SHSAT PrepThe form that is current
There are two 50-question sections on one 180-minute clock, and students choose which section to open first. ELA combines revising and editing with reading comprehension. Math covers ratios, the number system, expressions, equations, inequalities, statistics, probability, and geometry.
The exam includes multiple-choice, fill-in, and technology-enhanced items. It is given on DOE computers at a school or assigned site, not at home. Students do not bring their own device or pick their own testing location.
Navigation
Students must answer before they advance. Math items and stand-alone ELA items cannot be revisited, while inside an ELA passage set students can change answers until they submit that set. After a subject is submitted, that subject is closed. Bookmarking is useful only while a passage set is still open, and it will not park a Math item. That one rule changes pacing more than almost any content change on the exam.
Adaptive item selection, beginning fall 2026
The exam starts around average difficulty and adjusts its score estimate as the student answers. A correct response can lead to a harder next item, and an incorrect response can lead to an easier one. Every student still sees 50 questions per subject on the same standards.
Independent fixed-form practice cannot reproduce that routing. It can still train the content and the habits the routing depends on: make a clean decision, run a short check, and move on. That is why an older paper book can still teach algebra, but it no longer counts as a dress rehearsal.
Confirm before test day
Policies move. Re-read the NYCPS SHSAT page near registration and again near the assigned date. If this page and NYCPS disagree, follow NYCPS. For test-day rules, print the official guide for 2027 admissions rather than a third-party checklist.
Official sources
SHSAT policies and digital testing details can change. Confirm current information with NYC Public Schools:
SHSAT Prep is an independent practice product and is not affiliated with NYCPS.
Continue your study plan
Fall 2026 is the first computer-adaptive SHSAT. Every student still answers 50 ELA and 50 Math questions. Difficulty moves with each response.
Next guideWhen You Can Change an SHSAT AnswerOn the digital SHSAT you answer before you advance. Passage sets can be revisited until you submit. Math items cannot. Practice that rule.
Next guideTools on the Digital SHSATThe exam includes highlight, notes, answer eliminator, pencil, line reader, bookmark, and an equation editor. Practice the few you will keep.