The Ultimate Guide to Preparing Your Child for the CPS HSAT
Introduction
The CPS HSAT (Chicago Public Schools High School Admissions Test) is a crucial step for students aiming to gain entry into selective enrollment high schools. With competition increasing every year, it’s essential to have a solid preparation plan in place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the CPS HSAT, from understanding the test structure to effective study strategies and avoiding common mistakes.
If you’re looking for a proven, engaging, and premium way to prepare, PREPperoni offers a storytelling-based, audio-only platform designed to make CPS HSAT prep easy and fun. Learn more about PREPperoni here.
What is the CPS HSAT?
The CPS HSAT is an entrance exam required for admission to Chicago’s selective enrollment high schools. It assesses students in two subject areas:
Reading Comprehension
Tests the ability to understand and analyze written passages.
Includes questions on main ideas, supporting details, and inferences.
Mathematics
Covers algebra, geometry, fractions, percentages, and problem-solving.
Requires applying concepts to real-world scenarios.
Scoring
Each section contributes to the overall score, which plays a significant role in admissions decisions.
Learn more about test sections and scoring in our in-depth guide.
How to Prepare for the CPS HSAT
Preparation is the key to success on the CPS HSAT. Here’s how you can help your child get ready:
Start Early
Begin preparing at least 6 months in advance to allow ample time for learning and practice.
Create a Study Schedule
Divide study time between learning new concepts and reviewing previously covered material.
Use Effective Resources
Invest in professional test prep programs like PREPperoni, which combines storytelling and audio learning for better retention.
Access practice tests to simulate the exam experience.
Track Progress
Regularly assess strengths and weaknesses through quizzes and mock exams.
Focus on weaker areas to ensure well-rounded preparation.
Discover more actionable study tips in our Top 5 Study Habits for CPS HSAT Success.
Test-Taking Strategies
The CPS HSAT isn’t just about what you know—it’s about how you apply that knowledge under test conditions. These strategies can give your child an edge:
Manage Time Wisely
Allocate specific amounts of time to each section.
Avoid spending too much time on a single question.
Eliminate Wrong Answers
Narrow down choices to increase the odds of selecting the correct answer.
Stay Calm
Encourage your child to take deep breaths and approach each question with confidence.
Check out our full list of 10 CPS HSAT Test-Taking Hacks to help your child feel prepared and confident.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even well-prepared students can stumble if they make these common mistakes:
Skipping Practice Tests
Simulating test conditions helps build familiarity and confidence.
Ignoring Weak Areas
Focus on improving sections where your child struggles the most.
Cramming Before the Test
Avoid last-minute studying, which can lead to stress and burnout.
Read more about the 7 Most Common CPS HSAT Prep Mistakes and how to avoid them.
How PREPperoni Can Help
PREPperoni is a premium CPS HSAT prep platform that uses storytelling and audio lessons to make learning engaging and effective. Here’s why PREPperoni stands out:
Story-Based Learning
Concepts are taught through fun, relatable stories that students remember.
Audio-Only Flexibility
Perfect for busy students who can learn on the go.
Proven Results
Students who use Prepperoni consistently outperform their peers.
Sign up for PREPperoni today and give your child the edge they need to succeed on the CPS HSAT. Learn More.
Conclusion
Preparing for the CPS HSAT is a journey, but with the right approach and resources, your child can excel. Use this guide to get started, and consider PREPperoni as the ultimate solution for premium, engaging test prep.
Start Today with PREPperoni: Sign Up Now