Question 1

What are Selective Enrollment High Schools?

Accepted Answer

CPS has 11 selective enrollment high schools which provide academically advanced students with a challenging college preparatory experience. Applicants can apply to up to 6 of these programs. Seats are limited and admission is highly competitive.

The 11 Selective Enrollment High Schools are: Brooks, Hancock, Jones, King, Lane Tech, Lindblom, Northside, South Shore, Walter Payton, Westinghouse, & Whitney Young.

Question 2

How is a student's admission determined for the selective Enrollment High School?

Accepted Answer

For the 2025-2026 school year, the admissions process for the Selective Enrollment High Schools consisted of two 450 point parts (900 total points). 
The two parts were:
7th grade grades in Reading, Math, Science and Social Studies, out of a possible 450 points
CPS High School Admissions Test, out of a possible 450 points

Each school had cut off scores to determine admission. See attached chart.

CPS has not announced requirements yet for the 2026-2027 school year. Many believe admissions will be determined the same way as this past school year.

Question 3

What are some other CPS High School Programs that require the scores from the CPS High School Entrance Exam?

Accepted Answer

Career Technical Education (CTE), International Baccalaureate (IB), Lincoln Park Double Hours Program, and Senn Fine Arts. Refer to GoCPS.edu for more specific details about various programs.

Question 4

When and where will current CPS 8th graders take this test?

Accepted Answer

All CPS 8th graders will take the High School Admissions Test in October at their respective schools during a school day in October. Exact date not released yet.

Non CPS 8th graders interested in attending a CPS High School will take the test on a Saturday in October. Dates yet to be released.

Question 5

Why enroll in Bloom & Wonder's CPS PreACT 9 Secure Prep Class?

Accepted Answer

Don't leave your high school admissions to chance. A focused test prep class gives you the competitive edge for your desired high school.Master the Material: We provide a structured review of all tested subjects, ensuring you grasp key concepts and build a strong foundation for every question type.Strategic Test-Taking: Learn proven test-taking strategies, including time management and efficient problem-solving, to maximize your score potential under pressure.Targeted Practice & Feedback: Get ample practice with authentic test questions and receive personalized feedback to pinpoint weaknesses and track your progress.Boost Confidence & Reduce Anxiety: Familiarize yourself with the test format and question styles through practice, building confidence and reducing exam day jitters.Expert Guidance & Support: Our experienced instructors offer invaluable insights and personalized support, guiding you through the admissions test process.

Question 6

To which CPS high schools have previous test prep students been accepted?

Accepted Answer

Currently, I have former HSAT prep course students enrolled at Walter Payton, Northside College Prep, Lane Tech, Whitney Young, Taft IB Program, and Amundsen IB Program.