Manhattan · Specialized High School
High School for Mathematics, Science and Engineering at City College
A very small school on the City College campus where students take college courses early. German language program and strong engineering pathways.
2025 SHSAT cutoff
526
Moves every year with the applicant pool
Seats per year
~130
Offers go strictly by SHSAT score
Known for
- City College campus
- College courses in high school
- Small cohort
Want the full picture? What score you need for HSMSE: the deep dive and our cutoff analysis for every school.
Frequently asked questions
What SHSAT score do you need for HSMSE?
In the 2025 admissions cycle, HSMSE's cutoff was 526 on the composite scale. Cutoffs move every year with the applicant pool, so treat that as a target range, not a guarantee: the safest plan is to score as high as you can.
How many students does HSMSE admit?
HSMSE offers roughly 130 seats per year. Offers go to the highest SHSAT scorers who ranked the school, in score order.
Is the 2026 SHSAT different?
Yes. Starting in fall 2026 the SHSAT is computer-based and adaptive, with 50 ELA and 50 Math questions in 180 minutes. The score scale and the admissions process are unchanged.
Aiming for HSMSE?
Take the free 10-question diagnostic and see where you stand on the 2026 format, then build the score with topic practice, timed sections, and full mocks.
Take the free diagnostic