SHSAT glossary
Plain-language definitions of every SHSAT and specialized high school admissions term you'll encounter. No jargon, no padding — just clear answers with links to deeper guides.
Plain-language definitions of the SHSAT and specialized high school admissions terms you'll encounter. Each entry links to the longer cluster pages where the concept fits into the broader picture. Short answers, no jargon.
Scoring terms
Raw Score
The count of correct answers on each section, 0–57.
Scaled Score
The equated version of the raw score, 100–400 per section.
Composite Score
Sum of the two scaled scores, 200–800. The admissions number.
Cutoff Score
The composite required for admission to a specific school.
Percentile Rank
What percentage of test-takers you scored higher than.
Equating
The statistical process that keeps scaled scores comparable across years.
Test format terms
Computer Adaptive Test (CAT)
The new digital format introduced in October 2025.
Item Response Theory (IRT)
The statistical model behind the SHSAT-CAT scoring.
Field Question
Unscored experimental questions mixed into the test.
Grid-In Question
Free-response math questions, no multiple choice options.