Scores from the HSAT may be included as a component of a student's GoCPS application for eligibility and admission to both choice and selective enrollment high school programs (check individual programs for details). As in previous years, High School selections for applicable points-based programs will be determined by 50% grades and 50% test scores. Further details on how the test points will be calculated under the PreACT 9 Secure format will be shared near the start of the 2026–27 school year.
How It Works
All GoCPS applicants applying to 9th grade take the HSAT in 8th grade.
- Current CPS Students (including charters): The test will be scheduled and administered at your school during a regular school day.
- Non-CPS Students: Must create an account and register for the test on the GoCPS application and choose the date and location. (Students must be actively seeking a GoCPS program in order to take the test.)
- PreACT 9 Secure has designated windows for testing, and CPS is not able to offer any testing outside of the designated window. Therefore, non-CPS students MUST sign up for testing in October through the GoCPS application. The deadline to sign up for testing will be 10 business days prior to the designated test date.
The test takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete. Students can only take the test one time: no retakes are allowed.
HSAT Test Preparation
While the district does not sponsor or recommend specific commercial test preparation, with the HSAT changing to the PreACT 9 Secure, a widely used test, families have much greater clarity and a clearer understanding of what to expect on test day compared to prior years. Free preparation resources are available on the Preparing for PreACT 9 Secure ACT website.
Students with Disabilities
Students who qualify for DLM-AA are not required to test but may opt to participate.
Students with IEP’s or 504’s that require the student to get testing accommodations should verify that such accommodations are in place prior to the testing session. IEP’s must be current as of one year to the testing session for a student to receive accommodations. For questions regarding testing accommodations, contact the Testing Team at gocpstestingteam@cps.edu.
Non-CPS Families Please Note: In order for allowable testing accommodations to be provided, a student's IEP or 504 Plan must be current and within one year of the test date. Families should contact the Private School Evaluation Team (privateschoolevals@cps.edu) before the application period opens to ensure their child's plan is up to date. Due to the limited flexibility within the testing schedule, we strongly encourage families to address any needed updates as early as possible so that accommodations can be reviewed and considered prior to testing. For questions regarding testing accommodations, contact the Testing Team at gocpstestingteam@cps.edu.
Additional Admission Screenings
A handful of GoCPS Choice high school programs require auditions or portfolio reviews to be considered. All this information can be found on the school’s profile page and the GoCPS application. Schedule the screening appointment when the GoCPS application is completed.
If a student does not participate in the required admissions process, they will not be considered in the selection process for that school/program.
