CPS Selective Enrollment Test Prep

Prepare for Success with our Online Course with live instructors for the academic center test in Chicago public schools.

This is the test students take in 6th grade for entrance to the academic centers in 7th and 8th grade!

(6-weeks course)

Proven Results

Our virtual test prep program has consistently delivered outstanding results for over 15 years with over 90% of our tutored students achieving a qualifying score for admission to Chicago's Selective Enrollment Schools.

About the Test?

Academic centers are located in selective enrollment high schools and challenges students in advanced classes in English, Social Studies, Science, Mathematics, World Language, and Fine Arts. To be eligible, students must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and pass an admissions exam. The selection process uses a points system, with a total of 600 points possible, divided equally between previous school year's grades (reading , math science and social students) and admissions exam scores.

SEE SAMPLE LESSON BELOW

Prep early with The Critical Thinking Child (CTC) for expert test preparation.

Our experienced tutors will guide your child to excel on the CPS Academic Center Admissions Test a critical component of the selective enrollment process.

The Academic center test timing varies over the past years but generally takes about 120-minutes The program places an emphasis on critical thinking, reasoning, problem solving, and creativity. Verbal and non-verbal questions are included. on the exam.

Dates: Select at checkout

Note to Parents : All dates below are for Fall and Winter SY26-27 ( see summer program on our website for summer 2026 courses)

Sunday 1pm to 3pm - Sep 6, 13, 20, 27, Oct 4, Oct 11

Sunday 1pm to 3pm - Oct 18, 25, Nov 1, 8, 15, 22

Sunday 3pm to 5pm - Oct 18, 25, Nov 1, 8, 15, 22

Sunday 1pm to 3pm - Nov 15, 22, 29, Dec 6, 13, 20

Sunday 3pm to 5pm - Nov 15, 22, 29, Dec 6, 13, 20

Sunday 1pm to 3pm - Dec 13, 20, 27, Jan 3, 10, 17

Sunday 3pm to 5pm - Dec 13, 20, 27, Jan 3, 10, 17

Program features:

• Small group instruction led by live virtual tutors
  (6 -weeks course + 2 bonus summer sessions)
• 500+Practice questions, quizzes, weekly homework assignment and parent progress reports.
• Two full-length mock practice exams to familiarize your child with the test format and pacing.
• Guided instruction, skills-based practice, and test pacing strategies to improve performance and build confidence
• Targeted skill development in verbal and nonverbal questions.
• Parent Updates: 24/7 access to portal to view your child's scores summarizing topics covered in class + Office hours to keep you informed and involved in your child's progress

A link with details on how to join the class will be emailed to you at least 30 min before class starts. You’ll need the ability to stream audio and video. Be sure to check your promotion and spam folder.

TERMS/ REFUND POLICY:

• No refunds after the date of the first session. No make-up session permitted - no exceptions please.
• *Policy note- Student should stick to assigned session block as session transfer will result in additional fees.
• We reserve the right to cancel a session date if participation numbers are not adequate
• *Results may vary and placement into selective school is not guaranteed.
  

Help your high-achieving 6th/7th grader get into a top school with our live virtual test prep program.

ENROLL TODAY!