When Should My Child Start Preparing for the SHSAT?
If your child dreams of going to a Specialized High School in New York City—like Stuyvesant, Bronx Science, or Brooklyn Tech—you’ve probably heard of the SHSAT. It’s a big test that decides who gets in, and for many parents, the first question is: When should we start preparing?
That’s a great question—and one I hear a lot from families. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But the good news is, whether your child is in 6th grade or already in 8th, there’s a clear path you can follow. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the best time to begin SHSAT prep and how to make a plan that works for your child.
Why Timing Matters
The SHSAT is different from most school tests. It includes math and reading questions that are often above grade level. And there are no other parts to the application—just the test score. That means students only get one shot to show what they know.
That’s why starting early can make a big difference. When students have more time to learn and practice, they feel more confident. They don’t have to rush. And best of all, they can avoid the stress that comes with cramming at the last minute.
SHSAT Prep by Grade Level
6th Grade: Build Strong Habits Early
In 6th grade, students don’t need to dive into test prep just yet. Instead, it’s a great time to build strong foundations. That means reading every day, getting better at math facts, and practicing writing and grammar.
You can also help your child build good study habits. Try setting up a weekly homework routine, encouraging them to read for fun, or playing games that build problem-solving skills. This year is all about getting ready to get ready—no pressure, just strong basics.
7th Grade: Start Focused Practice
By 7th grade, it’s time to start thinking seriously about the SHSAT. The second half of the school year is a great time to begin light prep. Your child can take a diagnostic test to find out what they’re already good at and where they need support.
A little bit each week—maybe 1 to 2 hours—goes a long way. You can use online tools, practice books, or work with a tutor if you’d like more structure. The goal this year is to start learning how the test works, build test-taking confidence, and close any learning gaps early.
Summer Before 8th Grade: Time to Level Up
The summer before 8th grade is when most families really ramp up their SHSAT prep. Without school in the way, your child can focus on learning test strategies, practicing time management, and taking full-length practice tests.
If your child is testing in 2025 or 2026, they’ll be taking the digital version of the SHSAT. That means they’ll need to be comfortable using a computer to read, answer questions, and solve math problems. It’s important to start practicing with digital tools now so your child isn’t surprised on test day.
8th Grade: Final Practice and Confidence
When school starts again in 8th grade, it’s time to lock in all the learning from the summer. Your child should keep reviewing their weak spots, take timed mock tests, and work on staying calm under pressure.
Don’t try to learn everything at once. At this point, it’s better to focus on mastering what they already know and getting used to the test’s pacing. Confidence, strategy, and practice are key in these final weeks.
What Else Can Affect When to Start?
Every child is different, so your prep plan should fit your child’s learning style and needs. If your child struggles in math, you might start earlier to build confidence. If they’re already strong in reading, you might focus more on math later on.
Think about your family’s schedule, too. Some students play sports or take music lessons and need to balance their time. Others may not be ready for formal prep in 6th grade—and that’s okay! The best plan is the one that feels manageable for your family.
What If We’re Starting Late?
Don’t worry! Many students start SHSAT prep in 8th grade and still do very well. The key is to use your time wisely. Begin with a practice test to see where your child stands. Focus on the topics that will have the biggest impact. Practice under timed conditions. And stay positive—progress is always possible, no matter when you start.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for the SHSAT is a journey, not a race. Whether you start in 6th grade or 8th, what matters most is that your child feels supported, confident, and ready. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. With the right plan, your child can go from nervous to test-ready—and maybe even excited—for what’s ahead.
Have questions about SHSAT prep or not sure where to start? I’m happy to help. Feel free to reach out or drop a comment below!