High school entrance tests in Houston
In Houston, the Catholic high schools we read use the ISEE. Strake Jesuit requires it of all 9th grade applicants, and St. Agnes Academy accepts only ISEE scores. Frassati Catholic, north of the city, takes either the HSPT or the ISEE. Houston ISD's Carnegie Vanguard High School admits by a points matrix and lottery.
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
| Strake Jesuit (boys) | ISEE, required. On campus Saturday, Oct 31, 2026 and Saturday, Jan 9, 2027. The exam costs $170 |
|---|---|
| St. Agnes Academy | ISEE only. On campus Nov 14, 2026. Applicants should test by Feb 1, 2027 |
| St. Agnes and retakes | The school will review up to two ISEE results |
| Frassati Catholic, Spring | Requires either the HSPT or the ISEE for 9th grade applicants |
We found no statement from the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston on a common test, so check each school on your list.
Houston ISD
| Carnegie Vanguard High School | No entrance exam named. Applicants need a score of 80 or higher on the Magnet Matrix and must be identified as Gifted and Talented by Houston ISD |
|---|---|
| Dates | Applications are due Feb 12, 2027. Lottery results come March 17, 2027 |
We read one Houston ISD school. Other magnet programs may have their own rules.
About these tests
Questions parents in Houston ask
What entrance test do Catholic high schools in Houston use?
The ISEE at the schools we read. Strake Jesuit requires it, and St. Agnes Academy accepts only the ISEE. Frassati Catholic accepts either the HSPT or the ISEE.
When is the ISEE given at Houston Catholic high schools?
Strake Jesuit offers it on Oct 31, 2026 and Jan 9, 2027. St. Agnes Academy hosts it on Nov 14, 2026.
Does Houston ISD have an entrance exam for its selective high schools?
Carnegie Vanguard, the one school we read, names no entrance exam. It asks for a Magnet Matrix score of 80 or higher and Gifted and Talented identification, then runs a lottery.
Sources
- Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, Houston, how to apply
- St. Agnes Academy, Houston, how to apply as a 9th grader
- Frassati Catholic High School, Spring, Texas, apply
- Carnegie Vanguard High School, Houston ISD, admissions
- Prepwick's own search of published research, October 2026
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