High School Admissions Information
High School Admissions
High School Admissions – NYC DOE
Overview
Eighth-grade students in New York City begin the high school admissions process during the fall of their 8th grade year. All students who are NYC residents and either current 8th graders or first-time 9th graders are eligible to apply to high school. New York City offers over 700 high school programs across more than 400 schools with a variety of pathways, including general admissions, specialized programs, arts schools, and more. web
How to Apply
1. High School Application
Students submit a high school application listing up to 12 programs through the MySchools online portal or through their school counselor. Offers are made based on admissions priorities, which vary by program (e.g., open, screened, audition). web
2. Specialized High Schools
Some schools, known as Specialized High Schools, require students to take the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT). The SHSAT is the sole criterion for admission to most of these schools (except LaGuardia High School, which uses an audition process rather than the SHSAT). web+1
Key Admissions Timeline (for Fall 2026 Entry)
Here are the important dates for families applying in the 2025–2026 school year for high school admission in Fall 2026:
- Tuesday, October 7, 2025: High School Application, LaGuardia Application, and SHSAT registration opens.
- Friday, October 31, 2025: SHSAT registration closes.
- Wednesday, December 3, 2025: High School and LaGuardia applications close.
- Thursday, March 5, 2026: Offers released to families. web
Note: Dates may change year to year. Families should check the NYC DOE website or sign up for updates for the most current information. web
Specialized High Schools & SHSAT
- The SHSAT is required to apply to eight of NYC’s Specialized High Schools. Students must register and take the test during the fall. web
- The exam is transitioning to a digital format and will include supports for English Language Learners and students with disabilities. web
- Students indicate their school preferences during SHSAT registration, and offers are based on test scores and preference choices. web
Offers & Next Steps
After applications close, students will receive high school offers in the spring. Families can review offers in MySchools, accept or decline seats, and learn about waitlist options. Each student may receive up to three separate offers from different pathways (general, specialized, LaGuardia). Enrollment Support
Tips for Families
- Attend high school information sessions and open houses to learn about programs. web
- Use MySchools to explore school options, admissions methods, priorities, and transportation information. myschools.nyc
- Work with your school counselor if you need help with applications, SHSAT registration, or accommodations.
