High School Admissions

 
Students who plan to apply to independent or private high schools begin preparing for the required high school admissions tests at the end of their seventh grade year by polishing foundational skills and taking the STS’ High School Placement Test (HSPT) as a baseline.
 
Starting in the fall of their eighth grade year, students take a High School Preparatory  class twice a week to prepare them for these high school admissions process and entrance tests. In the Winter Trimester, eighth grade students take the High School Placement Test (HSPT) and/or the Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT).
 
Students also begin high shadow visit days where they go for a full day to visit their top high school choices to get a feel for the school environment and academic setting. Here is the High School Interest Chart to help students keep track of the most important information as they begin their search for their right fit school.
 
 
Suggested Agenda for Eighth Grade Year:
  1. Learn about high school options and determine what type of school would be a "best fit" for your child.
  2. Review High School Open House dates and other High School Admissions Fairs
  3. Review Application Process and Deadlines.
  4. Register for SSAT Test.
  5. Register for HSPT Workshop.
  6. Register for HSPT Test.
  7. Register for Student Visit Days at all interested high schools.
  8. Narrow down High School Log to top schools of choice and include a back-up choice.
  9. Apply to High School choices.

High School Placement Testing Options

Seventh graders have one practice test opportunity. Eighth graders have three different test options for high school admissions.
 
Seventh Grade
  • Practice High School Placement Test (PHSPT)
Eighth Grade
  • High School Placement Test (HSPT)
  • Secondary School Admissions Test (SSAT)
  • Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE)
 
Click on the links below to learn more about each test: