Prepare to excel on the SHSAT.

Get matched with your ideal tutor. Enjoy personalized sessions and engaging tools. Then, gain the confidence to ace the SHSAT.

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Let's master the SHSAT

The Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT), is the entrance exam (and sole criterion for admissions) for 8th graders who aim to attend one of eight Specialized High Schools in NYC. Applerouth experts have studied the test inside-out, honing strategies to play to your student's strengths on test day.

Test prep your way.

We offer private SHSAT tutoring for that one-on-one, personal touch. Our expert tutors will work to customize the techniques and approaches that are the most effective for your learning needs.

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Hours

The hours you need. No more, no less.

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Tutors

Select the level of your tutor.

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Flexible

Anywhere.
Any time.

What's the format like?

The SHSAT is a 3-hour test that allows students to pace themselves through its ELA and Math sections. Students who are more comfortable with Math can choose to complete that section first. Only 47 of the 57 questions-per-section are scored, as the remaining 10 are used to gather performance data. There is no way to determine which 10 questions will not be scored. Our students are ready to tackle whatever the test throws their way.

ELA (reading & writing).

9-11 editing questions, 6 passages, 46-48 reading comprehension questions.

9-11
Editing Questions
6
Passages

Math.

5 grid-ins.

5
Grid-Ins
52
Multi-Choice

Applerouth's Process

From advisement to post-service follow up, we come alongside you on your journey.

1. Craft a plan.

Schedule an appointment with a Program Director to discuss which of our learning experiences would work best for you.

2. Tutor matching.

Get matched to the perfect tutor for you, based on learning needs, personality, and educational goals.

3. Start learning.

Make leaps and bounds in whatever it is you need help with the most - and then some. Get ready to feel more confident by the end.

Meet Some of Our Amazing Tutors

They all bring something unique to the table meaning there's a good match for every student. What they all have in common? An insatiable drive to help your student succeed.

Jenna Berk

Jenna Berk

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT
Academic: Algebra, English, Geometry, PreCalculus, Writing
Executive Function Coaching

About
Jenna Berk

Jenna, the IEC Account Manager for DC, Maryland, and Virginia, joined Applerouth in 2012, bringing a dynamic mix of creativity and rigor. An Echols Scholar at the University of Virginia, Jenna earned a B.A. in English (with distinction) and a minor in Theatre, blending her love of storytelling with a supportive and motivating teaching style. Known for her encouraging and reassuring approach, Jenna reminds students, "Don't let the test get inside your head - and remember, it's always simpler than you think." In her downtime,  Jenna enjoys reading, rooting for the Nationals, and spending time with her dog.

Parent Praise

“Jenna is the best! She really understood my son’s needs and tailored her approach to support him. She was patient and understanding. My son’s SAT scores improved and working with Jenna was an all-around great experience.”

Lynda Ratmeyer

Lynda Ratmeyer

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE, SHSAT
AP: Biology, Calculus AB, Chemistry
Academic: Algebra, Biology, Chemistry, PreCalculus, Trigonometry

About
Lynda Ratmeyer

Lynda joined Applerouth in 2016, bringing over 20 years of experience as a Montessori high school math and science teacher. With a BS in Biology and a PhD in Biophysical Chemistry from Georgia State University, Lynda combines deep expertise with a patient, reassuring approach. She describes her tutoring style as student-centered and adaptive: "I excel when I work one-on-one, adjusting to each student's learning style." Inspired by her children, Lynda left science research to pursue teaching. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, yoga, drawing, and gardening, and as an ordained Zen Buddhist monk, she values balance and inspiration in her life.

Parent Praise

“Lynda, I just wanted to reach out and share what an impact you are having on my daughter’s academic success this semester. She is getting a ‘super A’ in AP Pre-Calculus and feels confident about her upcoming SAT test.”

Brooke Rose

Brooke Rose

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE, SHSAT
Academic: Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry

About
Brooke Rose

Passionate about teaching, Brooke joined Applerouth in 2015 while continuing to teach science in the public school system. With a Master’s in Instructional Technology from Kennesaw State University, she combines her expertise in science education with a talent for simplifying test strategies and amplifying each student’s strengths. Known for her innovative approach to standardized test prep, Brooke sums up her philosophy: "Work smarter, not harder." When not tutoring or teaching, she enjoys cooking, traveling, and cheering on the Patriots.

Parent Praise

"After just a few private sessions with Brooke, my daughter increased her ACT score by 2 points. Brooke is professional, flexible, and eager to help—an excellent experience all around. I would recommend Brooke to anyone looking to strengthen their test-taking skills."

Shara-Sue Crump

Shara-Sue Crump

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT
AP: Studio Art
Academic: Algebra, English, French, Geometry, PreCalculus, Writing

About
Shara-Sue Crump

With degrees in Art Marketing and Art Education from Georgia universities, Shara-Sue joined Applerouth in 2014, bringing eight years of experience teaching Special Education, Math, and Visual Art at the middle and high school levels. As a Senior Tutor Manager, her lively, adaptive, and energetic style empowers students to build confidence and conquer test anxiety to be fully prepared for test day. Known for her dedication and willingness to go the extra mile for students and families, Shara-Sue creates a supportive and engaging learning environment. When not tutoring, Shara-Sue enjoys creating art, traveling, and exploring Atlanta’s vibrant cultural scene.

Parent Praise

"Shara-Sue is the most incredible tutor! We are so appreciative of Applerouth for matching us with her. We are thrilled with the help and leadership she has provided to our daughters, who adore her. She is truly wonderful."

Eric Garbe

Eric Garbe

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE, SHSAT
AP: Algebra 1 & 2, Calculus, Calculus AB & BC, Comparative Government & Politics, English Language, English Literature, PreCalculus
Academic: Geometry, Physics, PreCalculus

About
Eric Garbe

Eric is a transformative educator known for helping students master even the most challenging concepts. A National Merit Scholar and graduate of the University of Georgia, Eric joined Applerouth in 2015 and also serves as a Tutor Manager, mentoring other Applerouth tutors. He employs a scaffolding approach to learning, offering structured support and step-by-step guidance that helps students build confidence and independence. Eric explains, "I focus on building, starting with areas of strength or familiarity and using those concepts to build confidence and bridge into new ideas." Outside of tutoring, Eric enjoys reading and cooking.

Parent Praise

“While my son started his tutoring sessions reluctantly, he has been pleasantly surprised by how helpful they’ve been. He enjoys learning new concepts and test strategies from Eric.  Just the other day, my son mentioned that he wishes Eric were his teacher at school.”

Tal Kitron

Tal Kitron

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT
Academic: Algebra, Geometry
Executive Function Coaching

About
Tal Kitron

A National Merit Finalist, Tal earned his B.S. from the University of Illinois and his J.D. from Emory University’s School of Law. After practicing law, he found his true passion in education and joined Applerouth in 2013. Known for his sharp intellect and methodical approach, Tal inspires confidence and mastery in his students. He describes his tutoring style as individualized, saying, "I like to get to know a student to determine their learning style, goals, and personality. Based on that, I can be laid-back, no-nonsense, or a combination of both. I challenge all my students to set high goals and emphasize the importance of practice and effort." Outside of tutoring, Tal enjoys chess, languages, and music.

Parent Praise

“Your expertise, patience, and commitment to going above and beyond have had an incredible impact on our daughter’s confidence and preparedness for this important test. Your influence will extend far beyond this test, as you have empowered her with skills that will serve her well in future academic pursuits. Your contributions to her educational journey will forever be appreciated and remembered.” 

Sarah Fletcher

Sarah Fletcher

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE

About
Sarah Fletcher

A Harvey Mudd College graduate with advanced studies in Mathematics and Theoretical Computer Science from Georgia Tech, Sarah has been with Applerouth since 2013. As the company’s Math Specialist, she shapes SAT/ACT math content and oversees the curriculum department while also excelling as a math and science tutor. Sarah’s tutoring philosophy is rooted in simplifying complex problems: “It’s good to keep the big picture in mind, but the best approach to almost any problem is to take things one step at a time.” In her free time, she enjoys knitting, baking, and singing in her choir.

Parent Praise

“My daughter likes Sarah’s style and how she helps break things into manageable pieces. She feels Sarah is already helping her better understand the concepts.”

Chelsea Benoit

Chelsea Benoit

Areas of Expertise:

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE
AP: Biology
Academic: Biology, Chemistry

About
Chelsea Benoit

Chelsea, the Seattle-area Tutor Manager, joined Applerouth in 2016 with a strong background as a college-level science instructor. A former International Baccalaureate student, she earned a Bachelor’s in Biological Science and dual Master’s degrees in Biology and Science Education from Florida State University, where she also conducted lab research and taught undergraduates. Chelsea takes a student-led approach to tutoring, saying, “I don’t give direct answers; instead, I ask questions to guide students toward a problem-solving process they can use in the future.” Outside of work, she enjoys rock climbing, cooking, and playing bass guitar.

Parent Praise

“Our daughter is so fortunate to have Chelsea as her tutor. She was struggling last semester, but with Chelsea’s help, she improved significantly this semester. She had more than 10 tutors before, and Chelsea is the best tutor she has ever had. She ROCKS!”

SHSAT Test and Registration Dates

Keep in mind that students can only take the SHSAT once, so be prepared! Marking your calendar? Testing dates are set by the NYC Department of Education. Check their website for all the details.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Testing typically begins in early October and runs through early December. High school offers are released around early March.

Explore What's Happening

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Want the SHSAT in a nutshell?

We’re way ahead of you – and we have just the thing. Download our one-pager for the perfect visual guide.

Schedule an appointment with a Program Director.

Questions? Need some advice? We're here to help.

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