High school entrance tests in Dallas
In Dallas, the Catholic high schools we read require the ISEE, not the HSPT. Bishop Lynch and Jesuit Dallas both require it of all freshman applicants and offer it on campus in December and January. Dallas ISD magnet schools use grades and state test scores to qualify students, then a campus assessment.
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
| Bishop Lynch | ISEE, required of all freshman applicants. On campus Dec 12, 2026, Jan 9, 2027 and Jan 23, 2027. It can be taken at any location |
|---|---|
| Jesuit Dallas | ISEE, required of all freshman applicants. On campus Jan 9, 2027. Scores are due Jan 29 |
| Retakes | One ISEE per testing season, which is the test owner's rule |
We read two Dallas schools and no Fort Worth school. We found no current statement from the Diocese of Dallas, so check each school on your list.
Dallas ISD magnet schools
| Entrance test | No single exam. Students who meet a minimum grade average and minimum test scores move on to an on-campus assessment |
|---|---|
| What counts first | A 75% cumulative grade average and spring 2026 STAAR Reading and Math scores |
| Campus assessment | Applicants need a total score of 70 or more. 30% of seats go districtwide by rank order of that score |
| Out-of-district students | A $100 test fee applies |
About this test
Questions parents in Dallas ask
What entrance test do Catholic high schools in Dallas use?
The ISEE at the schools we read. Bishop Lynch and Jesuit Dallas both require the ISEE of all freshman applicants.
When can you take the ISEE in Dallas?
Bishop Lynch offers it on campus on Dec 12, 2026, Jan 9, 2027 and Jan 23, 2027. Jesuit Dallas offers it on Jan 9, 2027. The ISEE can also be taken at other locations and at home.
Is there an entrance exam for Dallas ISD magnet schools?
There is no single entrance exam. Dallas ISD first checks a minimum grade average and state test scores, then gives qualifying students an on-campus assessment.
Sources
- Bishop Lynch High School, Dallas, apply
- Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas, apply
- Dallas ISD magnets, application process
- E3n, ISEE Quick Facts Guide, 2026 to 2027
- Prepwick's own search of published research, October 2026
- Dallas ISD magnets, selection process
- E3n, ISEE registration
Other cities
New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Washington, DC, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Miami, Phoenix