Ivy Tutors Network launches free SHSAT mock exam as NYC test shifts online

Ivy Tutors Network has launched MockExamApp.com and a free SHSAT practice day for NYC eighth graders as the exam moves to a computer-adaptive format this fall. The new platform uses the city’s published specifications and IRT-based scoring to help families prepare for the updated test.

Why it matters: - Nearly 30,000 NYC eighth graders are preparing for the Specialized High School Admissions Test’s first computer-adaptive version. - The updated format changes how students see questions in real time, which raises the stakes for practice that matches the new rules. - Ivy Tutors Network is offering free access so more families can prepare without paying for private test prep.

What happened: - Ivy Tutors Network launched MockExamApp.com and Free SHSAT Day. - Free SHSAT Day is a free public mock exam open to any NYC eighth grader. - The company announced the launch on September 25, 2026. - Registration for Free SHSAT Day is open through October 8 at free registration. - Students who register by October 8 will receive a test link by email and can take the exam any time on October 10.

The details: - The SHSAT begins moving to a computer-adaptive format this fall. - The exam will adjust question difficulty in real time based on student performance. - MockExamApp uses Item Response Theory, the same psychometric approach used in exams such as the GMAT and GRE. - The platform was built from a large question bank and the NYC Department of Education’s published specifications. - The mock exam includes 50 ELA items and 50 Math items. - The platform includes Technology-Enhanced Items, including interactive Math and multi-response questions. - The test format uses one-directional navigation and locked answers to mirror the new exam rules. - MockExamApp offers standard-time and extended-time versions. - The platform provides scaled scores and detailed reporting. - All content is human-written and reviewed by three educators. - Ivy Tutors Network says no AI is used to generate questions. - Ivy Tutors Network is an approved NYC DOE vendor operating in more than 45 public schools. - MockExamApp was built to meet DOE security requirements. - The company says MockExamApp is a practice tool based on DOE specifications, not an official SHSAT exam or a replica of the DOE’s item bank or scoring model.

Between the lines: - The move reflects a broader shift in test prep, where students need familiarity with adaptive testing, not just subject knowledge. - By opening the mock exam to all families, Ivy Tutors Network is positioning the launch as both a prep product and a public-service offer. - The emphasis on human review and DOE-aligned security standards is meant to reassure families and schools as digital testing expands.

What’s next: - Families can register for Free SHSAT Day through October 8. - Students will take the mock exam on October 10. - Ivy Tutors Network will continue positioning MockExamApp as a prep option for the new SHSAT format.

The bottom line: - As the SHSAT goes adaptive, Ivy Tutors Network is betting that realistic practice and free access will become a major advantage for NYC families.