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HSPT guides for parents

What the High School Placement Test is, when it is, how it is scored, and how to use the weeks before it. Every fact about the test links to its source.

Each guide is built from what Scholastic Testing Service (STS), the publisher of the HSPT, and the dioceses that give it publish, with a link next to every fact that matters. Where something is our own advice, we say so. Every sample question on these pages is a practice question written by us, not a question from the real test.

The test, the dates and the scores

• HSPT test dates 2026, by diocese and regionHSPT test dates for 2026 by diocese and region: Nov 21 and Dec 5 are the busiest days. Every date with its source, plus registration and fee notes.
• The HSPT test: what is on it, how long it is, and the rulesWhat is on the HSPT: 298 multiple-choice questions in 5 sections, about 2.5 hours, no calculator, no guessing penalty. Each section, its time and skills.
• HSPT scores explained: standard scores, percentiles and the CSQHSPT scores explained for parents: standard scores from 200 to 800, national percentiles, the CSQ and composites, and why no one can convert a raw score.

The five sections, with sample questions

• HSPT Verbal Skills: 60 questions in 16 minutesThe HSPT Verbal Skills section: 60 questions in 16 minutes. Synonyms, antonyms, analogies, odd word out and logic, each with a sample question and a method.
• HSPT Quantitative Skills: 52 questions in 30 minutesThe HSPT Quantitative Skills section: 52 questions in 30 minutes, no calculator. Number series, number manipulation and comparisons, with sample questions.
• HSPT Reading: 62 questions in 25 minutesThe HSPT Reading section: 62 questions in 25 minutes. Passage comprehension and vocabulary, what the questions ask, a sample question and pacing tips.
• HSPT math: 64 questions in 45 minutes, no calculatorThe HSPT Mathematics section: 64 questions in 45 minutes, no calculator. Numbers, measurement, geometry, algebra and statistics, with sample questions.
• HSPT Language: 60 questions in 25 minutesThe HSPT Language section: 60 questions in 25 minutes on punctuation, capitalization, usage, spelling and composition, with sample questions and the rules.

Preparing

• How to prepare for the HSPT, including a 2-week planHow to prepare for the HSPT: one full timed practice test, short daily practice on the weak sections, a second full test. A day-by-day 2-week plan for parents.
• HSPT practice test PDF: what exists, and what we offerLooking for an HSPT practice test PDF? STS publishes none for families. Our free full HSPT practice test is online; printable paper tests come with Full Prep.