The Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT) is an exam used for admission to certain public high schools in New York City. It assesses students' skills in areas such as mathematics and English language arts. The test is typically taken by eighth graders seeking to enter specialized high schools known for their rigorous academic programs. Students who score above a specific cutoff are offered admission to these schools, which include prestigious institutions like Stuyvesant High School and Bronx High School of Science. The SHSAT is a key factor in determining eligibility, and preparation for the test is often emphasized in middle school curricula.