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Ace Your High School Entrance Exam with

Chicago’s Award-Winning Test Prep

Summer is the best time to prepare for High School Entrance Exams

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The High School Placement Test (HSPT) is essential for admission into many parochial schools like Loyola Academy and St. Ignatius College Prep. Administered in December of the eighth-grade year, this one-time test measures skills in reading, mathematics, and language. We offer personalized in-home sessions, flexible online sessions, and sessions at The House. Preparation timelines range from 6-8 weeks to 10-12 weeks, based on initial diagnostic results, with 60-minute sessions. Our experienced instructors specialize in preparing students for private Catholic schools. Schedule a consultation with Luke to find the best prep plan for your child.

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Overview of High Entrance Exams - HSPT, ISEE, & SSAT

Requirement for admission into many parochial schools, including Loyola Academy and St. Ignatius College Prep.
Administered in December during students' eighth-grade year.
One-time test with results sent directly to schools.

 

Gear-Variant-3For More information on the ISEE or SSAT

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Test Details

  • Standardized test measuring skills of 8th-grade students entering high school.
  • Covers verbal and cognitive areas including reading, mathematics, and language.
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Test Prep Options

  • Home Sessions: Personalized and convenient, conducted at your residence.
  • Online Sessions: Flexible and accessible from anywhere.
  • Group Sessions: Collaborative and structured environment.

HSPT Preparation Timeline

Our HSPT preparation program offers flexible timelines to suit each student's unique needs, based on their diagnostic results. We provide two primary preparation schedules: a 6-8 week program or a 10-12 week program.

6-8 Week Program: This accelerated option is ideal for students who may already have a solid foundation but need focused preparation to refine their skills and strategies for the test.

10-12 Week Program: This extended timeline is designed for students who may need more in-depth review and practice across all test areas, ensuring thorough understanding and readiness.

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Tutoring Expert Today

Our devoted staff of educators and the most impressive and diverse tutors in Chicago (grades K - college) provide the very best in customized educational support in ALL academic subjects. We pride ourselves on providing a personalized experience for each of our students. We get to know what they are working on, but also what they’re passionate about. We create a safe and inspiring space for not only improving academic performance, but also their quality of life. Contact us today for a customized plan designed to support your student.

Fill out the form or call: (847) 416-4500

 

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Why Choose Us?

Why Choose The House for Test Prep?

Our award-winning test prep program is designed to help students of all abilities achieve their optimal performance. We provide free diagnostic exams to determine where students need the most support, and then our specialized test prep tutors focus on mastery and strategy. Let our experts take the stress out of SAT and ACT test prep for your student and the whole family.

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Expert Guidance

Expert Test Prep
Unlike Anything Else

Expert Guidance: Our instructors are not just teachers; they're mentors who've been in your shoes and know exactly what it takes to excel at the ACT. They're here to share their insights and strategies, making your journey to a top score smoother and more achievable. They also save you valuable time, by helping students target the areas where the most support is needed, to minimize study time and maximize results.

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Understanding the High School Placement Test (HSPT): A Guide for Parents

Choosing the right high school for your child is a significant decision, and the High School Placement Test (HSPT) often plays a crucial role in this process. As a parent, you might have questions about the HSPT, whether your child needs to take it, and how to navigate the testing process. The House is here to provide you with comprehensive answers to help you make informed decisions.

What is the HSPT?

Originally developed by the Scholastic Testing Service, Inc. (STS), the HSPT evaluates students' academic abilities and readiness for high school-level coursework. The test is comprised of five main areas:

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Verbal Skills: This portion of the test includes identifying and comparing antonyms, synonyms, understanding analogies, and verbal classification

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Quantitative Skills: This section of the HSPT includes geometric comparisons and number manipulations

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Reading Comprehension: During this part of the exam, students will interpret and demonstrate understanding of selected reading passages

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Mathematics: This section includes arithmetic, algebra, and problem-solving

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Language Skills: Here, students demonstrate understanding of grammar, punctuation, spelling, and composition

Does My Student Need to Take the HSPT?

Eighth-grade students aiming to attend private high schools typically take the HSPT. Secular private, Catholic, Jewish, and boarding schools in the Chicago area all include the HSPT in their admissions process.

Many private schools offer scholarships where HSPT scores are considered in the selection process. Additionally, some local community-based scholarships provided by organizations or foundations may also factor in HSPT scores, especially if the scholarships are linked to private school admissions. Always check the specific requirements for each scholarship to ensure you meet all criteria.

Whether your child needs to take the HSPT depends on the admission requirements of the schools they are applying to. Most private high schools use the HSPT to assess incoming students and place them in appropriate classes. The HSPT scores can also be a factor in awarding scholarships and financial aid. If your child is applying to private schools, taking the HSPT is likely necessary.

Where Can My Student Take the HSPT?

The High School Placement Test (HSPT) is typically administered at the high schools that require it for admission. To find out where and how to sign up, start by contacting the admissions offices of the schools your child is interested in to confirm if they require the HSPT and when they administer it. Many schools also provide information about the HSPT, including test dates and registration details, on their websites. Additionally, if your child is applying to Catholic high schools, diocesan offices often have information about testing locations and dates.

To sign up, follow the instructions provided by the school or diocese. Registration typically involves filling out a form and paying a fee. Some schools offer online registration, while others may require paper forms.

When Can My Student Take the HSPT?

The HSPT is typically administered once a year, either in the fall or early winter, with common testing months being November, December, and January. To determine the optimal test date for your child, consult the admissions offices of the prospective schools for their specific test dates. Additionally, consider application deadlines to ensure the chosen test date allows enough time for scores to be submitted with the application.

The House Tutoring Lounge compiled a list of application deadlines for private schools in the Chicago area. Quickly check the required exam and application date for your student’s first choice schools:

High School Entrance Exams Summary
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How is the HSPT Scored?

The High School Placement Test (HSPT) uses various scoring methods to assess student performance. The raw score counts the total correct answers, which is then converted into a scaled score between 200 and 800 for each section. The composite score combines these scaled scores, also ranging from 200 to 800. Additionally, the National Percentile Rank (NPR) compares a student’s performance to peers nationwide, expressed as a percentile. Finally, the Cognitive Skills Quotient (CSQ) ranges from 55 to 145, reflecting the student's overall cognitive ability.

These scores help schools understand a student's strengths and areas for improvement, aiding in placement decisions and scholarship considerations.

How Does a Tutor Help My Student?

Having a tutor to prepare for the HSPT provides valuable support. Here are some of the reasons why hiring a tutor is beneficial:

Personalized Instruction: Tutors can tailor lessons to your student’s specific needs, focusing on areas where they need the most improvement.

Test-Taking Strategies: Experienced tutors teach effective strategies for tackling different types of questions and managing time during the test.

Confidence Building: Regular tutoring sessions can boost your child’s confidence, reducing test anxiety and improving performance.

Accountability and Structure: Tutors provide a structured study schedule and hold students accountable, ensuring consistent preparation.

Expertise: Tutors familiar with the HSPT understand its format and content, providing insights that might not be available through self-study.

The HSPT is a pivotal step for students applying to private high schools. Understanding the test, preparing adequately, and considering the benefits of a tutor can help your student succeed and secure a spot at their desired school. By staying informed and proactive, you can support your student through this important phase of the academic journey.

Want to learn more about The House, and their individualized tutoring services? Simply click here and see how your student can gain confidence, feel prepared, and receive personalized instruction today.

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