CPS Selective Enrollment Test (HSAT) Prep in Chicago
The CPS Selective Enrollment Test – officially the CPS High School Admission Test (HSAT) – is the exam required for 8th grade students applying to Chicago’s selective enrollment high schools. Redesigned in 2023, the HSAT standardizes the admissions process while measuring student proficiency in math and reading comprehension.
Admission is extremely competitive. Strong grades alone are not enough – students must perform at a very high level on a fast-paced, one-hour exam. Focused preparation improves both speed and accuracy, which are critical to earning a top score.
CPS HSAT Test Structure
Reading Comprehension
~30 questions in 30 minutes assessing inference, analysis, main ideas, and author’s craft across literary and informational passages.
Mathematics
~30–40 questions in 30 minutes focused on arithmetic, algebra, geometry, probability, and number reasoning without calculators.
The HSAT contributes 50% of the total admissions score, with the other 50% coming from seventh grade grades. Competitive selective enrollment schools often require near-perfect totals, meaning even a few missed questions can impact admission.
Students should train under timed conditions and practice high-level reasoning problems to build endurance, confidence, and precision.
Chitown Tutoring provides targeted CPS HSAT preparation using diagnostics, timed drills, and personalized instruction. Our tutors focus on strategy, pacing, and mastery of tested skills so students can compete for top-tier selective enrollment seats.
Preparation works best when started early. Students who practice consistently develop the speed and accuracy required to stand out in a highly competitive pool.