Secret Standards: How is the SHSAT Graded?
The SHSAT is one heck of a mysterious test. For one, it contains a format completely unique to other standardized tests of its kind. SHSAT prep is often hard to find compared to wider-known tests such as the SAT and ACT. Yet perhaps the greatest challenge is how little we know about the test. Much of the information available to students is based on content alone. Sure, we know what kinds of questions will be asked of us, but how is the SHSAT graded? How will we know if we can get into Stuyvesant or Brooklyn Tech?
Have no fear. Recent information suggests that while the cutoff changes every year, the SHSAT follows a particular formula and score conversion chart. According to a yahoo posting by Leah Yates, students can use the chart below to tabulate their scores:
Count the amount of right answers per each section, and assign point values based on the numbers above. these 2 numbers, one for each section, are referred to as your 'raw score.' (it should be between 1 and 50)
Use this conversion chart for each of your raw scores to see what you would get per section.Number out of 50-test score
1-16
2-30
3-44
4-58
5-72
6-82
7-90
8-98
9-107
10-129
11-138
12-145
13-152
14-158
15-164
16-170
17-175
18-180
19-185
20-190
21-194
22-198
23-202
24-206
25-212
26-214
27-218
28-222
29-226
30-230
31-234
32-238
33-242
34-246
35-250
36-254
37-258
38-262
39-267
40-272
41-277
42-283
43-290
44-298
45-308
46-318
47-328
48-339
49-350
50-400
Add the "test scores" together from each section. this is your final score.
Content provided by: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20101009145654AAh6BOT
After using this chart, students can then compare their scores to the previous year's school admission reports. For example: in 2010, Stuyvesant's cutoff for the SHSAT was a combined raw score of 569. While this may change in 2011, at least students will have a general idea of how high they need to score.
My suggestion is for students to consider having a grade-point cushion. That is, if you are looking to get into Stuyvesant next year, try to score around a 575. This overall goal will take into consideration the increasing competition each year. Generally, it is slightly harder to get into any specialized high school every year. Erring on the side of caution will help you make the all-important decision of stating your top-choice schools on test day.
Think about your practice test scores before sitting down to take the actual test. If you know you've never scored anywhere near Stuyvesant's cutoff, maybe you should consider choosing Bronx Science or Brooklyn Tech as your primary choices. Remember, preparation is the key, and as I said earlier, few companies offer SHSAT tutoring. One that might work well is Five Points Learning in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. Their team of SHSAT tutors are experienced in helping students achieve their highest scores on the exam.
No matter how you choose to get ready for the SHSAT exam, plan ahead and be prepared to study for many long hours. For most students, this is not the type of test that will allow for last minute cramming. Doing so will only lead to a less than optimal score. This highly competitive test requires forethought and intense preparation. Good luck all!