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High School Entrance Exams

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to high school entrance exams. As a pivotal stepping stone towards your child’s future, these tests play a critical role in the admissions process for many selective high schools. The stakes are high, but with the right preparation and guidance your student can  maximize their chances of securing a spot at a school of their choice.

High School Entrance Exams Overview

At Academic Approach, we specialize in offering personalized tutoring to help your student succeed on high school entrance exams like the HSPT, ISEE, SSAT, CPS HSAT, and SHSAT. Our customized approach ensures that each student’s unique needs and learning styles are taken into account, leading to effective, results-driven preparation.

HSPT
(High School Placement Test)

The HSPT is a requirement for admission into many parochial schools, including Loyola Academy and St. Ignatius College Prep. This test is typically administered in December, when students are in their eighth-grade year.

Learn More About HSPT

ISEE
(Independent Schools Entrance Exam)

The ISEE is used as part of the admissions process for many prestigious independent schools, such as Dalton, Fieldston, Francis W. Parker, University of Chicago Laboratory School, and The Latin School of Chicago. The ISEE can be taken any time between October and January, during the students’ eighth-grade year.

Learn More About ISEE

SSAT
(Secondary School Admission Test)

The SSAT is utilized in the admissions procedures of many esteemed boarding schools, such as St. Pauls, Phillips Exeter, and Lake Forest Academy. The SSAT is typically scheduled between October and January, during the students’ eighth-grade year.

Learn More About SSAT

CPS HSAT
(Chicago Public Schools' High School Admissions Test)

The CPS HSAT is required by the Chicago Public Schools’ Selective Enrollment Schools, which include Walter Payton, Northside Prep, Lane Tech, Whitney Young, Jones, Brooks, King, Lindblom, Westinghouse, and South Shore. This test is administered in the fall of the students’ eighth-grade year.

Learn More About CPS HSAT

SHSAT
(Specialized High School Admissions Test)

The SHSAT is required by New York City’s Specialized High Schools, which include Brooklyn Tech, Bronx Science, Stuyvesant, and High School of American Studies. The test is taken in November, during the students’ eighth-grade year.

Learn More About SHSAT

Ready to Get Started?
Two Ways to Succeed.

One-on-One Tutoring

Tailored to Your Student. Focused on Results.

Every student is different. That’s why our personalized one-on-one tutoring begins with a diagnostic assessment to identify your child’s strengths, weaknesses, and goals. From there, we build a fully customized plan to support their high school entrance exam success — whether it’s the HSPT, ISEE, HSAT, or SSAT.

  • Expert tutors matched to your student’s learning style
  • Flexible scheduling and virtual convenience, with in-person options available
  • Proven score improvements with focused instruction
Best for:
Families seeking the highest level of customization and support.
Get Started Now

Small Group Classes

Structured, Affordable, and Effective.

Our entrance exam classes offer high-quality instruction in a group setting. These courses provide accessible, effective preparation — a great option for students beginning their test prep journey.

  • Engaging, interactive sessions
  • Practice tests and key strategies covered
  • In-person and virtual options available
Best for:
Families looking for a strong introduction to test prep.
Learn More and Register

Not sure which is right for your student?

Schedule a Free Consultation and we’ll help you choose the best path forward.
Academic Approach Tutoring and Test Prep | Two students work together at a desk, focusing on a booklet titled "Navigating High School Entrance Exams: A Personalized Approach" by Academic Approach.

Free eBook

Navigating High School Entrance Exams

Navigating the path to top high schools can feel like solving a complex puzzle, especially when it comes to entrance exams. Find guidance and assurance with our ebook, “Navigating High School Entrance Exams: A Personalized Approach.”

This essential guide simplifies the world of high school admissions tests, empowering you to identify the best approach for your child’s academic future.

Download Now

Our High School Entrance Exam Tutoring Approach

At Academic Approach, we provide personalized tutoring to empower students for high school entrance exams like the HSPT, ISEE, SSAT, CPS HSAT, and SHSAT. Our approach, tailored to each student’s unique needs and learning style, not only helps them master test content but also equips them with effective test-taking strategies. Our aim is to boost students’ confidence and performance, increasing their chances of gaining admission to their preferred high schools. Let Academic Approach be your guide on this crucial educational journey.

It's why we've designed our HSEE tutoring programs to 
  • align with each student's unique needs and objectives,
  • utilize practice test data to guide instruction, and
  • support student growth and confidence.
"My tutor was more than just a weekly appointment. He really listened, always asked how my basketball team was doing, He cared. He made what could have been a boring experience something I looked forward to each week. "
New Trier Student, Class of 2024
Student, New Trier Student, Class of 2024
Beyond the Test

We’re not just helping your student prepare for an entrance exam; we’re equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in high school and beyond.

Empowering Students, Enriching Lives

At Academic Approach, our middle school students don’t just boost their scores; they develop confidence, cultivate resilience, and nurture a growth mindset. These skills aren’t just for the test; they’re for a successful transition into high school and for lifelong learning.

Data-Driven Results

By analyzing data from diagnostic tests, we craft a study plan that’s tailored just for you, catering to your student’s unique learning needs.

Starting Your Journey with Academic Approach

Embarking on a high school entrance exam preparation journey with Academic Approach is a breeze. We kick off with a complimentary diagnostic test and consultation to comprehend your student’s individual needs and aspirations.

Arrange your consultation today. Together, we will help your student achieve their academic goals.

Start Your Journey Now

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