Top 10 NYC Middle Schools for Specialized High School Placement in 2024
Choosing the right middle school is one of the most crucial decisions for families aiming to secure a spot in one of New York City’s Specialized High Schools. These schools are known for their rigorous admissions process, which ultimately helps to identify the best students who will be a good fit to take the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT). To help parents and students navigate this journey, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 NYC middle schools that have placed the most students into Specialized High Schools in 2024.
1. J.H.S. 201 The Madeleine Brennan School (20K201)
Located in Brooklyn, J.H.S. 201 continues to be a powerhouse in preparing students for the SHSAT. Known for its robust academic programs and dedicated faculty, this school has once again proven its ability to nurture top performers. 104 students placed in 2024
2. I.S. 98 Bay Academy (21K098)
I.S. 98 Bay Academy, also in Brooklyn, boasts a strong history of sending students to Specialized High Schools. The school's focus on advanced math and science curricula provides students with the foundation needed to excel in the SHSAT. 91 students placed in 2024
3. J.H.S. 067 Louis Pasteur (26Q067)
Queens' J.H.S. 067 Louis Pasteur stands out for its commitment to academic excellence. The school’s specialized test prep programs have consistently yielded high numbers of Specialized High School admissions. 87 students placed in 2024
4. J.H.S. 167 Robert F. Wagner (02M167)
Manhattan’s J.H.S. 167 Robert F. Wagner is known for its rigorous academic environment. The school offers a variety of SHSAT prep resources, helping its students stand out in the competitive admissions process. 81 students placed in 2024
5. The Christa McAuliffe School/I.S. 187 (20K187)
Another Brooklyn gem, The Christa McAuliffe School, or I.S. 187, continues to shine with its strong placement numbers. The school’s focus on STEM education has been instrumental in preparing students for Specialized High Schools. 80 students placed in 2024
6. New York City Lab Middle School for Collaborative Studies (02M312)
New York City Lab Middle School in Manhattan emphasizes collaborative learning, critical thinking, and a comprehensive SHSAT preparation program, making it one of the top contributors to Specialized High School admissions. 79 students placed in 2024
7. J.H.S. 259 William McKinley (20K259)
J.H.S. 259 William McKinley in Brooklyn is celebrated for its structured academic programs that challenge students to excel. Its consistent track record of placing students into Specialized High Schools speaks to its success. 77 students placed in 2024
8. J.H.S. 216 George J. Ryan (26Q216)
J.H.S. 216 George J. Ryan in Queens is known for its strong academic culture and supportive environment, which have helped many students gain admission to Specialized High Schools. 75 students placed in 2024 7473
9. J.H.S. 074 Nathaniel Hawthorne (26Q074)
J.H.S. 074 Nathaniel Hawthorne, also located in Queens, continues to be a top performer. The school’s comprehensive SHSAT prep courses have contributed significantly to its students' success. 74 students placed in 2024
10. J.H.S. 054 Booker T. Washington (03M054)
Manhattan’s J.H.S. 054 Booker T. Washington rounds out our top 10. The school’s focus on academic rigor and its well-structured SHSAT preparation programs make it a consistent contributor to Specialized High School placements. 73 students placed in 2024
These top 10 middle schools have set the bar high when it comes to preparing students for the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT). If you’re considering a middle school that will give your child the best chance at securing a spot in one of NYC's elite Specialized High Schools, these schools should be at the top of your list. Their consistent success in placing students into these competitive institutions is a testament to their strong academic programs, dedicated teachers, and focused SHSAT preparation. At AdmissionSquad, we’re committed to helping students reach their full potential, and attending one of these top-performing middle schools can be a crucial step on that journey. Whether you're just starting to explore your options or are deep into the process, these schools represent some of the best pathways to academic success in New York City. Sign up for our Early Start Program so we can get your child on track for success.