Who can take the Hunter entrance exam
The exam is for New York City sixth graders who meet Hunter's qualifying criteria for that admissions cycle. Criteria are published each year, so confirm the current requirements on Hunter's official admissions page before planning.
Hunter exam format
The exam combines English Language Arts and Mathematics multiple-choice sections with a timed writing response that is scored separately.
The writing task rewards one developed idea with concrete detail, not a list of shallow examples, which is why we give essays their own weekly slot from the start.
How to prepare for Hunter
Begin the summer before sixth grade or in early fall. Build reading depth and mathematical reasoning first, then add timed mixed sets in September and October.
In the final weeks, take a weekly mock and revise recurring writing and reasoning weaknesses instead of adding new content.
Hunter vs SHSAT: what is different
Hunter is a seventh-grade entry exam with an essay; the SHSAT is an eighth-grade (or ninth-grade) exam with no writing task. Many families prepare for both, and our platform keeps separate study plans and question banks for each.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the Hunter exam the same as the SHSAT?
- No. Hunter administers its own entrance exam for seventh-grade admission and it includes a scored writing task, while the SHSAT is used for the specialized high schools in eighth grade.
- How important is the Hunter essay?
- It is a distinct scored component, so it deserves weekly practice with feedback rather than a few attempts at the end.
- When should Hunter prep start?
- Most families start the summer before sixth grade or in early fall, which leaves time for reading, math reasoning and regular essay work.
- What does Hunter prep cost?
- Hunter membership is $79 per month with a 3-day trial, or $299 for a 4-month prepaid package. The diagnostic and study plan are free.