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?

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