NYC specialized high schools and the scores they require

Compare school profiles, understand score targets, and turn research into a realistic SHSAT preparation plan.

Fall 2026 admissions cutoff scores

The lowest qualifying SHSAT composite score for 9th grade at each school, as published by NYC Public Schools. Cutoffs change every admissions cycle.

SHSAT cutoff scores for fall 2026 admissions, highest first
School2026 cutoff
Stuyvesant High School561
High School for Math, Science and Engineering at City College539
Queens High School for the Sciences at York College531
Bronx High School of Science525
High School of American Studies at Lehman College507
Brooklyn Technical High School506

Source: NYC Public Schools specialized high schools admissions data. Use cutoffs as planning references, not guarantees.

School profiles

Stuyvesant High School

2026 cutoff 561

Known for rigorous STEM culture, demanding academics, and a strong reputation among high-achieving NYC families.

Focus
STEM and academic intensity
Best fit
Students thriving in fast-paced environments

High School for Math, Science and Engineering at City College

2026 cutoff 539

Smaller setting with strong STEM orientation and access to the City College environment.

Focus
Small-school STEM rigor
Best fit
Students who want focus with a smaller community

Queens High School for the Sciences at York College

2026 cutoff 531

A science-centered option with a tighter school community and strong college-minded culture.

Focus
Science and close-knit culture
Best fit
Students wanting rigor in a smaller environment

Bronx High School of Science

2026 cutoff 525

Famous for science, research culture, and a long-standing academic reputation across New York City.

Focus
Science, inquiry, and depth
Best fit
Students drawn to research and analysis

High School of American Studies at Lehman College

2026 cutoff 507

Humanities-oriented among the specialized schools, with strong writing and historical analysis expectations.

Focus
Humanities and writing
Best fit
Students who love reading and discussion

Brooklyn Technical High School

2026 cutoff 506

The largest specialized high school, known for engineering pathways, scale, and diverse technical opportunities.

Focus
Engineering and applied sciences
Best fit
Students wanting breadth and technical tracks

Turn school research into a stronger SHSAT plan

  1. Choose target schools based on fit, not prestige alone.
  2. Set a score target that matches the schools you care about.
  3. Build a tutoring plan around pacing, not panic.

Have target schools in mind?

We can help turn those goals into a pacing plan, skill priorities, and a weekly practice routine.