Chicago Selective Enrollment High School Preparation
CPS Selective Enrollment Prep for the PreACT 9 Secure
CPS now uses the PreACT 9 Secure as its High School Admissions Test (HSAT). Anya is a Whitney Young graduate, Chicago educator, and test-prep specialist who helps students build the content knowledge, pacing, and composure this one-time exam requires.
Apply for an SEHS ConsultationThe 2026–27 Framework
What CPS Has Confirmed—and What Is Still Pending
For applicable points-based programs, CPS says selections will remain 50% seventh-grade marks and 50% HSAT scores. CPS also says the detailed conversion under the new PreACT 9 Secure format will be released near the start of the school year.
What Preparation Covers
English, Math, Reading, Science—and the Decisions Between Them
Grammar, punctuation, syntax, organization, rhetorical purpose, and fast elimination.
Foundations through grade-level algebra and geometry, modeling, data, and calculator strategy.
Evidence location, main ideas, inference control, vocabulary, and passage pacing.
Graphs, tables, experiments, scientific claims, and conclusions supported by evidence.
Selective Enrollment Schools
Eleven Programs, One Ranked Application
CPS currently lists eleven Selective Enrollment programs. Students may rank up to six, and placement depends on total points, seat availability, ranking order, and assigned tier.