How to Get Into the High School of Your Choice

Download Article
Download Article

If you’re in 8th grade, you might be getting ready to apply to high schools. This is the first step to prepare yourself for your future career, so it’s a pretty important decision. However, you can ensure that you have a good chance at getting into the school of your choice by picking schools that fit your goals, putting together a strong application, and doing well in school and on standardized tests.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Picking Your Potential Schools

Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8a\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8a\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Some states require that every school accepts a certain number of students from the immediate surrounding area, like the town or borough. Try to prioritize applications to schools that are in your town, and apply to a few other schools outside of your town if you want to. [1]
    • Some schools are allowed to accept students outside of the surrounding area, while others aren’t. Be sure to check the regulations in your area.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/71\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/71\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Bring a folder and a pen to the fair, and come with a list of 10-12 schools that you’d like to learn more about. While you’re at the fair, talk to the admissions representatives at the schools where you’re thinking about applying, and ask them questions about applying to the school and what life is like as a student. [2]
    • In some cities, like New York City, the Department of Education hosts a large fair with all of the high schools in the city. Some areas even have additional fairs for individual towns and boroughs.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/16\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/16\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    [3] Check the school’s website and schedule a tour for potential students with the admissions office. Some schools might even have special days where they offer tours for all of the potential students at once. [4]
    • If you can’t schedule a tour, try attending an event at the school, like a sports game or a musical, to get a better understanding of the school and students.
    • Keep in mind that some schools consider whether or not you came for a tour in their admission decisions. If you think they might, it’s best to play it safe and take a tour.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8a\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8a\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    While you’re on your tour, don’t be afraid to ask questions. If a staff member is giving the tour, wait until the end, and then ask if they have an admissions rubric for potential students. This will outline how they decide who gets into the school and will tell you what they think are the most important parts of your application. [5]
    • In some states, each school can have their own admissions rubric. However, some states have one general rubric for all high schools.
    • If you have any questions, don't be afraid to email the admissions counselor and ask. [6]
    5. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Filling out Your Applications

Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ea\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ea\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Depending on where you live, you might be able to apply to an unlimited number of schools, or you might only be able to pick a few. Try to apply to as many schools as possible to increase your chances of getting accepted. Pick a variety of schools, including competitive schools, local schools, and specialty programs. [7]
    • For example, in New York City, you can apply to up to 12 schools. Try to apply to your 12 top schools, even if you don’t love all of them. Remember to rank them in order from your favorite to least favorite on your application.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Depending on where you live, there might be one online application for all of the schools in the area, or each school might have a different application. Make sure to answer all of the questions in the application and include all of the required materials for the application so the school doesn’t disqualify you. [8]
    • Depending on your location, you might be required to submit test scores, do an interview, ask for recommendations, or answer written questions.
    • If you aren’t sure about how to access an online application or don’t know how to find a paper application, ask your teacher, a parent, or a guidance counselor to help you.
    • Be sure to write down your username and password for your online applications so that you can log in and work on the application when you need to.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Your parents might have to help you create your profile for the applications, including questions about where they pay taxes and other information that you might not know. If you don’t understand any part of the application, don’t be afraid to ask a parent for help. [9]
    • Studies show that students have a better chance of getting into more competitive schools when their families are involved. [10]
    • If your parents aren’t able to answer a question that you have, you can ask a teacher or guidance counselor to help you find an answer.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7c\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7c\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    to write positive recommendation letters for you if needed. Try to pick teachers and other staff members who you’ve had good experiences with or who you learned a lot from. About 1-2 months before your application is due, make an appointment to talk to them about your goals so they can write you the best recommendation possible.
    • For example, you can approach your teacher say, “Hi, Mrs. Bradley. I’m going to be submitting my application to McKinley High School next month, and I was wondering if you would feel comfortable writing a positive recommendation letter for me? I really enjoyed your class and am proud of the fact that I got a good grade. Are you able to meet with me after school this week to talk about my application?”
    • Some schools require that you have a recommendation from a teacher, an administrator, or both.
    • Even if you weren’t very talkative in class, if you did well and worked hard, your teacher will probably have nice things to say about you.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/04\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/04\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Check the school’s website to view the deadlines for different programs and students. To submit online, in most cases all you have to do is click “submit” or “confirm application”. For a paper application, be sure to address and stamp the envelope and place it in the mail at least 1 day before the deadline. [11]
    • Some states have a general application deadline for all schools in the state. Most schools will have this deadline posted on their website.
    • If you apply late, there’s a chance your application won’t be looked at.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/91\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/91\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    if you’re applying to a private school. Ask a parent or teacher to hold a practice interview with you a few weeks before your real interview. Dress up in your interview clothes, shake their hand, and answer their questions as if it was your real interview. This will help to get rid of some of your nervousness before the actual interview. [12]
    • For example, you can have them ask you questions like “What’s your favorite subject and why?” “Why do you want to come to this school?” and “How do you plan to be a good student at our school?”
    • After the interview, talk with your parent or teacher about what you did well and where you can improve for your real interview.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/29\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-11-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-11-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/29\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-11-Version-2.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-11-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    It’s easy to get nervous while you wait to hear back from your top schools. Try to stay busy by focusing on schoolwork or other hobbies. Remember that you can be successful no matter what school you go to, as long as you try your hardest and continue to get good grades. [13]
    • Once you’re accepted into a school, try to let them know as soon as possible whether or not you’ll be able to go.
    • If you don’t get into the school that you wanted, check to see if you can re-apply during a second round of admissions or appeal the school’s decision. Otherwise, try to accept a place at the best school where you got accepted into. [14]
    8. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Meeting Academic Requirements

Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b7\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-12-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b7\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-12-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    [15] Most schools look at grades from 5th grade until 8th grade, so make sure you’re trying your hardest in all of your classes. Try to aim for As and Bs in all of your classes to get into the best school possible. [16]
    • Use a planner and calendar to help you keep track of all your assignments. [17]
    • Some schools won’t accept anyone with a grade of C or lower.
    • If you do have a low grade, you can sometimes attach a short essay to your application explaining why you didn’t do well in the class. Remember to be honest and talk about how it helped you grow as a student.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/cd\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-13-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-13-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/cd\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-13-Version-2.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-13-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Download practice tests and study guides for your state exam from the Internet, or purchase a practice booklet at the bookstore. Work through the problems on the tests, and circle any that give you trouble. Then, go back and review those skills and figure out the problem. [18]
    • If you’re having trouble with many of the problems, consider asking your parents to send you to a tutor or sign up for after-school tutoring.
    • Most states require a standardized test or a school admissions test for students who are applying to high school.
    • Sometimes these tests are given during class time, but other times you have to sign up to take them outside of class. Check your state’s rules for more information.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a1\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a1\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-14.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    [19] Some schools look at how many classes you’ve missed throughout the last 3-4 years. Remember to go to all of your classes unless you’re sick or have another valid excuse. If you have a valid excuse, talk to your teachers or principal about getting the absence removed or “exempted” from your attendance record. [20]
    • If the absence is “exempted,” the high school will be able to see that you missed a day of school, but there will be a note that the absence was for an approved reason.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ee\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ee\/Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-15.jpg\/aid511394-v4-728px-Get-Into-the-High-School-of-Your-Choice-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Competitive high schools look for students who have many different skills. Show them all of your talents by learning how to play an instrument, acting in a musical, playing on a sports team, or joining another type of club at your school. If you’re really passionate about something, don’t be afraid to talk to them about it in your application! [21]
    • For example, if you’re really interested in computer science and want to go to a science high school, you can join, or even start, a robotics team at your school.
    • If you play an instrument and want to go to a performing arts school, show them that you’re interested in a variety of types of performance by performing in the school play or singing with the chorus.
    5. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How do I know what I need to get into a high school?
    Katie Styzek
    Professional School Counselor
    Katie Styzek is a Professional School Counselor for Chicago Public Schools. Katie earned a BS in Elementary Education with a Concentration in Mathematics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She served as a middle school mathematics, science, and social studies teacher for three years prior to becoming a counselor. She holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in School Counseling from DePaul University and an MA in Educational Leadership from Northeastern Illinois University. Katie holds an Illinois School Counselor Endorsement License (Type 73 Service Personnel), an Illinois Principal License (formerly Type 75), and an Illinois Elementary Education Teaching License (Type 03, K – 9). She is also Nationally Board Certified in School Counseling from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.
    Katie Styzek
    Professional School Counselor
    Expert Answer
    I suggest you email a counselor from the high school you want to attend. They'll be able to answers any questions you have about admission requirements.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 2
  • Question
    Do your sixth grade grades count toward high school admissions?
    Community Answer
    It depends on the school. Most usually look throughout your education years, but they tend to focus on 7th and 8th grade years. This includes grades, test scores, behavior, and extra curricular activities, such as clubs and sports.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 9 Helpful 104
  • Question
    When do you do the interview?
    Community Answer
    Not all schools do interviews, but if the school does hold interviews, it will be some time during the application process. The school will notify you when you are scheduled to be interviewed.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 13 Helpful 63
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • If you’re not sure about a school, try talking to some of the students who go there. Ask them how they like the school and if they feel like they’re learning a lot.
        Thanks
      • Always be honest in your application. If you lie, it’s very likely that the school will find out at some point, and they can take back your acceptance.
        Thanks
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Survive High School
      How to
      Keep Your School Clean
      Free & Easy Ways to Find Old Yearbooks
      How to
      Become Valedictorian
      How to
      Have a Fun Last Day of School
      How to
      Skip a Grade
      How to
      Make Your School a Better Place
      How to
      Go to School
      How to
      Convince Your Parents to Let You Switch Schools
      How to
      Be Happy on School Days
      How to
      Register a Child for School
      How to
      Excuse Yourself from Unfinished Homework
      How to
      Change In a School Locker Room
      How to
      Start an Afterschool Program
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.greatschools.org/gk/articles/working-the-system/
      2. ↑ https://nypost.com/2015/09/27/how-to-get-into-the-public-high-school-you-want/
      3. ↑ Katie Styzek. Professional School Counselor. Expert Interview. 28 October 2020.
      4. ↑ http://www.gettherightschool.co.uk/howtochoosetherightschoolforyourchild.html
      5. ↑ https://nypost.com/2015/09/27/how-to-get-into-the-public-high-school-you-want/
      6. ↑ Katie Styzek. Professional School Counselor. Expert Interview. 28 October 2020.
      7. ↑ https://www.greatschools.org/gk/articles/working-the-system/
      8. ↑ https://www.philasd.org/studentplacement/services/school-selection/
      9. ↑ http://www.gettherightschool.co.uk/howtochoosetherightschoolforyourchild.html
      1. ↑ http://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/reports/2017/09/getting-into-high-school-in-philadelphia
      2. ↑ https://nypost.com/2015/09/27/how-to-get-into-the-public-high-school-you-want/
      3. ↑ https://www.metro.us/lifestyle/how-to-ace-your-private-school-interview/tmWniC---d3kq6A2z22mCk
      4. ↑ https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/2991131/secondary-schools-admissions-applications-child-isnt-accepted-first-choice/
      5. ↑ https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/2991131/secondary-schools-admissions-applications-child-isnt-accepted-first-choice/
      6. ↑ Katie Styzek. Professional School Counselor. Expert Interview. 28 October 2020.
      7. ↑ http://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/reports/2017/09/getting-into-high-school-in-philadelphia
      8. ↑ Katie Styzek. Professional School Counselor. Expert Interview. 28 October 2020.
      9. ↑ https://nypost.com/2015/09/27/how-to-get-into-the-public-high-school-you-want/
      10. ↑ Katie Styzek. Professional School Counselor. Expert Interview. 28 October 2020.
      11. ↑ https://nypost.com/2015/09/27/how-to-get-into-the-public-high-school-you-want/
      12. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/involved-school.html

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To get into the high school of your choice, you’ll want to do well at school and get good recommendations. Study hard for your exams and assignments so you’ll get the best grades you can. Make sure you attend as many classes as you can, since many high schools take your attendance into account. With some high schools, especially the more competitive ones, you’ll have a better chance of getting in if you do extra curricular activities like sports and other clubs. To get good recommendations, ask the teachers you know well and you’ve had good experiences, since they’ll probably write more positive letters for you. Ask them as early as possible so they’ll have more time to write your recommendations. For more tips, including how to prepare for a private school interview, read on!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 193,446 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Dasha Sitkevich

        Aug 5, 2016

        "All the steps actually helped me. Now I know what I need for my high school. Thank you a lot for this great info!"
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement