Selectivity of NYC High Schools

Hi there. So, I've heard that getting into some NYC high schools can be really tough. What makes these high schools so selective? Is it just based on academics or are there other factors?

New York City is home to numerous top-ranked high schools that are known for their high standards of education. Hence, gaining admission into these schools can indeed be a competitive process.

The selectivity of NYC high schools is based on a few key factors:

Academic Performance: Primarily, a student's academic performance forms a significant part of the admission decision. This usually means a strong performance in the previous grades typically including high state-wide test scores, good grades, and sometimes performance in various subjects.

Standardized Testing: NYC special high schools such as Bronx Science or Stuyvesant require an exam called the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT). The schools use the scores from this exam to make admission decisions. Only the top scorers are typically offered seats, given the large number of students applying for a limited number of openings.

Other Factors: Depending on the school, there may be other factors considered. Some schools look at attendance records, conduct grades, or even require entrance essays or interviews. Schools for the arts, such as LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, require auditions as part of the application process.

The demand for these schools far exceeds the available seats, which contributes to their selectivity. For example, Brooklyn Technical High School, one of the most sought-after schools, has about 6,000 seats but sees tens of thousands of applicants each year.

Therefore, the key to getting into these selective schools is a combination of strong academic performance, scoring well on necessary standardized tests, and showcasing a well-rounded profile if the school considers factors beyond academics and test scores. It is always crucial to understand the specific criteria of the school you're interested in, as each school might have slightly different requirements.