About the HSPT
Everything you need to know about the High School Placement Test
What is the HSPT?
The High School Placement Test (HSPT) is a standardized exam used by Catholic and private high schools to assess incoming students. It measures academic achievement and cognitive ability across five key areas: Verbal Skills, Quantitative Skills, Reading, Mathematics, and Language.
The HSPT is administered by Scholastic Testing Service (STS) and is one of the most widely used entrance exams for high school admissions. Schools use HSPT scores to make admissions decisions and determine placement in academic programs.
Test Format
Duration
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes total testing time
Questions
298 multiple-choice questions across 5 sections
Scoring
Standard scores ranging from 200-800, with a national average around 500
Format
Paper-based test with answer sheets scanned for scoring
Test Sections
Verbal Skills
Tests vocabulary, verbal reasoning, and logic through analogies, synonyms, antonyms, and verbal classifications.
Quantitative Skills
Measures mathematical reasoning through number series, geometric comparisons, and non-verbal reasoning.
Reading
Assesses comprehension through reading passages and vocabulary in context.
Mathematics
Tests arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and problem-solving skills.
Language
Evaluates grammar, punctuation, capitalization, usage, and spelling.
Ready to Start Preparing?
Take a diagnostic test to see where you stand, then practice with targeted questions.