. The "cutoff score" is the minimum point total (out of 900) required for the last student admitted to a program within a specific tier or the general rank. Chicago School Options
: 450 points from 7th-grade core subject grades and 450 points from the CPS High School Admissions Test (HSAT). Offers are distributed as 30% "Rank" (highest scores citywide) and 70% divided equally among the four socio-economic tiers. Chicago Public Schools School Name Rank (30%) Walter Payton Northside Prep Whitney Young Jones College Prep Source: Official CPS High School Resources and historical Selective Enrollment High School Results Chicago Public Schools Selective Enrollment Elementary Schools (SEES) Point scales vary by program: (300 points), Regional Gifted Centers (300 points), and Academic Centers (7th–8th grade entry, 600 points). Chicago Public Schools Academic Centers (7th Grade Entry): Whitney Young Rank 572.5 | Tier 4: 557.5 Rank 542.5 | Tier 4: 532.5 Classical Programs (Kindergarten Entry): Skinner West Rank 241.3 | Tier 4: 225 Rank 241.3 | Tier 4: 218.8 Chicago Public Schools Critical Application Policies High School Resources | Chicago Public Schools
follows a specific 30/70 split to ensure citywide representation: Chicago Public Schools Top 30% (Rank)
Here are some tips for students and parents navigating the CPS Selective Enrollment process:
CPS has continued to refine its GoCPS platform. For the 2024-2025 cycle, there are no significant changes to the scoring algorithm, but competition has intensified due to a larger applicant pool.
The Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Selective Enrollment program is a highly competitive and sought-after educational opportunity for students in Chicago. The program offers a rigorous and challenging curriculum to students who demonstrate academic excellence and a strong work ethic. One of the key factors in determining admission to a Selective Enrollment school is the cutoff score, which is calculated based on a student's performance on the Selective Enrollment test and their academic record.
: Results were released on February 23, 2024 , with the acceptance deadline on March 15, 2024 .
To promote educational equity, Chicago is divided geographically into four distinct based on median income, education levels, and homeownership rates.
Families usually have about four weeks to accept or decline their initial offer. High School Resources | Chicago Public Schools
Students take this standardized test during their 8th-grade year. The CPS Socioeconomic Tier System
By following these tips and staying informed, students and parents can navigate the CPS Selective Enrollment process with confidence. Good luck!