SHSAT registration closes Friday, October 30, 2026
New York City Public Schools confirms that Friday, October 30, 2026 is the deadline to register for the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT) for students seeking admission in fall 2027. Registration is separate from your regular high school application. If you plan to take the SHSAT, make sure you complete the SHSAT registration in MySchools by the deadline.
Register for the SHSAT through MySchools
Who can register?
Current New York City residents who are in eighth grade or attending ninth grade for the first time can register. The SHSAT is required for admission to the eight testing Specialized High Schools. LaGuardia High School uses auditions instead of the SHSAT.
How to register
- Sign in to your family account at MySchools.
- On the dashboard, begin registration for Specialized High Schools.
- Follow the prompts, rank your preferred testing Specialized High Schools, and indicate if you cannot test on a Saturday or Sunday.
- Confirm that your registration is complete. If you need assistance, contact your school counselor.
See the official MySchools SHSAT registration instructions.
When is the test?
Your assigned date and location will appear on your test ticket. NYC Public Schools currently lists these dates:
- November 18, 2026: eighth graders attending NYC public middle schools that end in eighth grade, testing at their current schools.
- November 14 or 15, 2026: eighth graders at 6–12, K–12, charter, private, parochial or independent schools, and homeschooled students, at central testing sites.
- November 21, 2026: registered ninth graders, at central testing sites. Alternate arrangements are available for students unable to test on Saturday.
Check the official Specialized High Schools admissions page for updates.
What happens after registration?
MySchools says test tickets become available approximately two weeks after the registration deadline. Your ticket specifies the test date, time, location and any approved accommodations. You can print it from MySchools or ask your school counselor for a printed copy. Bring the printed ticket on test day. Contact your counselor promptly if the assigned date conflicts with another obligation.
Prepare for the digital SHSAT
The fall 2026 SHSAT is computer-adaptive, with 50 ELA questions and 50 math questions and a standard testing time of 180 minutes. The test adjusts question difficulty based on responses. Familiarize yourself with its digital interface and navigation rules, which differ from traditional paper exams.
NYC Public Schools offers an official SHSAT test overview with a guide, a Student Readiness Tool and four online practice tests. Use these free official resources alongside any additional practice you choose.
Useful official links
- MySchools: Register for SHSAT
- MySchools step-by-step registration guide
- NYCPS Specialized High Schools admissions and testing dates
- NYCPS SHSAT overview and free digital preparation resources
- NYCPS high school admissions timeline
Questions about registration or accommodations? Contact your school counselor or NYC Public Schools at 718-935-2009. SHS Prep is an independent preparation platform and is not affiliated with NYC Public Schools.
