8th Grade Families

There are three pathways to apply for New York City high schools:

• Submit a high school application (due December 4).

  • You can apply to as many programs as you’re interested in; there is no limit! 

  • Some programs require submissions of additional materials to be considered for admissions. Learn more about these programs: schools.nyc.gov/AssessmentHS and schools.nyc.gov/HSAuditions.

• Apply to Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts (03M485) (optional – due December 4).

  • This is a specialized high school for students interested in visual and performing arts. Auditions for this school will be conducted virtually. To learn more about audition requirements, visit schools.nyc.gov/HSAuditions.

• Register for the SHSAT (optional – due October 30).

  • There are eight testing specialized high schools whose admissions are governed by state law. Students who are interested in these schools must take the SHSAT. 

  • The SHSAT will be a Computer Adaptive Test. SHSAT testing will take place between November and December. Test dates, locations, and SHSAT policies (including the student handbook) can be found at schools.nyc.gov/SHS.

What can you do now?

• Start exploring your high school options using our online, high school directory: MySchools.nyc. You will also use MySchools to submit your high school application when the process opens.

• Plan to attend one of our upcoming virtual information sessions. We will email you dates and instructions on how to join. You can also find this information on our website, schools.nyc.gov/HS.

• Read more about each pathway on our websites: schools.nyc.gov/HS and schools.nyc.gov/SHS.

• Review SHSAT policies at schools.nyc.gov/SHS and take practice SHSAT exams.