South Shore International College Prep: Discover What Makes This Selective Enrollment High School Special

Leading up to the PreACT 9, Test Prep Chicago will feature all eleven CPS selective enrollment high schools and some top AP, IB, and Honors high school programs in Chicago, breaking down each program and what makes them unique on our blog. This week, we're spotlighting South Shore International College Prep High School.

South Shore International College Prep High School is one of Chicago's selective enrollment high schools. Located in the South Shore neighborhood, South Shore is recognized for its rigorous academics, internationally focused curriculum, and commitment to preparing students for success in college and beyond. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, South Shore provides a challenging learning environment where students are encouraged to become critical thinkers, effective communicators, and engaged global citizens. 

Students at South Shore participate in a rigorous college prep curriculum built around the IB framework. During their freshman and sophomore years, students complete the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), which emphasizes inquiry-based learning, interdisciplinary thinking, and the development of strong research and communication skills. As juniors and seniors, students have the opportunity to pursue either the IB Diploma Programme or the IB Career-related Programme, both of which are internationally recognized for their academic rigor and emphasis on critical thinking, writing, and real-world application. Additionally, students in the IB Middle Years Programme complete the Personal Project, an independent research project, allowing them to explore a topic of personal interest. Students pursuing the full IB Diploma also complete the Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) requirements. 

Beyond the classroom, students can participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including academic clubs, student organizations, performing arts groups, community service opportunities, and athletics. As a result of its diverse extracurricular opportunities and rigorous academic and IB programs, South Shore attracts motivated students with diverse interests and aspirations. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves academically while developing the skills needed to succeed after graduation.

Admission to South Shore is competitive and based on seventh-grade core grades and the new PreACT 9. If your student is interested in attending South Shore or another selective enrollment high school, Test Prep Chicago can help your student prepare for the new PreACT 9, helping them develop the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to succeed. As a licensed participant in the NTPA ACT Affiliate Tutor Program, we had been aware of the change from the CPS HSAT to the PreACT 9, and our team had already begun creating new PreACT 9 Secure curriculum. As such, students enrolled or looking to enroll in any courses or one-day workshops, or students beginning individual tutoring, can be assured that the content and test-taking strategies they are being taught will reflect the content seen on the new exam. All of our scheduled courses (sign up here) and one-day Palooza workshops (sign up here) will continue to run as planned, as will our individual tutoring sessions (sign up here), with the new PreACT 9 Secure content and test-taking strategies instead of the old CPS HSAT curriculum. Sign up now to help your student prepare!

Learn More About Hancock College Prep: What Makes this Selective Enrollment High School Unique?

Leading up to the PreACT 9, Test Prep Chicago will be featuring all eleven CPS selective enrollment high schools and some top AP, IB, and Honors high school programs in Chicago, breaking down each program and what makes them unique on our blog. This week, we're spotlighting Hancock College Preparatory High School.

Hancock College Preparatory High School is one of Chicago's selective enrollment high schools. Located in the Clearing neighborhood on Chicago's south side, Hancock is recognized for its rigorous academics, strong college preparatory curriculum, and commitment to helping students succeed in college and beyond. The school provides a supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to challenge themselves academically while developing the skills needed for future success.

Students at Hancock have access to a wide selection of Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, including participation in the AP Capstone Diploma Program, allowing them to engage in college-level coursework across a variety of subject areas. In addition to its AP offerings, Hancock provides Dual Credit and Dual Enrollment opportunities through City Colleges of Chicago, giving students the chance to earn college credit while still in high school. The school also offers courses in STEM, world languages, fine arts, and a variety of electives that allow students to explore their academic interests. Beyond the classroom, students can participate in numerous extracurricular activities, including academic clubs, student organizations, performing arts, and IHSA athletics, giving them opportunities to develop leadership skills, collaborate with peers, and pursue their passions.

One of Hancock's distinctive academic opportunities is its participation in Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS), a nationally recognized program that allows students to work on engineering and design projects that address real-world needs in their communities. Combined with its challenging coursework and college-focused curriculum, these experiences help prepare students for a wide range of future academic and career pathways.

Hancock attracts motivated students with diverse interests and aspirations, from future engineers, scientists, healthcare professionals, and educators to artists, entrepreneurs, and business leaders. The school's emphasis on academic excellence, critical thinking, and college readiness creates an environment where students are encouraged to reach their full potential while preparing for success after graduation.

Admission to Hancock is competitive and based on seventh-grade core grades and the new PreACT 9. If your student is interested in attending Hancock or another selective enrollment high school, Test Prep Chicago can help your student prepare for the new PreACT 9, helping them develop the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to succeed. As a licensed participant in the NTPA ACT Affiliate Tutor Program, we had been aware of the change from the CPS HSAT to the PreACT 9, and our team had already begun creating new PreACT 9 Secure curriculum. As such, students enrolled or looking to enroll in any courses or one-day workshops, or students beginning individual tutoring, can be assured that the content and test-taking strategies they are being taught will reflect the content seen on the new exam. All of our scheduled courses (sign up here) and one-day Palooza workshops (sign up here) will continue to run as planned, as will our individual tutoring sessions (sign up here), with the new PreACT 9 Secure content and test-taking strategies instead of the old CPS HSAT curriculum. Sign up now to help your student prepare!

Spotlight on Westinghouse: Learn More about the Selective Enrollment High School in Chicago!

Leading up to the PreACT 9, Test Prep Chicago will be featuring all eleven CPS selective enrollment high schools and some top AP, IB, and Honors high school programs in Chicago, breaking down each program and what makes them unique on our blog. This week, we’re spotlighting George Westinghouse College Prep.

Westinghouse College Prep is one of Chicago’s selective enrollment high schools, located in the East Garfield Park neighborhood. Westinghouse offers a rigorous college-preparatory experience designed to challenge academically motivated students while providing opportunities to explore career interests and develop skills beyond the classroom. The school is distinctive in that it serves students through both its selective enrollment program and its Career Academy, creating a diverse school community with a strong emphasis on academic achievement, college readiness, and career preparation.

Academically, Westinghouse gives students extensive opportunities to take advanced coursework. The school offers a wide range of AP courses, providing students with the chance to pursue college-level material across a variety of subjects. Its advanced offerings include courses in subjects such as U.S. History and Computer Science, giving students opportunities to explore both traditional academic disciplines and STEM fields. These rigorous courses help students develop the analytical, writing, and problem-solving skills needed to succeed in college.

Westinghouse also stands out for the breadth of its extracurricular and career-focused opportunities. Students can participate in academic organizations such as debate, science and technology clubs, as well as creative programs including band, theater, art, photography, and other performing and visual arts opportunities. Athletics provide another avenue for students to get involved, with offerings including basketball, football, soccer, volleyball, baseball, swimming, cross country, track, wrestling, and softball. These activities give students opportunities to build leadership skills, collaborate with their peers, and pursue interests outside of their academic coursework.

For students interested in career exploration, Westinghouse offers particularly strong opportunities through its Career Academy and career-focused programming. The school combines college preparation with opportunities to explore technology, computer science, and other career-related fields, making it an appealing option for students who want to connect their academic studies with potential future careers. At the same time, Westinghouse emphasizes a rigorous curriculum and the support students need to succeed.

Westinghouse attracts students with a wide range of interests and aspirations, from future computer scientists, engineers, and business professionals to artists, athletes, writers, and community leaders. Its combination of selective enrollment academics, advanced coursework, career-focused programming, extracurricular activities, and student support creates an environment where students can challenge themselves while exploring the interests that will shape their futures. For families considering Chicago’s selective enrollment options, Westinghouse is especially noteworthy for the way it brings rigorous college preparation and career exploration together under one roof.

Admission to Westinghouse is competitive and based on seventh-grade core grades and the new PreACT 9. If your student is interested in attending Westinghouse or another selective enrollment high school, Test Prep Chicago can help your student prepare for the new PreACT 9, helping them develop the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to succeed. As a licensed participant in the NTPA ACT Affiliate Tutor Program, we had been aware of the change from the CPS HSAT to the PreACT 9, and our team had already begun creating new PreACT 9 Secure curriculum. As such, students enrolled or looking to enroll in any courses or one-day workshops, or students beginning individual tutoring, can be assured that the content and test-taking strategies they are being taught will reflect the content seen on the new exam. All of our scheduled courses (sign up here) and one-day Palooza workshops (sign up here) will continue to run as planned, as will our individual tutoring sessions (sign up here), with the new PreACT 9 Secure content and test-taking strategies instead of the old CPS HSAT curriculum. Sign up now to help your student prepare!

Spotlight on Brooks College Prep: What Makes this CPS Selective Enrollment High School Unique?

Leading up to the PreACT 9, Test Prep Chicago will be featuring all eleven CPS selective enrollment high schools and some top AP, IB, and Honors high school programs in Chicago, breaking down each program and what makes them unique on our blog. This week, we’re spotlighting Brooks College Prep.

Gwendolyn Brooks College Preparatory Academy is one of Chicago's selective enrollment high schools. The school is known for its strong academics, diverse student body, and commitment to preparing students for success in college and beyond. Located on the south side of Chicago in the West Roseland neighborhood, Brooks offers a challenging curriculum in a supportive environment where students are encouraged to grow as students, leaders, and members of their community.

Students have access to a wide variety of Honors and AP courses, as well as extracurricular activities that include athletics, fine arts, student organizations, and academic competitions. Brooks emphasizes both academic achievement and personal development, giving students opportunities to explore their interests while building the skills needed for college-level work. This makes Brooks an excellent choice for students seeking a rigorous education within a collaborative and welcoming school culture.

Brooks attracts motivated students with a wide range of interests, including future STEM majors, aspiring writers, artists, musicians, athletes, and community leaders. The school's diverse offerings allow students to pursue their passions while benefiting from the high expectations and academic rigor that define Chicago's selective enrollment programs. The school’s strong emphasis on leadership, service, and civic engagement set it apart from other selective enrollment high schools, encouraging students to make an impact both inside and outside the classroom.

Admission to Brooks is competitive and based on seventh-grade core grades and the new PreACT 9. If your student is interested in attending Brooks or another selective enrollment high school, Test Prep Chicago can help your student prepare for the new PreACT 9, helping them develop the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to succeed. As a licensed participant in the NTPA ACT Affiliate Tutor Program, we had been aware of the change from the CPS HSAT to the PreACT 9, and our team had already begun creating new PreACT 9 Secure curriculum. As such, students enrolled or looking to enroll in any courses or one-day workshops, or students beginning individual tutoring, can be assured that the content and test-taking strategies they are being taught will reflect the content seen on the new exam. All of our scheduled courses (sign up here) and one-day Palooza workshops (sign up here) will continue to run as planned, as will our individual tutoring sessions (sign up here), with the new PreACT 9 Secure content and test-taking strategies instead of the old CPS HSAT curriculum. Sign up now to help your student prepare!

How Does the New PreACT 9 Compare to the HSPT and ISEE?

The announcement that Chicago Public Schools has replaced the CPS HSAT with the PreACT 9 for Selective Enrollment High School admissions marks a big change to the city's high school application process. Although all three exams are designed to assess a student's academic readiness for high school, they were created for different school systems and each has its own structure, format, and testing philosophy. Understanding where the exams overlap, and where they differ, can help families prepare more efficiently.

Overall, like the HSPT and ISEE, the PreACT 9 is designed to measure a student's overall academic readiness through multiple sections rather than focusing primarily on math and reading as the old CPS HSAT did. Students will now complete Math, Reading, English, and Science sections over approximately two and a half hours, making the exam much more comparable in length and scope to the HSPT and ISEE.

While the tests have more in common with each other than with the old CPS HSAT, there are still differences in format, structure, and content. The PreACT 9 consists of four sections: Math, Reading, English, and Science. Students complete the exam digitally in approximately two and a half hours, are permitted calculators on the Math section, and receive no guessing penalty. The HSPT is organized somewhat differently, as it includes five multiple-choice sections: Verbal Skills, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading, Math, and Language. The HSPT is administered using paper and pencil, calculators are not allowed, and students receive very little time per question, making pacing one of the biggest challenges on the exam. The ISEE similarrly contains five sections, including Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Math, and an optional essay. Unlike the HSPT, students may take the ISEE once per testing season, giving families more flexibility when scheduling the exam. Schools may administer the ISEE digitally or on paper, but calculators are not permitted.

Despite these structural differences, the exams test many of the same core academic skills. All three include substantial reading comprehension and math components designed to measure middle school academic readiness. Students are expected to analyze passages, solve multi-step math problems, think logically, and work efficiently under timed conditions. Regardless of which exam a student is taking, strong reading, careful reasoning, and solid math knowledge foundations remain essential.

The English and language components illustrate both the similarities and differences among the exams. The HSPT's Language section focuses on grammar, punctuation, capitalization, spelling, and composition through standalone multiple-choice questions. The PreACT 9 also evaluates grammar and writing skills, but it does so through ACT-style editing passages in which students choose the best revisions for sentences and paragraphs. Instead of simply identifying grammar rules, students must consider clarity, organization, style, and rhetorical effectiveness within the context of a longer passage. The ISEE, on the other hand, approaches language somewhat differently. Rather than including a dedicated grammar section, it places greater emphasis on vocabulary through Verbal Reasoning questions involving synonyms and sentence completion. Students with strong vocabularies often have an advantage on the ISEE, while students taking the PreACT 9 may spend more time applying grammar and writing conventions in context.

The reasoning sections also distinguish the exams from one another. Both the HSPT and ISEE include separate quantitative reasoning sections that combine math with logic and pattern recognition. Students encounter number series, comparisons, and reasoning-based problems that extend beyond straightforward math problems and calculations. The PreACT 9 does not include a standalone reasoning section; instead, reasoning is integrated directly into the Math portion of the exam alongside algebra, geometry, functions, statistics, probability, and other grade-level math concepts.

Perhaps the most significant difference is the Science section, which appears only on the PreACT 9. For many families, this initially sounds like the biggest obstacle, but the section is somewhat different from a traditional science test. Students are presented with graphs, tables, experimental results, and scientific scenarios, then asked to interpret data, evaluate investigations, and draw logical conclusions. The emphasis is on scientific reasoning and data analysis rather than memorizing scientific facts, formulas, or vocabulary.

Timing is another important consideration. Although all three exams require students to work efficiently, they do so in different ways. The HSPT is known for its exceptionally fast pacing, with students often having well under a minute, and sometimes only seconds, to answer each question. The ISEE generally provides more time per question for students, while the PreACT 9 falls somewhere in between depending on the section. The English section of the PreACT 9 is particularly fast-paced, while the Math, Reading, and Science sections allow students slightly more time to analyze each problem.

Families should also keep in mind that preparing for one exam does not automatically prepare a student for another. A student applying to CPS selective enrollment high schools and Catholic high schools will likely need to prepare for both the PreACT 9 and the HSPT. Likewise, students applying to independent schools will still need to take the ISEE, even if they are also applying to selective enrollment high schools. However, preparation is far from independent. Improving reading comprehension, strengthening math skills, developing vocabulary, mastering grammar, and learning effective pacing strategies all benefit students across multiple exams.

Overall each exam is designed for a different school system. Students applying to multiple types of schools will need to take more than one exam, which is why it is important for families to understand which test each school requires and what differentiates them before beginning the admissions process. Though there is some overlap in terms of content, preparing for these exams presents different challenges. Test Prep Chicago can help your student prepare for any combination of exams that they plan to take. With the end of the school year just around the corner, now is the right time to get started! Parents can view our 8th-Grade HSEE Prep course offerings for the summer here and our one-day workshops for HSEE Prep here. Students can also sign up for individual tutoring for any combination of HSEEs here.

7 Test-Taking Strategies for Success on the PreACT 9

The PreACT 9 is a new factor for eighth-grade students applying to CPS Selective Enrollment High Schools. While a strong understanding of the academic content is essential, knowing how to approach the test can be just as important. The PreACT 9 is designed to measure what students have learned over time in classroom settings; that said, learning effective test-taking strategies that are specific to the PreACT 9, which are not always taught in schools, can help students demonstrate their knowledge and go into the exam with more confidence. By preparing not only what to study but also how to take this specific test, students can approach exam day with greater confidence.

1. Pace Yourself Throughout the Test

One of the biggest challenges students face is managing time. Every section of the PreACT 9 is timed, and it is easy to spend too long on a difficult question without even realizing it. Instead of trying to solve every problem perfectly on the first attempt, students should keep a steady pace. If a question seems especially challenging, it is often better to make the best possible choice and move forward (making a note to come back to it if there is time at the end) rather than risk running out of time.

This strategy is especially important for all four sections of the PreACT 9 because all four require students to balance accuracy with speed.

2. Read Every Question Carefully

Many students miss a question because they misread it, answering an invented question rather than the one that is actually being asked. Paying close attention to words such as "except," "not," "best," or "most likely" can prevent simple mistakes. Reading every answer choice before making a selection also helps students avoid choosing an option that seems correct before finding a better answer later in the list. It’s important to note that, particularly on the English and Reading sections, there may be two answers that are technically correct, but students should look for the best answer overall.

This strategy is particularly valuable in the English and Reading sections, where careful attention to wording is essential. That said, is also useful in the Math and Science sections when interpreting multi-step problems or analyzing data.

3. Use the Process of Elimination

When sunsure of the correct answer, eliminating choices that are clearly incorrect can greatly improve the odds of selecting the right one. Instead of viewing a difficult question as all or nothing and making a random guess, narrowing the possibilities allows students to make a more informed, educated guess. This strategy is especially effective because the PreACT 9 does not penalize students for incorrect answers, so every question should receive a response (even if it’s a guess).

The process of elimination can be applied to every section of the exam.

4. Answer Every Question

On that note, since there is no penalty for guessing, leaving questions unanswered only reduces the opportunity to earn points. If time is running short or a question seems especially difficult, students should eliminate any obviously incorrect answers and make their best educated guess. Even when confidence is low, a thoughtful guess always provides a better chance of earning points than no answer at all.

This strategy applies to every section of the PreACT 9.

5. Focus on Evidence Instead of Prior Knowledge

Some students assume they already know the answer based on what they have learned in class, but the PreACT 9 is designed to measure how well students can analyze the information provided in the question. Note that no outside information is required to succeed on the PreACT 9; while it may come in handy, relying on it too much can actually hinder rather than help a student. In the Reading section, answers should be supported by the passage rather than personal opinions or outside knowledge. Similarly, the Science section emphasizes interpreting graphs, charts, tables, and experimental results rather than recalling advanced scientific facts.

This strategy is most important in the Reading and Science sections, where the correct answer is usually found by carefully examining the information presented on the page.

6. Stay Calm When You Encounter Difficult Questions

Many students struggle with test anxiety, but even students who don’t will come across questions that seem unfamiliar or especially challenging. Strong test takers understand and can quickly internalize that one difficult question does not determine their overall score. Instead of becoming frustrated, they maintain their focus, continue working through the exam, and return their attention to questions they can answer confidently. Remaining calm helps students think more clearly and avoid mistakes caused by rushing or anxiety. This strategy takes practice, as nervousness around an important exam is nervous; that said, it is possible to help a student develop calming techniques to keep their head in the game.

This strategy benefits students throughout the entire exam and is especially helpful during the Math and Science sections, where difficult questions can sometimes interrupt a student's momentum.

7. Prepare Yourself Before Test Day

Successful testing begins before students ever enter the testing room. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy breakfast, and arriving prepared with any required materials (scratch paper, extra pencils, water, snacks, calculator) can improve concentration and reduce unnecessary stress. Students should also complete practice tests under timed conditions before the exam so they can become comfortable with the pacing and format. Familiarity with the testing experience helps reduce anxiety and allows students to focus on demonstrating what they know.

This preparation supports success across every section of the PreACT 9 and helps students perform at their highest level from the first question to the last.

Test Prep Chicago can help your student prepare for the new PreACT 9, helping them develop the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to succeed. As a licensed participant in the NTPA ACT Affiliate Tutor Program, we had been aware of the change from the CPS HSAT to the PreACT 9, and our team had already begun creating new PreACT 9 Secure curriculum. As such, students enrolled or looking to enroll in any courses or one-day workshops, or students beginning individual tutoring, can be assured that the content and test-taking strategies they are being taught will reflect the content seen on the new exam. All of our scheduled courses (sign up here) and one-day Palooza workshops (sign up here) will continue to run as planned, as will our individual tutoring sessions (sign up here), with the new PreACT 9 Secure content and test-taking strategies instead of the old CPS HSAT curriculum. Sign up now to help your student prepare!

Breaking Down the Four Sections on the PreACT 9

Recently, it was announced that Chicago Public Schools has replaced the CPS HSAT with the PreACT 9 Secure, a nationally recognized assessment that is now being administered to rising Chicago 8th-graders as part of the Selective Enrollment High School admissions process.

The change represents far more than a simple name swap. The PreACT 9 is a fundamentally different type of exam. While the CPS HSAT was built specifically for CPS admissions, the PreACT 9 was created to measure academic readiness and predict future success on the ACT, the college entrance exam many students take during high school. As a result, families are encountering a test that is longer, more comprehensive, and more closely aligned with the skills students will need throughout high school and beyond.

One of the first things families notice about the PreACT 9 is its length. The exam includes four separate sections (English, Math, Reading, and Science) and requires students to maintain concentration for two and a hours. Success on the exam depends not only on academic ability, but also on a student's capacity to stay focused and work efficiently over an extended period of time. Here is a breakdown of each of the sections seen on the PreACT 9:

The English section focuses on grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, usage, and writing effectiveness. Students are presented with passages and asked to identify the best revisions, correct grammatical errors, improve sentence flow, and strengthen organization. Questions frequently require students to understand comma usage, subject-verb agreement, sentence boundaries, transitions, and word choice. Students are tested on writing production (27-33% of questions), language knowledge (12-18% of questions), and English conventions (48-55% of questions), and students are given 35 minutes to answer 44 questions.

The Math section combines computational skills with higher-level reasoning. Students encounter questions involving algebra, geometry, ratios, proportions, statistics, and data analysis. Students must analyze information, interpret graphs, and choose efficient solution strategies while managing strict time limits. Students are tested on the real number system (10-13% of questions), algebra (20-27% of questions), functions (20-27% of questions), geometry (10-13% of questions), and statistics/probability (10-13%), and are given 45 minutes to answer 35 questions.

The Reading section involves reading passages drawn from literature, social studies, humanities, and science before answering questions that assess comprehension and analytical thinking. Rather than focusing solely on straightforward details, many questions require students to infer meaning, identify an author's purpose, evaluate tone, and determine how evidence supports an argument. The challenge lies in balancing speed with accuracy; students must process substantial amounts of information without sacrificing careful analysis. Students are tested on key ideas and details (52-60% of questions), craft and structure (28-36% of questions), and integration of knowledge and ideas (12-16% of questions), and are given 40 minutes to answer 33 questions.

For the Science section, many students enter the test expecting questions that emphasize memorized scientific facts, formulas, or vocabulary. Instead, the Science section is largely an exercise in data interpretation and reasoning. Students are presented with science-oriented reading passages, graphs, charts, experimental results, and research summaries. They must identify trends, evaluate conclusions, compare experimental designs, and draw logical inferences from evidence. In many cases, prior scientific knowledge plays a smaller role than the ability to analyze information quickly and accurately. Students who are comfortable reading tables and scientific passages, as well as interpreting visual data often perform well, even if they do not consider science to be their strongest subject. Students are tested on interpretation of data (23-50%), scientific investigation (15-35% of questions), and evaluation of models, inferences, and experiments (19-38% of questions), and are given 35 minutes to answer 32 questions.

Beyond the test itself, one of the most significant features of the PreACT 9 is the detailed score report students receive afterward. Unlike many admissions exams that provide only a single score, the PreACT 9 offers a comprehensive breakdown of performance across multiple areas. Students receive individual scores for English, Math, Reading, and Science, along with an overall composite score that reflects their performance across the entire assessment. This allows families to see where students excel and where additional support may be needed.

Test Prep Chicago can help your student prepare for the new PreACT 9. Note that Test Prep Chicago is a licensed participant in the NTPA ACT Affiliate Tutor Program. Through our connection, we have been aware that such a change might occur, and our team had already begun creating new PreACT 9 Secure curriculum. As such, students enrolled or looking to enroll in any courses or one-day workshops, or students beginning individual tutoring, can be assured that the content they are being taught will reflect the content seen on the new exam. All of our scheduled courses (sign up here) and one-day Palooza workshops (sign up here) will continue to run as planned, as will our individual tutoring sessions (sign up here), with the new PreACT 9 Secure content instead of the old CPS HSAT curriculum.

CPS Announces “PreACT 9 Secure” as New CPS High School Entrance Exam

Yesterday, CPS announced to school leaders that, beginning this fall, the CPS HSAT test will be replaced by a new exam, the PreACT 9 Secure. This test will be the new exam used for the GoCPS high school admissions process, and will be offered to all 8th-grade students.

Overall, students can expect the following changes when taking the new exam:

• The PreACT 9 Secure is a longer test than the CPS HSAT. The CPS HSAT lasted one hour, while the PreACT 9 Secure will last approximately two and a half hours.

• The PreACT 9 Secure includes 4 sections, while the CPS HSAT only included 2. The CPS HSAT had a 30-minute Math section and a 30-minute Reading section; the PreACT 9 Secure will have a 35-minute ELA section, a 40-minute Reading section, a 45-minute Math section, and a 35-minute Science section.

• The PreACT 9 Secure will only be available in English, though it will still have accommodations for ESL students. The CPS HSAT had been available in multiple languages, but the PreACT 9 Secure will not have this option available.

CPS has cited the following reasons for this adjustment:

• The PreACT 9 Secure provides more information to high school staff on students entering their 9th-grade course. As the PreACT 9 Secure has four sections (Math, Reading, ELA, and Science) and tests more skills than the CPS HSAT, it can be used for more than just admissions, providing high schools with meaningful information on student performance that can lead to course placement and programming decisions.

• The PreACT 9 Secure aligns with the ACT. This will help students gain experience with the structure of the ACT, which they will take later in high school. CPS now administers the ACT to all CPS high school students.

• The PreACT 9 Secure has more publicly available information and content. The CPS HSAT did not have information publicly available regarding length, sections included, and content. The PreACT 9 Secure is a test used across the country, meaning that students will now have more access to information about what to expect on the exam. Additionally, because the exam is widely used, there will be greater access to free or low-cost test prep resources.

• The PreACT 9 Secure is a tested, stable platform. In the past, students encountered multiple issues with the platform used for the CPS HSAT. The PreACT platform has stronger, more stable technology and security.

Note that Test Prep Chicago is a licensed participant in the NTPA ACT Affiliate Tutor Program. Through our connection, we have been aware that such a change might occur, and our team had already begun creating new PreACT 9 Secure curriculum. As such, students enrolled or looking to enroll in any courses or one-day workshops, or students beginning individual tutoring, can be assured that the content they are being taught will reflect the content seen on the new exam. All of our scheduled courses (sign up here) and one-day Palooza workshops (sign up here) will continue to run as planned, as will our individual tutoring sessions (sign up here), with the new PreACT 9 Secure content instead of the old CPS HSAT curriculum.

Content Overview: Algebra I Topics Seen on the Algebra Exit Exam

For students in Chicago Public Schools (CPS) taking Algebra I in middle school, the Algebra Exit Exam is an end-of-course assessment designed to measure mastery of the key algebra skills taught during that year and to help determine readiness for higher-level math in high school. The exam aligns with the district’s Algebra I curriculum and the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, and it draws directly from the critical concepts students encounter in their algebra studies, preparing them for mathematical studies that they will encounter in high school. Succeeding on the Algebra Exit Exam can help students go down accelerated math pathways in high school, and later, in college. Below, we will review the content and structure of what to expect on the Algebra Exit Exam.

The Algebra Exit Exam typically includes around 40 questions that mix multiple-choice items with numeric response problems. Students are given about 120 minutes to complete it. This format requires a strong ability to reason, make educated guesses, and solve problems efficiently and in an organized manner, encouraging students to show not just correct answers but understanding of mathematical processes.

While we don’t know exactly what will be on the test, we expect to see common Algebra topics addressed. This will include things like linear relationships; students need to interpret, represent, and manipulate linear equations and inequalities, solve them using a variety of methods, and connect algebraic expressions to graphs, tables, and real-world contexts. Other common Algebra topics that may be seen on the exam include slope, intercept, translation, functions, systems of equations, inequalities, and quadratic equations. Throughout the Algebra Exit Exam, emphasis is placed on understanding equivalent expressions, manipulating algebraic structures, and using mathematical reasoning to justify solutions. Students also interpret and analyze data, which connects algebraic thinking to real-world problem solving.

It is important to note that the exam, similarly to ones that a student would encounter in-class, assumes that students are confident with expressions and equations. This means students must be comfortable simplifying various expressions, applying the distributive property, combining like terms, and using algebraic reasoning to model and solve problems. These foundational skills support the more complex work with functions and systems.

While TPC’s Algebra Exit Exam prep courses have already begun, we still have one-day Algebra Exit Exam workshops available for enrollment (click here), which involve students taking a practice test based on the real exam, breaking for a pizza lunch provided by us, and reviewing answer explanations and test-taking strategies with a tutor. TPC also has individual tutoring offerings (click here) available for students looking for one-on-one, personalized help on their Algebra Exit Exam prep.

The Algebra Exit Exam: What You Need to Know

Across Chicago Public Schools (CPS), the Algebra Exit Exam is an important benchmark for mostly 8th-grade students taking high school-level Algebra I; the exam, often forgotten next to the High School Entrance Exams and CPS HSAT, plays a meaningful role in determining a student’s readiness for more advanced mathematics in high school. It isn’t a graduation exam or a state-wide requirement, but it is a district assessment given annually in the spring to students enrolled in an approved Algebra I course in 7th or 8th grade. The results help schools decide whether students are prepared for higher-level math like geometry or honors courses when they enter high school, and can result in students “testing out” of certain Algebra courses when they enter their secondary school.

The Algebra Exit Exam is aligned to the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics and the CPS Algebra I curriculum, meaning it assesses the key concepts students are expected to learn in that course. The exam includes a mix of multiple-choice questions and constructed response items that require students not only to solve problems, but also to explain their reasoning. Depending on the specific year and blueprint used, the exam typically features around 37 to 40 questions assessing foundational algebra topics such as expressions, equations, functions, and problem-solving with variables. It is administered online and usually takes about 120 minutes to complete.

Students take the Algebra Exit Exam near the end of the school year, often in late May, while they are enrolled in Algebra I. CPS students take the test at their own school during normal school hours, while non-CPS students who plan to enroll in a CPS high school must register to take the exam at a district-designated location on a weekend date in May. For the upcoming 2026-2027 school year, we anticipate that the exam will take place in late May.

When the exam is scored, students receive a scaled score; the results are classified as pass or did not pass. A score at or above the district’s established “pass” threshold indicates that a student has a generally consistent understanding of algebra skills and is ready to progress to the next level of math coursework. There is also a “high pass” category for students who demonstrate an especially strong and masterful understanding of algebra concepts. Students who earn a pass or high pass can typically enter geometry or honors geometry as freshmen, which positions them for accelerated math pathways throughout high school. This can also lead students to testing out of required Math-related courses when they reach college.

For families and educators, the Algebra Exit Exam serves several purposes. It ensures that students who take Algebra I in middle school have truly mastered the subject before moving forward, supports appropriate placement in high school math sequences, and can open opportunities for more advanced courses like honors geometry or AP mathematics. While the test is only one piece of placement decisions, preparing for it helps students build confidence and strengthens foundational math skills that will benefit them throughout high school and beyond.

Test Prep Chicago is now offering Algebra Exit Exam prep courses (click here). These courses, which run for a total of ten hours, include a Diagnostic and Final exam, a review of material seen on the exam and test-taking strategies, and testing analytics. TPC is also offering one-day Algebra Exit Exam one-day workshops (click here), which involves students taking a practice test based on the real exam, breaking for a pizza lunch provided by us, and reviewing answer explanations and test-taking strategies with a tutor. TPC also has individual tutoring offerings (click here) available for students looking for one-on-one, personalized help on their Algebra Exit Exam prep.