HSAT CHICAGO: A Student's Guide to the Chicago HSAT 🚀

The Chicago High School Admissions Test (HSAT) is an important hurdle for any eighth-grade student aiming for a Selective Enrollment High School. It's not just another test; it's a key part of your application that can open the door to some of the best high schools in the city.

This post will serve as your comprehensive guide, covering what you need to know about the test, why it's so important, and how to create a winning strategy.

The HSAT's Role in High School Admissions

The HSAT is a core component of the GoCPS application, which is the platform used for all high school admissions in Chicago. The score from this single exam accounts for 50% of your total admission score for Selective Enrollment schools. The remaining 50% comes from your seventh-grade grades. This means your performance on the HSAT is just as crucial as your grades.

HSAT Test Format: What to Expect

The HSAT is a computer-based, timed test that lasts for about one hour. It's divided into two key sections:

  • Reading: This 30-minute section challenges your ability to read and understand complex passages. You'll encounter both fiction and non-fiction texts and be asked questions about the main idea, vocabulary, and inferences.

  • Math: The 30-minute math section assesses your problem-solving skills. You'll need to work through problems in areas like algebra, geometry, and data analysis. No calculator is allowed on this part of the test.

A crucial detail: there is no penalty for incorrect answers. This means you should answer every single question, even if you have to guess.

5 Essential Tips for HSAT Success 🧠

Since the HSAT is a one-and-done exam, your preparation needs to be strategic and thorough. Follow these five tips to maximize your score.

  1. Start Early: Don't wait until the last minute. The test is typically held in the fall of your eighth-grade year, so starting your prep over the summer is an excellent way to get ahead. A little bit of consistent practice over a long period is much more effective than cramming.

  2. Focus on Foundational Skills: The HSAT is an achievement test, so it's not about learning new content. Instead, focus on mastering the concepts you've already learned. Review seventh-grade math, and practice reading a variety of challenging texts to improve your comprehension.

  3. Use Realistic Practice Tests: The best way to prepare is to take full-length practice tests that simulate the real exam. This helps you get used to the format, the timing, and the types of questions you'll face.

  4. Review Your Mistakes: After each practice test, go back and analyze every question you got wrong. Understanding the why behind your mistakes is the most important part of the learning process.

  5. Manage Your Time Effectively: The test is fast-paced. Practice working through sections with a timer so you can build the speed and confidence you need to answer every question.

Ready to Get Started?

A practice test is your best tool for HSAT preparation. It's the only way to get a true feel for the test and build the skills you need for success.

Visit cpshsat.com to get access to a full-length, timed practice test that's designed to prepare you for the Chicago HSAT. Start preparing for your future today!