools of New York City for which you have to take the SHSAT (specialized high school admissions test). Bronx Science has produced eight Nobel Prize-winning alumni, more than any other secondary school in the country. Here's what you need to know about the admissions process...
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The High School for Math, Science and Engineering is one of NYC’s 9 specialized high schools. Public and completely free to attend, HSMSE provides students with a first class education in the STEM fields, in addition to a rigorous and well rounded general academic program. The faculty are famous for their quality and dedication to teaching, and the student body (approximately 500) is one of the most diverse in the city, representing all ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. 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…
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The High School of American Studies (HSAS), founded in 2002, is one of the newer specialized high schools, all of which require the SHSAT (Specialized High School Admissions Test) for admission. HSAS has a special emphasis on history, and with only 400 students, is also smaller than most of the specialized high schools. HSAS provides an amazing opportunity for students to attend a small, completely free high school with a unique curriculum focus. Here’s what you need to know to apply!
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