New York City High School Admissions 2023-2024
Parents in New York know that there are a few periods in their child’s education when they have to make big decisions. Childcare is usually the first education challenge many parents first deal with. Then comes pre-k, perhaps a mid-season school change, Kindergarten, and if lucky, we will have a bit of a break during the elementary school years until Middle School has to be tackled.
When it comes to high school, our kids’ choices are pretty vast. Your child may have had an education primarily in public school, but now that you know more of your child’s strengths or what type of school you are looking for, you may decide to go private, charter, or stay the public school route. Here is the best part. Yes, we are looking at the bright side of this intense process. There are many options. Yes, picking the right high school is a huge decision- and frankly, it is up there with college admission stress which is why we have broken down how the High School Admission process works, in hopes it helps you when applying for High Schools.
Breaking Down the High School Application Process
Last month, more than one million students returned to the New York City public schools, the country’s most extensive public school system. Though the year is just beginning, middle school students are already considering the application process for attending a New York City high school. In most school districts, students attend whichever public high school they are zoned to, with the opportunity to apply for a private or charter school if they choose. Because of the massive size of the New York City public school system, all students are required to apply for a high school while in eighth grade (current ninth graders who are not repeating the ninth grade can apply to a new school as well). If a student does not submit an application for high school, they will be offered admission to the closest program with available room. While the process can feel daunting, this guide to all things New York City high schools can be a tool to navigating this system.
Psst..check out New York Family Presents: 2022-2023 ParentEd Talks led by Experts in Parenting
Types of High Schools
There are four main types of high schools in New York City: public schools, private schools, religious/parochial schools, and nine Specialized High Schools. Any student who resides in New York City can apply to attend any charter, private, or Specialized School, or to a public school in their district zone, using a ranking system that lists up 12 schools or programs of interest in order of preference. Public, private, and charter schools admit students based on criteria that vary from school to school. These criteria can include middle school grades, income level, learning English as a second language, geographical proximity to a school, and position within a priority group. Who qualifies for which priority groups also varies between schools. Likewise, every program has a set number of seats available for students with disabilities (abbreviated as SWD) and for general education students (GE), and this number is noted when checking a school’s eligibility criteria.
There are nine specialized high schools in the city that cater to different strengths and needs. They are The Bronx High School of Science; The Brooklyn Latin School; Brooklyn Technical High School; High School for Math, Science, and Engineering at City College; High School for American Studies at Lehman College; Queens High School for the Sciences at York College; Staten Island Technical High School; Stuyvesant High School; and Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts. To be considered for the one of the first eight schools, students must take the Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT). For admittance to LaGuardia, students are considered based on an audition for one of the school’s six programs.
Timeline
Regardless of what type of school a student is applying to, there is a timeline of necessary steps to take to achieve an offer letter from a school.
If a student wants to apply to a Specialized High School, they must register and sit for the Specialized High School Admission Test, or prepare and submit an audition. Historically, the SHSAT has been administered in October. Still, due to ongoing complications from the COVID-19 pandemic, dates are subject to change, so it’s essential to stay up to date with news from the Department of Education.’
By wintertime, students can begin submitting applications through MySchools, a school counselor, or a NYC DOE-sponsored Family Welcome Center. For the school year beginning in fall of 2022, high school applications were due by the 1st of March. In April or May, before the end of the school year, schools make offers of admissions to accepted students and place some students on their waitlists. (The Specialized High Schools do not have waitlists.) Once waitlists are open, any student can add their name to the list, but admission priority is given to waitlisted students who placed the school on their original application ranking. If a student is unhappy with the placement they are given, they can appeal the decision or wait to see if they are offered a seat off of any waitlists. Once a student accepts a spot at a program, they are ready to begin their high school journey and prepare for the school year ahead.
Private High Schools Admissions
For Private Schools, most deadlines are in mid-January, but each school is unique; most Catholic Schools open Admissions on December 1st. Luckily New York offers excellent private schools, many of which provide financial aid, and we strongly recommend looking into this route. If you are interested in going the private route, once you have an idea of the school you’re interested in, contact this school immediately or go to their website for school tours or any informational opportunities that will help you make your decisions.
Take a deep breath. Since picking a high school in New York City can be just as complicated as applying to college, the process can be stressful and overwhelming for students and parents. Beginning research early, staying in contact with eighth-grade counselors, and utilizing MySchools(if going the public school route) are all steps to clarify the path to high school.
Brooklyn
350 E. 56th Street
212 688-1545
Founded in 1905, Cathedral High School is an all-girls Catholic College Preparatory school located in the heart of Manhattan. It is a community of students, teachers, staff, parents and alumnae committed to inspiring young women of all faiths and cultures to be their best. 100% of the students graduate and are accepted in the college or university of their choice.
Williamsburg Charter High School
198 Varet St., Brooklyn, NY
347-217-6995
thewcs.org
The Williamsburg Charter High School unites youth, families, staff, teachers and the community at large in providing young people with the tools necessary to make sense of the world, preparing them in their journey to become citizens of the local and global community. Young people accomplish this through participation in a liberal arts education that includes language, literature, writing, science, history, mathematics, the visual and performing arts, technology and explorations in disciplines designed to teach justice, independent thinking, respect and compassion for themselves and others as well as the skills of critical thinking, communication and research.
Bronx
AECI 1 – NYC Charter High School for Architecture, Engineering & Construction Industries
646 Brook Avenue, Bronx
646-400-5566
AECI offers an academic program that provides students with the necessary skills, knowledge and practical experience to pursue college and/or career in architecture, engineering or construction industries. The school offers a rigorous college preparatory program to prepare students for success in industry-recognized exams. All students receive double periods of math, and ELA in freshman year to prepare for success. Staff members work to develop the whole child by supporting all academic, emotional and social development.
AECI 2 – New York Charter High School for Computer Engineering & Innovation
424 E. 138th St., Bronx
646-741-7470
The mission at AECI2 is to create a rigorous college-prep program with the necessary skills, knowledge and practical experience to pursue college and/or a career in computer, engineering or innovation industries. AECI2 emphasizes science and math, effective communication and critical thinking skills through a standards-based curriculum while offering classes like Intro to Computer Science, Coding, Circuit Design and 3-D Printing. They also have sports teams, after-school activities and student clubs.
1 Cardinal Spellman Place, Bronx NY
718-881-8000 x206
cardinalspellman.org
admissions@cardinalspellman.org
Cardinal Spellman HS, a co-educational college preparatory school, offers College Credit, Advanced Placement, Regents, Honors, and Elective Courses. Located on a 13-acre campus with all-weather athletic fields and track, fitness room, weight room, and auditorium with professional stage and seating. Priding itself on small school friendliness with big school opportunities, Spellman graduating class earns over $48 million in scholarships.
350 E. 56th Street
212 688-1545
cathedralhs.org
Founded in 1905, Cathedral High School is an all-girls Catholic College Preparatory school located in the heart of Manhattan. It is a community of students, teachers, staff, parents and alumnae committed to inspiring young women of all faiths and cultures to be their best. 100% of the students graduate and are accepted in the college or university of their choice.
425 East 240th Street, Bronx
718-325-8800 x20
Saint Barnabas High School, an all-girls college preparatory school in the Woodlawn section of the Bronx, offers AP/Honors, College Credits and Regents, internships, sports and clubs. Schedule a Shadow Day – Contact: G.Nieves at 718-325-8800 x20 / email gnieves@stbarnabashigh.com
2250 Williamsbridge Road, Bronx
718-882-2882
St. Catharine Academy has been preparing young women in the Mercy tradition for college success, leadership, and engagement in the world since 1889. They offer a rigorous academic curriculum, including Advancement Placement Courses, Regents Courses, and Academic Honors. With pride they report that their graduates have earned over $130 million in college academic scholarships and grants since 2014.The school welcomes young women of all faiths and backgrounds.
1725 Castle Hill Avenue, Bronx
718-824-4220
St. Raymond Academy, a Catholic high school for young women in an urban setting, inspires students to reach their God-given potential in a safe, supportive and diverse environment. With a state-approved curriculum and extracurricular activities, they encourage students to seek value and truth. With an education of excellence, self-discipline, and Christian values, they challenge students to become successful and accountable in a dynamic society.
125 E. Birch Street, Mt. Vernon NY
914-699-7090
The Montfort Academy is a classical curriculum co-educational Catholic high school focused on the students’ mind, body and soul. Montfort challenges students to think deeply and speak confidently. Extensive club offerings, 15 athletic teams and AP courses. 30% of class accepted into the top 1% of colleges. Rated A+ by Niche.
2780 Schurz Ave., Bronx, NY
718-863-9134
Preston High School has a longstanding tradition of academic excellence and commitment to empowering young women to become compassionate leaders for change. Offering a broad and challenging curriculum- Preston High School supports a diverse, faith-centered community and a commitment to Christian service. Their goal is to help students become women of dignity, honor, respect and compassion.
Long Island
270 Duck Pond Rd, Locust Valley, NY 11560
516-676-0393
Friends Academy is the #1 ranked College Prep High School on Long Island. Their rigorous academic program and Quaker values help students become thoughtful, collaborative, and dynamic leaders. Friends Academy graduates possess the critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and resilience that prepare them to excel at premier colleges and in life.
541 Long Beach Road
St. James NY 11780
631.686.1600
admissions@knoxschool.org
The Knox School is Long Island’s oldest established private school. An inclusive environment provides students with a broad world perspective and a wide range of skills to prepare them for success after high school. A Knox education unlocks every student’s potential.
17621 Wexford Terrace
Jamaica Estates, Queens 11432
718 297-2120
Founded in 1936 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood, The Mary Louis Academy is a Catholic college preparatory school for young women. Their philosophy – rooted in the Sisters’ charism of unity, reconciliation, and all-inclusive love – emphasizes intellectual, personal, and spiritual growth in students from all faith traditions. With limitless possibilities in all aspects – academics, athletics, service, just to name a few – it is clear that TMLA is a smart choice for extraordinary girls.
225 Cambridge Avenue
Garden City, NY 11530
516.742.3434
Admissions@waldorfgarden.org
The Waldorf School of Garden City, accredited by NYSAIS, educates nursery through 12th grade children to meet the world with purpose, gratitude, and respect. Their curriculum makes classical education relevant by integrating the arts and outdoor education, creating an educational experience that not just studies the world, but studies within it.
Winston Preparatory School Long Island – A Place to Be Understood
30 Deforest Road, Dix Hills, NY 11746
631-779-2400
winstonprep.edu/our-campuses/long-island
Winston Preparatory School is a leading national private school network for students with learning disabilities, including dyslexia, ADHD and nonverbal learning disorders (NVLD). Winston Prep Long demonstrates that every student is able to learn. High school graduation rates at Winston Prep are 99%, whereas over 18% of students in the nation with learning disabilities drop out of school. In terms of postsecondary education, 80% of Winston graduates enroll in college, versus 33% nationwide. Winston Transitions also provides a program to high school graduates who are quite not ready for college or the workplace.
Manhattan
84 Alford Rd. Great Barrington, MA 01230
413-528-7228
admit@simons-rock.edu
Bard College at Simon’s Rock is the only four-year residential college designed for students ready to start college after the 10th or 11th grade. Simon’s Rock is ranked No. 4 for the most innovative
school and No. 5 for best undergraduate teaching by U.S. News & World Report.
205 Bidwell Parkway, Buffalo NY
716-885-6780
SEM is a leader in girls’ education, distinguished by more than 170 years of excellence and innovation. Today, SEM inspires young women from around the globe to join with those from Western New York to create a community dedicated to preparing students to emerge from their high school experience as leaders, proud to shape society rather than be controlled or defined by it. SEM students learn to live and lead with energy, confidence, honor, and courage.
350 E. 56th Street
212 688-1545
Founded in 1905, Cathedral High School is an all-girls Catholic College Preparatory school located in the heart of Manhattan. It is a community of students, teachers, staff, parents and alumnae committed to inspiring young women of all faiths and cultures to be their best. 100% of the students graduate and are accepted in the college or university of their choice.
1 Cardinal Spellman Place, Bronx NY
718-881-8000 x206
admissions@cardinalspellman.org
Cardinal Spellman HS, a co-educational college preparatory school, offers College Credit, Advanced Placement, Regents, Honors, and Elective Courses. Located on a 13-acre campus with all-weather athletic fields and track, fitness room, weight room, and auditorium with professional stage and seating. Priding itself on small school friendliness with big school opportunities, Spellman graduating class earns over $48 million in scholarships.
18 West 89th Street
Main Campus: 212-724-3630
An internationally renowned independent school (nursery-grade 12) committed to educating the next generation of global leaders. Regardless where in the world students attend Dwight, they are inspired to find their passions and receive the same high-quality IB education.
Dwight provides benefits and countless opportunities. Travel and exchange programs, cross-campus curricular and creative collaborations, online learning programs, international athletic competitions, and global leadership conferences all foster the development of global citizens.
EF Academy International High School
New York Campus (Grade 9-12)
582 Columbus Ave, Thornwood, NY 10594
EF Academy is an international high school, offering day and boarding options for grades 9-12. Students live and learn with peers from 60+ nationalities and are offered pathways
in the US High School Diploma and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programs. Through diversified instruction, we empower the next generation of Global Changemakers.
German International School New York (GISNY)
50 Partridge Road, White Plains, NY 10605
admissions@gisny.org
914- 948-6513
For over 40 years, GISNY, an independent, bilingual Pre-K through Grade 12 college preparatory program, has cultivated students to develop into curious, analytical, and conscientious global citizens. GISNY is the only school in the tri-state area where graduates earn the NYS High School Diploma and the German International Abitur. No German is required for entering Pre-K or Kindergarten children. All nationalities are welcome!
314 West 91st Street, NY
212-769-1699
A small school that’s BIG on inclusion! The IDEAL School of Manhattan is NYC’s only K-12+ independent inclusion school. At IDEAL, they believe that differentiated learning is the key to academic excellence. They offer a supportive environment where all children are valued and celebrated. Contact admissions@theidealschool.org to learn more about their unique inclusion program.
541 Long Beach Road
St. James NY 11780
631.686.1600
admissions@knoxschool.org
The Knox School is Long Island’s oldest established private school. An inclusive environment provides students with a broad world perspective and a wide range of skills to prepare them for success after high school. A Knox education unlocks every student’s potential.
21-21 Crescent St., Astoria, NY
718-721-7200
Paving the way for Leaders of Tomorrow for over 150 years, the school is dedicated to promoting academic excellence and to instill the principles and values of the Catholic Faith in a positive, nurturing environment. A rigorous academic curriculum, an engaging spiritual program, meaningful service experiences, and extensive extracurricular opportunities establish a strong foundation for life. Advanced Placement courses are offered in all subject areas. St. John’s Prep has an academic affiliation with St. John’s University.
Queens
83-53 Manton St., Briarwood
718-441-2100 x155, x140, x110
Email admissions@molloyhs.org
Archbishop Molloy High School promotes intellectual curiosity, creativity, personal growth, and faith. Rooted in a tradition of high standards in academics, athletics, and service to others, students are challenged to excel by Molloy’s top-tier faculty, dedicated coaching staff, and competitive curriculum.
350 E. 56th Street
212 688-1545
Founded in 1905, Cathedral High School is an all-girls Catholic College Preparatory school located in the heart of Manhattan. It is a community of students, teachers, staff, parents and alumnae committed to inspiring young women of all faiths and cultures to be their best. 100% of the students graduate and are accepted in the college or university of their choice.
33-16 79th Street
Jackson Heights, NY 11372
718- 335-6363
admissions@gardenschool.org
Founded in 1923 to meet the need for a high-quality independent school education in Queens.Their low tuition makes it a realistic option for a broad spectrum of families. The student body reflects the rich and diverse Queens community. Families have put their trust in Garden School for 100 years.
26-20 Francis Lewis Blvd., Flushing, NY
718-886-7250, ext. 524
admissions@holycrosshs.org
Holy Cross High School, a Catholic college preparatory school in Queens, educates the hearts and minds of young men and women following the educational and spiritual vision of Blessed Father Basil Moreau, founder of the Congregation of Holy Cross. Graduates have a competitive edge in regards to scholarships and programs when applying to these colleges, as these schools are aware of the quality education students receive at Holy Cross.
60-02 Maspeth Ave, Queens NY 11378
A Christian school that has prepared students for over 62 years in NYC for success in college and in life. Here, your child will learn and grow in a small, safe and nurturing place where dedicated teachers give individualized attention and teach respect for each other’s diversity. The teaching style is student-centered and experiential to foster well-developed critical thinking skills. Their service requirement helps cultivate good character and civic responsibility. Students are encouraged to try the wide range of extracurricular opportunities in athletics and in the fine arts offered as the school launches a new partnership with Apple called 1:1 iPad Learning.
17621 Wexford Terrace
Jamaica Estates, Queens 11432
718 297-2120
Founded in 1936 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood, The Mary Louis Academy is a Catholic college preparatory school for young women. Their philosophy – rooted in the Sisters’ charism of unity, reconciliation, and all-inclusive love – emphasizes intellectual, personal, and spiritual growth in students from all faith traditions. With limitless possibilities in all aspects – academics, athletics, service, just to name a few – it is clear that TMLA is a smart choice for extraordinary girls.
21-21 Crescent St., Astoria, NY
718-721-7200
Paving the way for Leaders of Tomorrow for over 150 years, the school is dedicated to promoting academic excellence and to instill the principles and values of the Catholic Faith in a positive, nurturing environment. A rigorous academic curriculum, an engaging spiritual program, meaningful service experiences, and extensive extracurricular opportunities establish
