Parent FAQ
Start with the questions that change the plan
Check the weights, the dates and who can apply before investing in preparation work.
Checked against Townsend Harris's published admissions pages on November 5, 2026.
Before you enroll
Questions from parents.
Does Townsend Harris use the SHSAT?
Townsend Harris High School is a public high school in Queens. It admits students through MySchools using grades plus a school-based essay and video, not the SHSAT.
How is a Grade 9 applicant scored?
For Grade 9 entry in fall 2027, the school weighs average course grades at 60%, the essay at 20% and the video at 20%.
What are the essay and video about?
The 2026-27 video is at most 2 minutes. The student introduces themselves, then names two talents, interests, abilities or gifts that would enrich the school and explains how they would leave it greater than they found it. The 2026-27 writing task is a humanities response of 250 to 500 words. It asks whether Townsend Harris students should swear to resist anyone who disobeys the law, using a Theodore Roosevelt passage and two resources the school provides.
When is everything due?
The high school application closes on Friday, December 4, 2026. The essay and video for screened programs with an assessment are also due December 4, 2026, the same day the application closes.
When do families hear back?
High school offers are released on Wednesday, March 3, 2027, after 3pm.
Can my student apply for Grade 10?
For Grade 10 entry in fall 2027, the school admits top-performing applicants from each middle school and citywide, placed by their final 8th-grade core course grades. Grade 10 applicants do not submit an essay or video.
What is the Diversity in Admissions Initiative?
Townsend Harris has a Diversity in Admissions Initiative. Applicants eligible for free or reduced-cost lunch are considered first for 50% of seats, and all students are considered for the other 50%.
How do I find my child's group?
While the application is open, families can see their child's group in MySchools under Edit profile. To learn the averages needed at your child's own NYC public school, contact the current school after the application period begins.
Is TownsendHarrisPrep affiliated with Townsend Harris?
No. TownsendHarrisPrep by EduAvenues is an independent service, not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Townsend Harris High School. Check every requirement and date on the school's own website before you apply.
How current is the admissions information on this site?
The admissions facts on this site were last checked against the school's published pages on November 5, 2026. Schools can change requirements and dates at any time.