Unlock Your Future
The CPS High School Admissions Test (HSAT) is the gateway to Chicago's top high schools. Your performance on this single test can define your educational path. See why preparation is everything.
A high-pressure race against the clock.
No retakes. Your first attempt is your only attempt.
Reading and Math determine your entire score.
Anatomy of the Test
The HSAT is a crucial achievement skills test assessing 8th graders in Math and Reading for GoCPS applications. It's perfectly balanced between these two critical academic areas, with each section demanding both speed and accuracy. Mastery of one is not enough; success requires excellence in both.
HSAT Key Facts
How It Works: Current CPS Students
The test is scheduled and administered at your own school during a regular school day. For alternate language options, speak with your child's current school to make arrangements.
How It Works: Non-CPS Students
You must create a GoCPS account to register for the test and select a date and location. To request the test in another language, contact the GoCPS office directly.
Important Policies
- Languages: Available in English, Spanish, Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Polish, and Urdu. Your language choice is final.
- No Retakes: Students can only take the test one time.
- Accommodations: Students with current IEPs or 504s should verify that accommodations are in place before testing. Students who qualify for DLM-AA are not required to test.
The Power of Practice
Knowledge alone isn't enough. True preparation builds the skills to perform under pressure. Here’s how targeted practice transforms potential into performance.
Mastering the Clock: Pacing is Key
An unprepared student often runs out of time, leaving easy points on the table. A prepared student maintains a steady pace, attempting every question.
The "Testing Effect": Learn by Doing
Scientific studies show that active recall (testing) leads to significantly better long-term memory retention than passive studying.
From Anxiety to Confidence
Test anxiety often comes from the unknown. Familiarity with the test format builds the confidence needed to perform at your best.
The Unprepared Path
The Prepared Path
Study Smarter, Not Harder
Why guess where you need to improve? Practice tests act as a diagnostic tool, creating a data-driven "skill map" of your strengths and weaknesses. This allows you to focus your study time for maximum impact.
This chart shows a sample student profile, revealing strong algebra skills but clear opportunities for growth in geometry and reading comprehension—insights only a full practice test can provide.
The Advantage of Practice
An all-in-one training ground built specifically to turn HSAT challenges into strengths.
Full-Length Tests
Authentic, timed practice to build endurance and perfect pacing.
Realistic Format
Mirrors the real computer-based HSAT interface. No surprises on test day.
Instant Explanations
Learn from your mistakes with detailed solutions for every question.
Progress Tracking
Watch your scores improve and identify trends with our intuitive dashboard.
Time Analysis
See exactly how long you spend on each question to master your timing.
Get Prepared!
Your journey to a top Chicago high school begins with the right preparation.