When Should My Child Start Preparing for the SHSAT?

If you’re a NYC parent thinking about specialized high schools, you’ve probably wondered:

“When should my child start preparing for the SHSAT?”

Some parents worry they are starting too late.

Others worry about starting too soon.

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best time to start depends on your child’s readiness, not a sense of panic.

Let’s break this down clearly.

First: What the SHSAT Actually Requires

The SHSAT is not simply a “harder state test.”

It measures:

• Mastery of 7th-grade math standards
• Strong reading comprehension at higher Lexile levels
• Multi-step problem solving
• Academic stamina over a 3-hour exam
• Precision under time pressure

Even students with strong grades can find the SHSAT’s format and timing unexpectedly challenging.

That’s totally normal.

Every year, thousands of NYC students take the exam and compete for limited seats at top schools like Stuyvesant, Brooklyn Tech, Bronx Science, and Staten Island Tech.

Preparing for the SHSAT isn’t a race. It’s about building skills at the right pace, when your child is ready.

 

So… When Should Students Start?

Here is a general guideline I share with families:

Strong 6th Grade Students: Focus on Foundations

In 6th grade, preparation should not look like heavy SHSAT test prep.

At this stage, the priority is ensuring that foundational skills are strong.

This includes:

• Solid mastery of core math standards
• Strong reading comprehension
• Grammar and written language accuracy
• Multi-step reasoning
• Academic stamina

If there are gaps in these areas, the most productive next step is not to advance to advanced SHSAT drills — it is to strengthen the foundation first.

For some students, a foundational academic readiness evaluation can help identify whether math, reading, or grammar skills need reinforcement before structured SHSAT preparation begins.

In 6th grade, the focus should be on building skills—not creating stress.

 

Most Students: Early to Mid 7th Grade

For many NYC students, early 7th grade is ideal.

By this time:

• Core math standards are more secure
• Reading comprehension skills are more developed
• Students can handle structured preparation

This allows for:

• Skill strengthening
• Strategy development
• Timed practice
• Gradual stamina building

Rushing in 6th grade without foundational readiness can create stress and burnout. Waiting until late summer of 8th grade can create unnecessary pressure.

Finding the right balance makes the process smoother for everyone.

 

Starting Late (Summer Before 8th Grade)

Can students start in the summer before 8th grade?

Yes.

Is it more intense?

Also yes.

At that point, preparation becomes:

• Diagnostic-driven
• Focused on closing gaps quickly
• Heavily structured
• Time-sensitive

It’s definitely possible, but students will need to be consistent and committed.

Students who begin later benefit most from a clear and structured plan.

 

Signs Your Child Is Ready to Begin

Instead of focusing only on grade level, ask:

• Can my child sustain focus for extended periods?
• Are 7th-grade math skills secure?
• Does my child handle multi-step problems confidently?
• Is reading stamina strong?
• Does my child genuinely want to attend a specialized high school?

A child’s motivation makes a real difference.

The SHSAT is not just about ability. It is about resilience, strategic preparation, and sustained effort over time.

 

Two Pathways to Determine the Right Starting Point

Every student is different.

Some 6th graders need foundational strengthening.

Some 7th graders are ready for the SHSAT-specific strategy.

Some 8th graders need focused gap-closing and stamina work.

Families typically begin with one of two pathways:

Academic Readiness Evaluation

For students who need to strengthen math, reading, or grammar skills before beginning SHSAT-specific preparation.

This evaluation focuses on core academic foundations to ensure readiness.

SHSAT Diagnostic Assessment

For students who are academically ready and preparing specifically for the specialized high school admissions exam.

This assessment evaluates SHSAT-style math application, advanced reading comprehension, pacing, and reasoning under timed conditions.

Beginning with the appropriate pathway prevents unnecessary stress and allows preparation to be strategic.

 

Not Sure Where Your Child Stands?

The most productive first step is clarity.

Our free SHSAT practice assessment gives students exposure to real SHSAT-style questions in both math and ELA under timed conditions. It mirrors the reasoning style and pacing students will encounter on the actual exam.

 

Take the Free SHSAT Practice Assessment

After completing the assessment, families may

Schedule Your SHSAT Results Review

to interpret scores and determine the appropriate preparation pathway.

Structured SHSAT classes and summer programs fill well before the fall exam. Beginning with a clear plan ensures preparation is intentional — not rushed.

 

Final Thought

Starting too early can create stress.

Starting too late can create pressure.

Starting at the right time builds confidence.

Preparation works best when it’s thoughtful and fits your child’s needs.

—

Christine Carroll, Ed.S.

Founder & Educational Director, Tutoring by Christine

A Parent Guide to the TACHS Exam (2026)

Updated for the 2026 TACHS Exam

By Christine Carroll, Founder of Tutoring by Christine

If your child is applying to Catholic high schools in New York City, whether in Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, or beyond, understanding the TACHS exam is essential.

Each year, families navigating Catholic high school admissions hear conflicting information about the test. Is it harder than middle school work? When should preparation begin? How important are TACHS scores? What actually improves performance?

With over 30 years in education and nearly 15 years specializing in Catholic high school admissions test preparation, my goal is simple: to take the confusion out of the TACHS process so families can move forward with clarity, structure, and confidence.

This guide explains what the TACHS exam measures, how it is structured, and how to approach preparation strategically.

What Is the TACHS Exam?

The TACHS (Test for Admission into Catholic High Schools) is the standardized entrance exam used by Catholic high schools throughout New York City and Long Island.

Students applying to Catholic high schools in Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and surrounding areas typically take the TACHS during the fall of 8th grade.

While each school makes independent admissions decisions, TACHS scores often play an important role in admissions placement and scholarship consideration. Because of this, preparation should be intentional, not rushed.

TACHS Exam Structure at a Glance

The TACHS includes:

• Six sections total
• 200 multiple-choice questions
• Approximately two hours of testing time (excluding directions)
• Administration typically occurs on the first Friday in November of the 8th grade

The TACHS is administered digitally, and students complete the exam on a computer at home under timed conditions.

The six sections are:

• Reading
• Language
• Mathematics
• Ability Section 1
• Ability Section 2
• Ability Section 3

Although the exam assesses four academic domains (Reading, Language, Mathematics, and Ability), the Ability portion is divided into three separate sections. Reasoning and analytical thinking make up a significant portion of the exam.

Each section is timed individually.

Students may not return to a previous section once time has expired.

This makes pacing and section management extremely important.

 

The Digital Format and At-Home Testing Environment

Because the TACHS is administered digitally and taken at home, preparation must go beyond academic content.

Students should be comfortable with:

• Reading extended passages on a screen
• Managing time without physical page flipping
• Navigating between questions within a section
• Maintaining focus in a home environment

Families should ensure:

• A quiet, distraction-free testing space
• Reliable internet access
• A fully charged device or power connection
• Familiarity with keyboard and mouse navigation

Screen stamina is a real factor. Students who are not accustomed to sustained on-screen reading may experience fatigue more quickly.

Practicing in a digital format that mirrors the actual TACHS experience helps reduce anxiety and improve performance on test day.

 

What the TACHS Really Measures

The TACHS aligns with middle school academic standards. It does not test advanced high school content.

However, the structure, wording, and time constraints make it rigorous.

Reading

Students analyze passages, determine main ideas, draw inferences, and interpret vocabulary within context. Strong comprehension skills and reading stamina are essential.

Language

This section evaluates grammar, usage, and sentence structure. Students must apply rules of standard written English efficiently and accurately.

Mathematics

Students apply middle school math concepts, including arithmetic, fractions, ratios, percentages, and foundational pre-algebra reasoning.

Calculators are not permitted on the TACHS math section.

Students must rely on strong number sense, mental math skills, and efficient problem-solving strategies under timed conditions.

Ability (Three Sections)

The Ability sections measure logical reasoning, pattern recognition, relationships, sequences, and analytical thinking.

Because three separate sections assess reasoning, students who prepare only academic content, without strengthening analytical thinking, often struggle.

The TACHS is structured and strategic. Preparation should be structured and strategic as well.

 

When Should Students Begin TACHS Preparation?

Preparation timelines depend on readiness.

Some students benefit from strengthening foundational skills in 6th or 7th grade, particularly in reading comprehension and math reasoning. Others may be ready for focused TACHS preparation in early 8th grade.

Important readiness questions include:

• Are foundational academic skills solid?
• Is reading stamina strong enough for timed passages?
• Does timing impact performance?
• Are there gaps in grammar or math fluency?

Beginning preparation without understanding readiness can lead to frustration. Beginning with a diagnostic assessment provides clarity and direction.

 

Common TACHS Preparation Mistakes

Families across New York City often make similar mistakes when preparing for the TACHS:

• Waiting until late 8th grade to begin
• Taking multiple practice tests without reviewing errors deeply
• Assuming strong report card grades automatically translate to strong TACHS performance
• Focusing heavily on one section while neglecting others
• Misunderstanding percentile rankings on score reports

The TACHS requires more than exposure. It requires a plan.

Structured instruction, targeted review, and consistent timed practice produce stronger results than last-minute cramming.

 

What Strategic TACHS Preparation Looks Like

Effective TACHS preparation includes:

• Strengthening foundational reading and math skills
• Teaching students how to approach specific question types
• Practicing under timed digital conditions
• Reviewing mistakes systematically
• Building stamina and confidence

When preparation is balanced and consistent, students improve both accuracy and efficiency.

Confidence increases when students understand not only the material but also the exam’s structure.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About the TACHS

How many sections are on the TACHS exam?

The TACHS is divided into six sections: Reading, Language, Mathematics, and three separate Ability sections.

How many questions are on the TACHS?

There are 200 multiple-choice questions.

When is the TACHS given?

The TACHS is typically administered on the first Friday in November of a student’s 8th-grade year.

Are calculators allowed?

No. Calculators are not permitted in the Mathematics section.

Can students return to previous sections?

No. Once the time for a section has expired, students may not return to it.

 

The Right First Step

Catholic high school admissions can feel overwhelming, especially when families are unsure where their child stands.

The most effective way to approach TACHS preparation is not to guess, not to cram, and not to wait.

It is to begin with clarity.

A TACHS Readiness Assessment provides objective data about:

• Academic strengths
•  Skill gaps
•  Timing challenges
•  The most appropriate preparation pathway

With the right plan in place, preparation becomes focused, efficient, and far less stressful.

Families across New York City benefit most when preparation is intentional and structured months before the November exam date.

If your child plans to take the TACHS this fall, now is the time to determine readiness and build a clear strategy.

Strategic preparation leads to stronger performance.

And stronger performance opens doors.

The SHSAT, Explained (Without the Stress)

For many families, the SHSAT can feel overwhelming before the process even begins. Acronyms, timelines, score reports, and high stakes can make parents feel like they need a decoder just to get started. If you’ve ever wondered what this test really is and how you’re supposed to help your child without adding pressure, you’re not alone.

This guide breaks down the SHSAT in clear, straightforward terms so you can feel informed, calm, and confident as you navigate the process.

What Is the SHSAT?

The SHSAT (Specialized High Schools Admissions Test) is the entrance exam used for admission to New York City’s specialized public high schools. For most students, it’s taken in 8th grade, though a smaller number of 9th graders may also take it for limited seats. Most test-takers are between 12 and 13 years old.

Unlike regular school exams, the SHSAT is a single, standardized test that plays a major role in admissions decisions. Grades, report cards, and teacher recommendations are not part of the process for these schools.

What Is the Test Like?

The SHSAT is a multiple-choice exam that lasts about three hours and is divided into two main sections: English Language Arts (ELA) and Math.

The ELA section focuses on reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and vocabulary through passages and questions; there is no essay. The Math section covers middle school–level topics such as arithmetic, fractions, ratios, algebra basics, and problem-solving. Calculators are not allowed.

Starting in 2026, the SHSAT will transition to a computer-adaptive test (CAT) format, adjusting question difficulty based on a student’s ongoing performance. This means students will not be able to move between sections or revisit questions once they advance, making pacing and careful attention to each question even more important.

Why the Process Feels Confusing for Parents

Many parents find the SHSAT process difficult to understand, and that’s not a reflection of their involvement or effort. The system itself is unfamiliar.

There is no clear “passing score.” Instead, scores are scaled, and cutoffs change from year to year based on overall performance and seat availability. This makes it hard to know what score is “good enough” or how competitive your child really is.

On top of that, the timeline, including registration, testing dates, score reports, and school selection, can feel fragmented. Families often turn to online forums or group chats for answers, only to find conflicting or outdated advice.

When Should Families Start Preparing?

There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline. Some students benefit from starting early and moving slowly, while others do better with focused preparation closer to the test date. What matters most is having a realistic plan that fits your child’s learning style and your family’s schedule.

Preparation doesn’t have to mean constant test drills. Understanding the format, building strong reading habits, practicing problem-solving, and learning basic test strategies can go a long way, without burnout.

How Parents Can Support Without Adding Stress

One of the biggest challenges for parents is finding the balance between being supportive and unintentionally increasing pressure. Staying informed, keeping expectations realistic, and focusing on effort rather than outcomes can make a huge difference.

Remember: the SHSAT is important, but it is not the only path to a great high school education. Helping your child feel calm, prepared, and supported matters just as much as the score itself.

You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone

The SHSAT doesn’t need to feel mysterious or intimidating. With clear information and thoughtful guidance, families can navigate the process with confidence and far less stress.

If you’re looking for a calm, parent-friendly walkthrough of the SHSAT, what it is, how it works, and how to prepare effectively, we invite you to join our upcoming webinar, “The SHSAT, Explained (Without the Stress).” It’s designed to give you clarity, confidence, and practical next steps, because understanding the process is the first step toward supporting your child well.

Confident and Prepared: Guiding Your Child Through 2026 High School Admissions

High school admissions can feel overwhelming but you don’t have to go through it alone. With new changes in 2026, from digital testing to more competitive expectations, families are facing challenges that can seem daunting. The good news? With the right support, your child can approach this journey with clarity, confidence, and even excitement. Our goal is to give you the tools, strategies, and encouragement you need to help your child not only prepare, but truly thrive.

By: Christine Carroll, EdS
Published: September 2025

 

Why 2026 Feels Different

Every year, high school admissions in NYC bring stress and uncertainty, but 2026 adds new challenges.

• Digital-first testing: The SHSAT has fully transitioned to a computer-based format, with adaptive testing coming in 2026.
• Competitive edge: More families are investing in early prep, which raises the bar for students.
• Holistic reviews: Many Catholic and private schools are looking beyond scores, placing greater weight on grades, conduct, and engagement.

Our goal is to help families face these changes with clarity, structure, and confidence.

 

Key Exams for 2026

• SHSAT – Admission to specialized public schools (e.g., Staten Island Tech, Stuyvesant, Brooklyn Tech). Now fully digital and preparing to move adaptive in 2026.
• TACHS – Required for Catholic schools like St. Peter’s, Moore Catholic, Monsignor Farrell, Notre Dame Academy, St. Joseph Hill, and St. Joseph by-the-Sea.
• HSPT / ISEE – Used by private schools such as Regis, Xavier, and Staten Island Academy. The HSPT is also used to award scholarships at many Catholic schools.

Key Change: Unlike previous years, families should expect admissions teams to weigh seventh-grade performance and authentic effort alongside test scores.

 

 

What to Do and When

6th Grade (2024–25) – Build foundations: reading stamina, math fluency, vocabulary.
7th Grade (2025–26) – Begin diagnostic testing, refine weak areas, and learn strategies.
8th Grade (2026) – Commit to structured prep: full-length exams, timed practice, and stress-management techniques.

With the digital SHSAT and evolving expectations, students need not just content knowledge, but also comfort with test platforms and adaptive strategies.

SHSAT vs. TACHS – 2026 at a Glance

Feature	SHSAT	TACHS
Format	Fully digital in public schools	Remote, proctored at home
Structure	Two sections: English Language Arts & Math	Four sections: Reading, Language, Math, Ability
Movement Between Sections	Yes	No
Time	~3 hours	~2.5 hours
Calculator	Not allowed	Not allowed

 

Beyond the Score: Finding the Right Fit

The right high school for your child isn’t just about prestige. It’s about where they’ll thrive, grow, and prepare for the next stage of life.

Ways families can explore schools in 2026:

• Use the Archdiocese handbook (released August 1) and the NYC MySchools site.
• Attend open houses, plays, sports events, and showcases to get a feel for culture.
• Schedule shadow days for first-hand experience.
• Match schools with your child’s strengths and interests—STEM, arts, finance, honors, and more.

Tutoring by Christine: Confidence, Strategy, Growth

At Tutoring by Christine, we help students meet 2026’s challenges with:

• Targeted review in reading, grammar, and math
• Digital practice exams and timed drills
• Stress-reduction strategies tailored for test day
• In-depth error analysis to turn mistakes into progress

Students don’t just practice, they build confidence and resilience.

 

Watch the Webinar Video
Watch the full webinar below to hear helpful tips from Christine Carroll. Find out what high schools are really looking for and how you can support your child through the admissions process.

 

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Tutoring by Christine offers flexible options for families preparing for 2026 admissions:

• TACHS & SHSAT prep courses (summer, fall, and year-round)
• Foundational courses in reading, writing, and math
• Private tutoring designed to strengthen executive functioning and test confidence

Together, we can reduce the stress and set your student up for success in 2026 and beyond.

Best regards, 

Christine Carroll, EdS

 

How You Can Help Your Child Prepare for High School Admission Tests.

By: Christine Carroll,
Published: May 2025

Watch the Webinar

Missed our recent webinar? You can watch the replay at the bottom of this post! “From Stressed to Success: Mastering High School Admissions Tests,” at the bottom of this post. Learn everything you need to guide your child through the SHSAT, TACHS, and NYC high school admissions process with clarity and confidence.

Why It Matters

Applying to high school in NYC can be confusing and stressful. There are tests to take, deadlines to track, and big choices to make—all while your child is still in middle school.

We made this webinar to help. It gives families a clear plan, useful tools, and important dates so you can feel more prepared and less overwhelmed.

 

Understanding NYC High School Admissions

NYC students can apply to a mix of public, Catholic, and private high schools, each with different expectations and entrance exams.

Key Exams Covered:

• SHSAT – For entry into specialized public schools (e.g., Staten Island Tech, Stuyvesant, Brooklyn Tech)
• TACHS – Required by Catholic high schools such as St. Peter’s, Moore Catholic, Monsignor Farrell, Notre Dame Academy, St. Joseph Hill, and St. Joseph by-the-Sea
• HSPT / ISEE – Used by private schools like Regis, Xavier, and Staten Island Academy. The HSPT is also used by many Catholic high schools to award scholarships.

Some Catholic high schools rely solely on TACHS scores, while others also review grades, conduct, teacher comments, and attendance. Specialized public high schools rely only on SHSAT results.

 

What to Do and When

Preparation by Grade Level:

• 6th Grade – Focus on reading stamina, math fluency, and vocabulary development
• 7th Grade – Begin diagnostic testing, build foundational skills, and start strategy prep
• 8th Grade – Commit to structured test prep with full-length practice exams and timed drills

 

SHSAT vs. TACHS – What’s the Difference?

Feature	SHSAT	TACHS
Format	Digital, taken in public school	Taken at home, remotely proctored
Structure	Two sections: English Language Arts (Revising/Editing and Reading Comprehension) and Math	Four sections: Reading Comprehension, Grammar/Editing, Math, and Ability
Movement Between Sections	Yes	No
Time	~3 hours	~2 and a half hours
Calculator Allowed	No	No

 

Beyond Test Scores: Finding the Right Fit

The best school for your child isn’t necessarily the most well-known or selective—it’s the one where they’ll feel supported, inspired, and able to thrive. These four years should help your child grow academically and personally, preparing them for the next stage of life.

Here’s how families can explore options and find the best environment for their student:

• Attend open houses using the Archdiocese handbook (available August 1) or visit the NYC MySchools website
• Explore the TACHS Exam website for registration deadlines, testing information, and more
• Go to events like school plays, concerts, art shows, and sports games to get a feel for school culture
• Schedule shadow days so students experience a real school day
• Ask about programs aligned with your student’s interests—STEM, performing arts, finance, honors programs, and more

 

At Tutoring by Christine, We Focus on Confidence & Growth

Our students don’t just practice—they reflect, improve, and build confidence. Whether in group classes or one-on-one sessions, we guide students through:

• Targeted content review in math, grammar, and reading
• Timed drills and mock exams
• In-depth error analysis and feedback
• Test-taking strategies and stress-reduction techniques

Students leave our programs prepared—and more importantly, empowered.

 

A Message from Our Guest Expert

During the webinar, we were joined by Vincent Navabi, Director of Admissions at Monsignor Farrell High School. He provided key insights about what admissions teams look for beyond test scores, including seventh-grade performance, school engagement, and upward academic growth.

His advice? Support students in discovering their strengths, encourage them to explore school options deeply, and remember that authentic effort matters just as much as outcomes.

 

Watch the Webinar Video

Watch the full webinar below to hear helpful tips from Christine Carroll and Vincent Navabi. Find out what high schools are really looking for and how you can support your child through the admissions process.

 

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Tutoring by Christine offers comprehensive support for families preparing for high school admissions:

• TACHS & SHSAT prep courses (summer, fall, and year-round)
• Foundational courses that build reading, writing, and math fluency
• Private tutoring designed to meet each student’s academic goals, strengthen executive functioning, and build test-day confidence

Let’s reduce the stress—and help your student take the next step with confidence.

Best regards, 

Christine Carroll, EdS

How You Can Help Your Child Prepare for High School Admission Tests.

By: Christine Carroll,

Preparing for high school admission tests can be a stressful time for both students and parents. As a parent, you want to provide the right balance of support, guidance, and encouragement to help your child succeed. Here are some practical ways to help your middle schooler build strong study habits, reduce test anxiety, and stay organized throughout the admissions process.

1. Establish a Study Routine

Consistency is key when preparing for high school admission tests. Help your child create a study schedule that includes:

• Dedicated Study Time: Encourage daily or weekly sessions rather than last-minute cramming.
• Breaks and Downtime: Short breaks between study sessions improve focus and retention.
• A Distraction-Free Environment: Set up a quiet, organized study space, away from distractions like TV or social media.

2. Teach Effective Study Habits

Support your child in developing strategies that maximize learning:

• Active Learning: Encourage summarizing information, teaching concepts to others, and using flashcards instead of passive reading.
• Practice Tests: Simulating test conditions with timed practice exams helps build endurance and familiarity with the format.
• Note-Taking Techniques: Show them how to use outlines, color coding, and visual aids to organize information.

3. Address Test Anxiety

It’s normal for students to feel nervous about high-stakes exams, but parents can help reduce anxiety:

• Normalize the Experience: Remind your child that feeling nervous is a natural part of test-taking.
• Teach Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, mindfulness, and positive self-talk can help manage stress.
• Encourage a Growth Mindset: Emphasize effort and progress rather than perfection—learning from mistakes is part of the process.

4. Stay Organized with a Study Plan

High school admissions tests require preparation in multiple subject areas. Help your child break tasks into manageable steps:

• Create a Checklist: Track important test dates, registration deadlines, and study goals.
• Use a Planner or Digital Tools: Calendar apps or a simple notebook can help track study sessions and assignments.
• Set Small, Achievable Goals: Instead of overwhelming your child with big tasks, break them down into daily or weekly objectives.

5. Provide Emotional and Practical Support

Beyond academics, students need encouragement and reassurance:

• Be a Cheerleader, Not a Critic: Celebrate small wins and acknowledge their hard work.
• Encourage Healthy Habits: Good nutrition, sleep, and exercise play a huge role in cognitive function and focus.
• Know When to Seek Extra Help: If your child is struggling, consider a tutor or academic coach who specializes in test prep.

Final Thoughts

By fostering strong study habits, addressing test anxiety, and keeping your child organized, you can play a vital role in their test preparation journey. The key is to provide guidance without adding pressure—creating a positive learning environment where they feel supported and empowered to succeed.

Remember, preparing for high school admission tests is not just about the test itself, but about building lifelong skills in time management, resilience, and self-motivation. Your child can approach the challenge with confidence and a mindset for success with your support!