Applying to High School
Key Dates for Fall 2026 High School Admissions
  • Tuesday, October 7, 2025: High School Application, LaGuardia Application, and Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT) Registration Opens
  • Friday, October 31, 2025: SHSAT Registration Closes
  • Wednesday, December 3, 2025: High School and LaGuardia Applications Close
  • Thursday, March 5, 2026: High School Offer Release
Visti the NYC DOE High School page for more information
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​Navigating High School Admissions can feel overwhelming. It is our objective to provide families with the best resources available.  Below please find information and steps you can take throughout 7th and 8th grade to best prepare you, and your child for this endeavor. In addition, there will be an information session in 7th grade to support and guide all families through the admissions process.

​Resources for applying to High School
Please note: Dates and times for High School admissions events are subject to change. Be sure to check with the individual schools to confirm dates and times.
7th Grade

Students may want to begin thinking about the high school they would like to attend. Some questions students should consider:
  • Am I interested in the school's focus area?
  • Do I want to attend a large or small school?
  • What are the available extra curricular activities? 
  • What is the location of school and commute time?

Students interested in Specialized High Schools should start preparing for the exam as early as possible. Read through the Specialized Schools Handbook, and try one of the practice tests included.  Kaplan  offers a test prep program held on site. Sign up information can be found here.
Students interested in Arts or Performing Arts schools will want to start preparing their portfolios and audition material. Each school’s Directory page or website will give you the details of their portfolio/audition requirements. 




8th Grade
​At the end of 7th grade, all students will receive a hard copy of the High School Directory. Please review the book over the summer and make a list of potential high schools. This should be completed before 8th grade begins in September.
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