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Exam Information
Official specifications published by Academic Testing
Exam Format
150 min
298
Varies by school
Academic Placement
Registration
$45 USD
Individual Catholic high schools
Validity
Single test administration - scores valid for current admission cycle
Not applicable - placement test for one-time admission use
HSPT-TEST Exam Topics and Domains
HSPT-TEST is organized into 5 weighted domains.
1
Verbal Skills
20%
Verbal Analogies
Word Relationships
- Recognize and apply word relationship patterns
- Understand various types of analogical reasoning
Synonyms
Word Meanings
- Develop vocabulary knowledge appropriate for 8th grade
- Identify synonymous relationships between words
Antonyms
Opposite Meanings
- Recognize antonymous word relationships
- Apply understanding of opposing concepts
Logic
Logical Reasoning
- Apply logical reasoning to verbal statements
- Distinguish between true, false, and uncertain conclusions
Verbal Classification
Category Recognition
- Identify words that don't belong in given categories
- Recognize common attributes among word groups
2
Quantitative Skills
17%
Number Series
Pattern Recognition
- Recognize and extend numerical and alphabetical patterns
- Apply sequential reasoning
Geometric Comparisons
Visual Comparison
- Compare geometric figures visually
- Understand relative properties of shapes
Non-Geometric Comparisons
Numerical Expressions
- Compare numerical expressions efficiently
- Apply mental math techniques
Number Manipulation
Basic Operations
- Manipulate numbers using basic operations
- Simplify numerical expressions without calculator
3
Reading
21%
Reading Comprehension
Passage Understanding
- Comprehend passages from various academic disciplines
- Extract key information from diverse text types
Vocabulary in Context
Word Meaning
- Use context to determine word meanings
- Apply vocabulary knowledge to comprehension
Main Ideas and Details
Central Thoughts
- Identify central ideas in passages
- Distinguish between main and supporting information
Author's Purpose and Point of View
Writer's Intent
- Identify author's purpose in writing
- Recognize point of view and perspective
Inferences and Analysis
Drawing Conclusions
- Make valid inferences from text
- Draw conclusions based on evidence
Literary Elements
Mood and ToneFact vs. Fiction
- Identify mood and tone in passages
- Distinguish between factual and fictional content
4
Mathematics
21%
Arithmetic
FractionsDecimalsPercentagesRatios and ProportionsOrder of Operations
- Perform arithmetic operations accurately without calculator
- Apply arithmetic to real-world scenarios
Algebra
EquationsAbsolute ValuesAlgebraic Expressions
- Solve basic algebraic equations
- Manipulate and simplify algebraic expressions
Geometry
Pythagorean TheoremLines and AnglesArea and PerimeterVolumeBasic Shapes
- Apply geometric formulas and concepts
- Solve problems involving shapes and measurements
Problem Solving
Word ProblemsApplied Mathematics
- Solve multi-step word problems
- Apply mathematical concepts to real situations
Other Mathematical Concepts
Number SenseMeasurementsStatistics and Probability
- Understand fundamental number properties
- Apply measurement and statistical concepts
5
Language
20%
Punctuation and Capitalization
Punctuation RulesCapitalization Rules
- Apply correct punctuation in sentences
- Use proper capitalization conventions
Grammar and Usage
Parts of SpeechSubject-Verb AgreementVerb TensesPronoun Usage
- Apply correct grammar rules
- Identify and correct grammatical errors
Sentence Structure
Sentence TypesParallelism
- Construct grammatically correct sentences
- Maintain parallel structure in writing
Spelling
Common Spelling Patterns
- Spell grade-appropriate words correctly
- Identify common spelling errors
Composition
Sentence ClarityError Identification
- Write clear, effective sentences
- Identify and correct writing errors
How do I earn this certification?
Passing HSPT-TEST earns the High School Placement Score certification. It sits in the Catholic High School Admission track.
Alternative Paths
- Independent School Entrance Examination Alternative for non-Catholic private schools
- Secondary School Admission Test Alternative for private and boarding schools
- Cooperative Admissions Examination Program Alternative placement test used by some Catholic schools
- Terra Nova Achievement Test General academic assessment alternative
Practice with Precision
The PlanetCert Simulator mirrors the real exam environment with authentic questions and timed pressure.
How to study for this exam?
The most effective way to prepare for HSPT-TEST is by using the PlanetCert Simulator to practice questions and review detailed explanations.
What's changed on this exam?
Current Status
- ACTIVE
- Last content update: 2025-2026 test form
Updates
- Paper-Based Testing Traditional format HSPT remains paper-based - no computer-based option currently available • Release date: Since 1957
- Score Reporting System Current Scores delivered to schools and families approximately 2-3 weeks after testing • Release date: Updated annually
Who should take this exam?
- 8th grade curriculum completion
- Basic study skills
- Time management practice
- Familiarity with standardized test format