What’s a Good HSPT Score? Your HSPT Study Guide.
Our HSPT study guide offers a comprehensive overview of the High School Placement Test, detailing its structure, scoring system, and providing effective strategies to help 8th-grade students prepare confidently for this critical exam.
If your student is applying to a Catholic high school such has Jesuit High School in Portland, Oregon, they may be required to take the High School Placement Test (HSPT) as part of the admissions process. This standardized exam plays an important role in determining placement, admissions decisions, and even scholarship eligibility—so it’s natural to wonder what makes for a strong score.
In this HSPT guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the test: how it's structured, how it's scored, and how to prepare for it effectively. Whether you're looking for HSPT tips, advice on how to pass the HSPT test, or resources for practice, this guide offers families a clear and focused overview of what to expect—and how to approach the HSPT with confidence.
What Is the HSPT?
The High School Placement Test (HSPT) is a standardized entrance exam used by many Catholic high schools across the United States. Developed by Scholastic Testing Service, the test is intended to assess a student’s academic skills in key areas—most notably verbal reasoning, reading comprehension, math, quantitative reasoning, and language skills.
The HSPT is typically administered to eighth-grade students as part of the high school admissions process. Unlike tests that focus purely on content knowledge, the HSPT also measures a student’s ability to apply skills under time pressure—making preparation and test-day readiness especially important.
In the sections that follow, we’ll explain the test’s format, outline each section, answer common questions about tools (like calculators and scratch paper), and share practical advice on how to improve your score. If you're looking for a reliable, step-by-step HSPT study guide, you’re in the right place.
HSPT Structure
The HSPT is a multiple-choice exam made up of five core sections, administered in a single sitting and designed to measure both content knowledge and reasoning ability. The test includes a total of 298 questions, all of which are weighted equally. Students have 2 hours, 21 minutes to complete the test, with short breaks between sections.
Each section targets specific academic skills. Below is a brief summary of what to expect from each part of the test, along with a general sense of the number and type of HSPT questions involved.
Verbal Skills
This section measures vocabulary, verbal reasoning, and language logic. Students are asked to work with analogies, synonyms, antonyms, and logic-based classification questions.
60 questions
16 minutes
Focus: Word relationships, vocabulary, logical groupings
Quantitative Skills
Often confused with math, this section actually tests mathematical reasoning more than computation. Questions involve number series, geometric comparisons, and pattern recognition.
52 questions
30 minutes
Focus: Reasoning with numbers, estimation, basic geometry and logic
Reading Comprehension
This section assesses how well students understand written material. Students read short passages and answer questions about main ideas, details, and inferences.
62 questions
25 minutes
Focus: Understanding and analyzing text, vocabulary in context
Mathematics
This is a more traditional math section than the Quantitative Skills section, and it includes a wide range of HSPT math questions, from arithmetic to basic algebra and geometry. Students need to apply core math skills accurately and efficiently.
64 questions
45 minutes
Focus: Computation, word problems, equations, fractions, percentages, geometry
Language Skills
This section evaluates a student’s ability to identify and correct errors in grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and spelling. Some questions may resemble light editing tasks.
60 questions
25 minutes
Focus: Grammar rules, sentence structure, usage, and mechanics
In total, students answer 298 multiple-choice questions, spread across these five core sections. Each question has four answer choices, and all questions are weighted equally—there is no penalty for incorrect answers. Students are encouraged to answer every question, even if they’re unsure. Completing 298 questions in just over two hours may seem daunting, but with focused practice, students can build the pacing and familiarity they need to feel confident on test day.
Optional Sections
Some schools or dioceses may opt to include an additional 40-question subtest beyond the standard five sections of the HSPT. These optional sections—Science or Catholic Religion—are administered using a separate test booklet from the main exam. Because not all testing locations offer these subtests, it’s important to check in advance with your school to see if either will be included on your test day.
The Science subtest evaluates academic achievement through 40 multiple-choice questions covering general knowledge in astronomy, biology, chemistry, earth science, and physics.
The Catholic Religion subtest consists of 40 questions focused on theological concepts, ethical principles, and Church doctrine.
In the next section, we’ll walk through testing policies that cover calculators, scratch paper, and test-day devices.
Can You Use a Calculator on the HSPT?
It’s important to note that students may not use a calculator on the HSPT. In fact, the use of electronic devices is strictly prohibited. This includes:
Calculators
Phones
Smartwatches
Tablets or laptops
Any internet-enabled devices
Proctors will typically instruct students to turn off and store these devices before testing begins. Attempting to use them during the exam may result in score cancellation.
The good news: the HSPT is designed to be completed without a calculator. While some HSPT math questions may involve multi-step problem solving, the arithmetic is generally manageable by hand—especially with practice.
Students are permitted to use scratch paper, which will either be provided by the test proctor or allowed at the desk depending on school policy. Writing out key steps, particularly during the Quantitative and Mathematics sections, can be a helpful tool for managing complex problems.
The key to success without a calculator is familiarity. Practicing without one during study sessions is essential—especially when tackling word problems, fractions, percentages, and geometry questions.
How Long Is the HSPT?
The HSPT takes approximately 3 hours to complete, including time for instructions and short breaks between sections. Students move through five timed sections – Verbal Skills, Quantitative Skills, Reading, Mathematics, and Language Skills – with time limits ranging from 16 to 45 minutes per section.
While the pace is brisk, the test is designed to be finished within the time allotted. That said, time management is crucial. Students should practice working efficiently, especially on HSPT questions that require careful reading or multi-step calculations.
There are no scheduled breaks for snacks or phone use, so it’s important to arrive well-rested, fed, and prepared to stay focused for the full session. Students should bring sharpened pencils, a water bottle, and anything else allowed by the testing school to stay comfortable during the exam.
How Much Does the HSPT Cost?
The cost of the HSPT typically ranges from $20 to $70, but the exact fee depends on the school administering the test. Unlike national tests like the SAT or ACT, students usually pay the fee directly to the host school rather than through a centralized registration system.
Some schools may include the HSPT fee as part of their application process, while others collect it separately on the day of testing. Be sure to check the admissions page of the school where your child will take the test—or call the admissions office directly—for fee details, accepted payment methods, and registration deadlines.
At some schools, fee waivers or accommodations may be available upon request, especially for families applying for tuition assistance.
Understanding HSPT Scoring
Many families preparing for the HSPT want to know how the test is scored, what the scores mean, and how schools use them. While the raw number of correct answers is important, what ultimately appears on score reports is a combination of scaled scores, composite scores, and percentiles – each serving a different purpose in the admissions process. Indeed, understanding how the HSPT is scored can help families interpret score reports and set clear performance goals
Raw Scores
The raw score is the number of questions a student answers correctly in each section. There’s no penalty for incorrect answers, so guessing when unsure is always recommended.
Scaled Scores
Raw scores are converted into scaled scores – typically ranging from 200 to 800 per section – to ensure fairness across different versions of the test. These scaled scores allow admissions teams to compare students even if they took the test on different days. Because the HSPT score range for each section is 200 to 800, schools can more readily compare performance across different versions of the test.
Composite Score
The composite score is the average of a student’s scaled scores across the five main sections. Some schools may place more emphasis on the composite, while others may focus on individual section scores, especially in Math or Language. While an HSPT score calculator to estimate scaled scores and percentiles based on raw scores might be useful, the exact conversion will vary slightly by test form.
Percentiles
The most important part of a student’s HSPT score is the composite national percentile (abbreviated as NP-NS on the score report). This indicates how a student’s performance compares to other test takers. A percentile of 85, for example, means the student scored higher than 85% of peers nationwide.
Does the HSPT Superscore?
No – the HSPT does not superscore. Students typically take the test once, and schools use that single set of scores when making admissions decisions. Unlike tests such as the ACT or SAT, where students can submit multiple test dates and combine highest section scores, the HSPT is administered once per applicant at most schools. It's important to treat test day as your best shot.
In the next section, we’ll look at sample score ranges and explore what is considered a good HSPT score for high school admissions.
What Is a Good HSPT Score?
To make sense of HSPT scoring, it helps to understand how raw scores are converted into scaled scores, and how these are used to calculate percentiles and composite results. A “good” HSPT score depends on the specific schools you're applying to. Most schools consider scores in the 75th percentile or higher to be strong, especially for competitive programs or scholarship consideration. However, each school sets its own standards, so researching your target schools' admissions expectations is key.
Here’s a general HSPT score chart to help interpret percentile rankings and what they might mean for admissions:
| Percentile | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 90–99th | Excellent – Highly competitive |
| 75–89th | Strong – Above average for many schools |
| 50–74th | Average – May meet standard admissions cutoffs |
| Below 50th | Below average – May require additional support or explanation |
Keep in mind that schools review more than just the composite score. Some add emphasis on math, language, or reading, depending on their curriculum or placement needs. Strong scores in key sections can help even if the composite is average.
The best way to define a “good” score is to research the schools you’re applying to, ask about score expectations, and aim to meet or exceed their typical percentile range.
Next, we’ll shift from understanding the test to preparing for it—starting with how to study for the HSPT effectively.
How to Prepare for the HSPT
Wondering how to pass the HSPT test? This starts with a clear plan and steady preparation. The HSPT covers a broad range of skills across five sections, so preparation should be thoughtful and targeted. Fortunately, you don’t need to master every topic to succeed—you just need a plan. Whether you’re aiming for a top percentile or simply hoping to qualify for admission, the right approach can help you make the most of your study time.
What Sections Do Schools Value Most?
While all sections matter, some schools pay special attention to Math, Reading, or Language—especially for placement into honors or accelerated tracks. It's important to review the admissions priorities of your target school and focus on the sections that carry the most weight.
When Should I Start Studying?
Start early. For most students, beginning prep 8–12 weeks before the test allows for gradual skill-building and review. If the HSPT is in December or January, aim to begin studying by early fall.
How Long Should I Study?
A little each day goes further than cramming. We recommend 2–3 short sessions per week at first, then increasing frequency in the final month. Consistency and focused review—especially of consistently missed HSPT questions—are more effective than long, infrequent study blocks.
Best HSPT Preparation Tools
Looking for the most effective ways to study? Here are some trusted HSPT prep resources to help build confidence and skills:
HSPT study guides – Comprehensive books that cover all sections with practice HSPT questions and strategies
Practice tests – Timed, full-length exams are essential for building stamina and identifying weak areas
Online tutoring – One-on-one support can help clarify difficult concepts and provide personalized test strategies
Visit our HSPT and SSAT Prep page to learn more about working with a tutor.
HSPT Tips to Improve Your Score
These HSPT tips and tricks can make a difference—not just in preparation, but on test day itself:
Don’t skip guessing – There’s no penalty for wrong answers, so make educated guesses when needed.
Manage your time – Practice pacing for each section so you know how to move quickly enough without being unduly rushed..
Learn from your mistakes – Review wrong answers carefully to understand why you missed them.
Simulate real test conditions – Practice full-length tests without distractions.
HSPT Test Tips
Get a good night’s sleep the night before
Eat a healthy breakfast—enough to keep energy stable for 2.5 hours
Prepare everything the night before—clothes, pencils, water, directions
Arrive early to avoid any added stress
Stay focused and calm—pace yourself, and don’t dwell on hard questions
What Is the Best HSPT Prep Book?
We recommend these highly rated HSPT prep books available on Amazon:
Each offers a mix of content review, practice questions, and strategies tailored to the HSPT format.
Next, we’ll tackle some of the most frequently asked questions about the HSPT, including timing, structure, and sample questions.
FAQs: Commonly Asked Questions about the HSPT
How long is the HSPT?
The HSPT test length is 2 hours, 21 minutes, but you should plan for about 3 hours in total to allow for brief breaks between sections, instructions, and exam distribution. If you're concerned about total HSPT length, note that each of the five test sections is timed separately, ranging from 16 to 45 minutes. While the pace is fast, the test is designed to be completed without rushing—especially with focused practice ahead of time.
How many questions are on the HSPT?
The test includes a total of 298 multiple-choice questions across all five sections: Verbal, Quantitative, Reading, Mathematics, and Language. Each question has four answer choices, and all are weighted equally.
What kinds of HSPT questions can I expect?
HSPT questions cover a mix of content and reasoning skills. Students can expect vocabulary and logic puzzles in the Verbal section, number patterns in Quantitative, passage-based questions in Reading, arithmetic and geometry problems in Math, and grammar corrections in Language. Practicing each type will help build familiarity and pacing.
Are HSPT math questions difficult?
Some HSPT math questions are straightforward, while others require multi-step thinking. Topics include fractions, percentages, ratios, word problems, algebra, and geometry. The math section is designed to be completed without a calculator, so students should build confidence solving by hand.
Where can I find HSPT sample questions?
Looking for HSPT sample questions? While STS, the test publisher, does not release official practice materials, there are several reputable third-party prep books that offer HSPT practice questions aligned with the test’s format and content. Be selective—some materials are better than others. Choose resources that closely reflect the structure of the real exam, and be sure to take at least one full-length practice test to gauge your readiness.
What are the best ways to practice HSPT test questions?
The best way to prepare is through HSPT test questions that simulate real conditions. Use reputable study guides, take timed practice sections, and review explanations for any missed questions. Mix short review sessions with full-length tests for both skill-building and endurance.
Final Thoughts: Set Yourself Up for Success on the HSPT
Preparing for the HSPT can feel overwhelming—but with the right tools, strategies, and support, students can approach the test with confidence. From understanding the test structure to interpreting your score report, this HSPT study guide is designed to help you focus on what matters most: steady practice, clear goals, and test-day readiness.
Whether you're looking for targeted HSPT tips, help with pacing, or resources like practice questions and prep books, there’s no shortage of ways to prepare effectively. The key is finding a study plan that fits your needs—and sticking with it.
Get Personalized HSPT Support
If your student would benefit from expert guidance, our team of experienced tutors is here to help. We offer one-on-one HSPT prep tailored to your student’s learning style, strengths, and goals. From mastering tricky HSPT math questions to building test-day confidence, we’ll help your student feel prepared and supported every step of the way. Schedule a Free HSPT Consultationto learnmore about our tutoring options and how we can support your student’s success.
