SHSAT Exam: What You Need to Know
Content Remains the Same
The content of the SHSAT exam is not changing. Students will still be tested on the same sections: Math and English Language Arts, including reading comprehension and a revising/editing section. The only difference is the format. Instead of recording their answers with pencil and paper, students will now take the test on a computer or tablet.
Planning for the Digital Test Format
Some parents are naturally concerned about how digital testing could affect student performance, especially for students who aren’t used to taking tests on a computer. The digital format could make things a little more intuitive. For example, navigating between sections might be smoother, but it’s important to remember that some students tend to perform a bit worse on digital exams overall.
There are many digital prep tools out there already, but they won’t be a perfect match for the new digital test until March 2025 when the official practice tests come out. So, if your teen’s already studying, it’s good to know that they might not be practicing exactly how the real test will be.
Special Accommodations for Students
If your teen has an IEP or 504 plan that provides accommodations when taking tests, they will still be able to take a paper-and-pencil version of the SHSAT if necessary. This ensures that students with disabilities can access the test in a way that best supports their needs, and they can also opt to take the digital test if that works better for them. So, even with the digital shift, accommodations for those who need them will remain in place.
Conclusion
The SHSAT exam is an important factor in determining admission to top high schools in New York City. With the test going digital, students and parents should be aware of the changes and how they will affect performance. The digital format may present some challenges, but the Department of Education is committed to ensuring that all students have equal access to the test, regardless of their abilities.
FAQs
Q: What’s changing about the SHSAT exam?
A: The format of the exam is changing from pencil and paper to digital, but the content of the test remains the same.
Q: How will the digital test affect student performance?
A: The digital format could make things a little more intuitive, but some students may perform a bit worse on digital exams overall.
Q: When will the official practice tests be available?
A: The official practice tests will be available in March 2025.
Q: What about accommodations for students with disabilities?
A: Students with disabilities can still take a paper-and-pencil version of the test if necessary, and they can also opt to take the digital test if that works better for them.
