Tutoring
Entrance Exams and Math Competitions
The tests and contests students meet between 6th and 9th grade, with the format, scoring, dates, and fees for 2026-27. Every fact comes from the organization that runs the test.
E3n (formerly ERB)
ISEE
Primary Level 2, Primary Level 3, Primary Level 4. 128 questions in 140 minutes
Format, dates, and fees →E3n (formerly The Enrollment Management Association)
SSAT
Elementary Level, Middle Level, Upper Level. 167 questions in 190 minutes
Format, dates, and fees →New York City Public Schools
SHSAT
Grade 8 test, Grade 9 test. 100 questions in 180 minutes
Format, dates, and fees →Scholastic Testing Service
HSPT
HSPT (Closed or Open form), Pre-HSPT
Format, dates, and fees →College Board
PSAT 8/9
PSAT 8/9. 98 questions in 134 minutes
Format, dates, and fees →ACT
PreACT
PreACT 8/9, PreACT, PreACT 9 Secure. 130 questions in 130 minutes
Format, dates, and fees →Mathematical Association of America
AMC 8
AMC 8
Format, dates, and fees →MATHCOUNTS Foundation
MATHCOUNTS
School Competition, Chapter Competition, State Competition. 180 minutes
Format, dates, and fees →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the ISEE and the SSAT?
Both are admission tests for private and independent schools, and many schools accept either. The ISEE level is set by the grade a student is applying to and has no penalty for wrong answers. The SSAT level follows the student's current grade, and its Middle and Upper Level tests take off a quarter point for each wrong answer. The ISEE can be taken once per testing season; the SSAT allows more attempts.
Which test do Catholic high schools use?
Many use the HSPT, which each school or diocese gives to 8th graders on a date it sets. Ask the school you are applying to which test it requires and when it is given.
Which test is for New York City specialized high schools?
The SHSAT. It is the only admissions criterion for the eight specialized high schools that admit by test, and it is open to New York City residents in 8th grade or in 9th grade for the first time.
