Applying to High School

UPDATE:  12/21/20

Recently, Mr. Seth Kritzman hosted a high school information session over zoom.  If you weren't able to attend, please watch the VIDEO to learn more about the process for this year.   Translation video in CHINESE.

Applying to High School

Navigating the High School Admissions process can feel overwhelming. It is our experience that when families are prepared and given the correct information they are able to successfully navigate the process. Here you will find information and steps you can take throughout 7th and 8th grade to prepare yourself. LMC also hosts an information session for 7th grade families every January.

Resources for Applying to High School

• DOE High School Application Resources
• NYC School Finder App
• Inside Schools Website
• High School Tour Note Taking Log

7th Grade

Attendance, course grades, and standardized test scores from 7th grade are used by many high schools in making their admission decisions. Students should avoid being late and minimize absences. Anything in excess of 10 combined lateness and absences will hurt your high school application. School specific information is available in the online DOE High School Directory. Students may also consider reviewing InsideSchools.org for additional information.

Students may also want to begin thinking about the high school they would like to attend. Some questions students should consider:

• How far away from home is the school, what will the commute be like?
• Do I want to attend a large or small school?
• Does the school’s focus area interest me?
• Does the school have arts programs, after school activities, and/or internship opportunities that interest me?
• Where do students go after they graduate?

Students interested in Specialized High Schools should start preparing for the exam as early as possible. Read through the Specialized Schools Handbook found on the DOE website, and try one of the practice tests included. LMC offers a test preparation program for select students. Students are invited to participate based upon their 6th grade standardized test scores. Please contact Mr. Kritzman for more information.

Students interested in Arts or Performing Arts schools will want to start preparing their portfolios and audition material. Each school’s Directory page or website will give you the details of their portfolio/audition requirements.

8th Grade

Before 8th grade begins in September, students should review the DOE's High School Directory and make a list of potential high schools.

At the end of August, schools will start posting Open House and Tour dates. Dates are also sometimes listed in the High School Directory, but are subject to change, therefore it is important to confirm the dates directly with each school. Some school tours book up very quickly, so please be sure to check school websites consistently.

Starting in September, all students will receive an Online Ticket Request Form for those interested in Specialized or audition based schools. This form must be completed in order to receive a ticket for the SHSAT (Specialized High School exam), LaGuardia audition, or any number of other audition schools.

In mid-October, the SHSAT and LaGuardia audition tickets will be distributed. Exam and audition dates are listed in the High School Directory and the Specialized High School Handbook. In addition, you will receive your high school application. One should aim to finalize their application by November so that you will have time to discuss your choices with Mr. Kritzman. Applications are usually due in early December.

Specialized High Schools to Consider

High Schools to Consider

Admissions requirements may change from year to year, check each school’s website to see if they have additional requirements such as a portfolio, interview, or assessment.