CPS HSAT Myths vs. Facts: Debunking 5 Common Misconceptions
In the high-stakes world of Chicago Public Schools admissions, rumors and myths can spread like wildfire. This misinformation causes unnecessary stress for families and can lead to costly strategic mistakes on your high school application.
It's time to set the record straight. This guide will act as your official fact-checker, debunking five of the most common and dangerous misconceptions about the HSAT and the application process.
Myth #1: You should rank a "safe" school first to guarantee a spot.
Fact: This is the single most damaging myth in the entire process. The GoCPS system uses a "single best offer" model, meaning it will only evaluate your eligibility for your #1 ranked school first. If you qualify and get a seat, the process stops, and the system never even looks at your #2 choice. By ranking a "safe" school first, you forfeit your chance at your true dream school. The only correct strategy is to rank schools in your genuine order of preference, which we explain in our Strategic Guide to Ranking Schools.
Myth #2: The HSAT is full of unfair "trick questions."
Fact: While the HSAT certainly has tricky problems, they are not designed to be unfair. They are pattern-based questions created to test a student's depth of understanding and problem-solving skills, not just memorization. The problems that seem like traps, like the ones we break down in our 5 Trickiest Math Problems guide, are entirely solvable with the right strategy and a cool head.
Myth #3: You can't really study for the Reading section.
Fact: This is completely false. The Reading section is not a test of innate talent; it is a test of specific, learnable skills. Finding the main idea, making a logical inference, and understanding vocabulary in context are all skills that can be dramatically improved with focused practice. Our Deep Dive into Reading Comprehension shows you exactly how to build these skills.
Myth #4: It's better to leave an answer blank than to guess.
Fact: The HSAT does not have a guessing penalty. Your score is based only on the number of questions you answer correctly. An unanswered question is always worth zero points. A random guess has at least a chance of being correct and earning you points. You should never leave a multiple-choice question blank on the HSAT, even if you have to guess randomly in the final seconds.
Myth #5: Your 8th-grade grades are what count for the application.
Fact: This is a critical and common misunderstanding. The admissions score is calculated using your final 7th-grade grades in the four core subjects (Math, English, Science, Social Studies). Your 8th-grade year is for taking the HSAT and completing the application, but your 7th-grade academic performance is what makes up half of your score. This is why our Guide for 7th Graders is such an essential read for younger families.
The Ultimate Fact-Checker: Your Practice Test
The best way to cut through all the rumors is to see the test for yourself. When you take a realistic CPS HSAT Practice Test, you get your own personal, factual data. You'll see that the questions are tough but fair and that reading strategies work. It's the ultimate truth-teller in your preparation process. Focus on the facts, follow a smart plan, and you will be on the most direct path to success.