SHSAT test dates 2026
The 2026–2027 cycle: register in September 2026, test in October–November 2026, results in March 2027. Specific dates within each window are assigned by the NYC DOE.
- When was the 2025–2026 SHSAT?
- October–November 2025. Results were released in March 2026. The cutoffs from this cycle (Stuyvesant 556, Bronx Science 518, Brooklyn Tech 505, and others) are the most recent published.
- When is the 2026–2027 SHSAT?
- October–November 2026, with specific dates assigned by the NYC DOE in late summer 2026. Results will be released in March 2027.
- When does registration open?
- Mid-September 2026 through MySchools NYC. Deadline is typically mid-October.
- When are scores released?
- Early-to-mid March each year, about 3–4 months after the test. Exact date is announced by the NYC DOE in late February.
The 2025–2026 cycle (results released March 2026)
The most recently completed SHSAT cycle was 2025–2026. This was the first cycle using the new Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) digital format, which replaced the long-standing paper-and-pencil test.
| Phase | Date range |
|---|---|
| Registration opens | September 2025 |
| Registration deadline | Mid-October 2025 |
| Test administration | October–November 2025 |
| Scoring period | December 2025 – February 2026 |
| Results released | Early-to-mid March 2026 |
| Acceptance window | March–April 2026 |
Cutoffs from this cycle: Stuyvesant 556, Staten Island Tech 527, Queens Sciences 527, HSMSE 526, Bronx Science 518, HSAS Lehman 516, Brooklyn Tech 505, Brooklyn Latin 493. See our cutoff scores page for historical context.
The 2026–2027 cycle (upcoming)
The upcoming SHSAT cycle follows the same general timeline:
| Phase | Expected date |
|---|---|
| Registration opens | September 2026 (exact date TBD by NYC DOE) |
| Registration deadline | Mid-October 2026 |
| Test administration | October–November 2026 |
| Results released | Early-to-mid March 2027 |
| Acceptance window | March–April 2027 |
Specific dates within each window are typically announced by the NYC DOE in late summer (for fall test dates) and in late February (for the March results date). Check schools.nyc.gov for official announcements.
How test dates are assigned
Within the October–November window, each student is assigned a specific test date and location by the NYC DOE based on:
- Current school: Most students take the test at their own school on a date assigned to that school.
- Grade level: 8th-grade and 9th-grade administrations are separate dates.
- Accommodations: Students with extended-time accommodations or separate-room requirements may take the test on different dates from their classmates.
- Non-DOE students: Private and parochial students are assigned to nearby DOE testing sites.
Test date and location are confirmed by the NYC DOE in October, after registration closes. Watch your MySchools dashboard and student's school for the specific date assignment.
What if you can't take the test on your assigned date?
The NYC DOE generally administers makeup dates for documented absences (illness, family emergency, religious observance). Makeup requests must be submitted promptly through your school counselor with appropriate documentation. Students who miss the test without an approved excuse generally cannot reschedule and lose their opportunity to take the SHSAT that cycle.
Planning preparation around the test date
For families starting to prepare:
- 9+ months out (winter/spring before testing year): Long-runway preparation. Take a baseline practice test to establish current ability. Begin foundational work on math curriculum gaps and reading comprehension stamina.
- 6 months out (April–May): Begin structured prep using a curriculum that covers all SHSAT topics. Take occasional full-length practice tests to track progress.
- 3 months out (July–August): Intensive prep season. Most students benefit from 5–10 hours/week during summer. Focus on weak areas identified from earlier practice tests.
- 1 month out (September): Maintenance. Full-length timed practice tests once or twice a week. Avoid burnout — at this point, additional content learning has diminishing returns.
- 1 week out: Reduce intensity. Sleep, hydration, and consistent test-taking conditions matter more than additional study.
Common questions
When is the 2026 SHSAT?
The 2026–2027 SHSAT cycle's test window is October–November 2026. Specific dates within that window are assigned by the NYC DOE in late summer 2026 based on each student's current school and grade.
When will I find out my 2026 SHSAT score?
Results from the October–November 2026 test administration will be released in early-to-mid March 2027 via MySchools NYC.
Can I choose my test date?
Generally, no. The NYC DOE assigns test dates based on your current school. Students requiring accommodations may have different date options. Families with documented scheduling conflicts (religious observance, family emergency) can request specific date considerations through their school counselor.
What if my child is sick on test day?
Contact your school counselor immediately. The NYC DOE generally provides makeup dates for documented illness. Without documentation, makeups may not be granted, and missing the test means missing the SHSAT cycle.