High school entrance tests in Chicago
In Chicago, every Catholic high school in the archdiocese gives the HSPT on the same day. For fall 2027 entry that day is Saturday, Dec 5, 2026, and a student may test at only one school. Chicago Public Schools uses its own test, the CPS High School Admissions Test, given in October.
For students entering 9th grade in fall 2027. Facts checked October 11, 2026 on the official pages listed at the bottom. We read a sample of schools, not every one, and dates change every year. Confirm with each school.
Catholic high schools
| Test | HSPT, at all Catholic high schools in the Archdiocese of Chicago |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, Dec 5, 2026. The archdiocese says it is usually the first Saturday in December |
| One school only | An 8th grader may take the exam at just one Catholic high school |
| Fee | $25 at Marist |
| Sign-up | Through the school. Saint Ignatius opens registration on Nov 13, 2026 at 8:00 AM |
Chicago Public Schools
| Test | CPS High School Admissions Test (HSAT). The district's test page calls it the PreACT 9 Secure, covering four subject areas |
|---|---|
| CPS students | Tested at school on Oct 7, 2026 |
| Students outside CPS | Weekend testing on Oct 17 and 18 or Oct 24 and 25, 2026 |
| Retakes | None. Students can take the test one time |
| Application and offers | Applications close Nov 13, 2026. Offers come Feb 12, 2027 |
Two CPS pages describe the test differently. The test page says four subject areas, and the application page still says two, math and reading. Check with CPS before relying on either.
About this test
Questions parents in Chicago ask
When is the Catholic high school entrance exam in Chicago?
Saturday, Dec 5, 2026, for students entering 9th grade in fall 2027. All Catholic high schools in the Archdiocese of Chicago give the exam that day.
What test do Chicago Catholic high schools use?
The HSPT, the High School Placement Test.
Can my child take the Chicago entrance exam at more than one Catholic high school?
No. Students may take the exam at only one Catholic high school.
What is the CPS HSAT?
It is the Chicago Public Schools High School Admissions Test. For fall 2027 entry CPS students tested on Oct 7, 2026, students from other schools tested on October weekends, and no retakes are allowed.
Sources
Other cities
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