Jr. LINK Upcoming Events

We’re planning a wonderful year of helpful and educational programming for our Jr. LINK Scholars!

Saturday Academy

Mark your calendars now! We’re hosting three Saturday Academy sessions this year:

• October 25, 2025
• January 31, 2026
• April 25, 2026

Time: 9am–3:30pm
Location: TBA

Saturday Academy will cover topics such as leadership development, career exploration, Capstone projects, and more! Stay tuned for more information about what’s planned for each session!

Class of 2030 High School Selection

When it comes to your academic career, 8th grade is crucial. It’s important to start the process of selecting a high school at the beginning of your 8th grade year or earlier. Please take note of the important dates below to get the ball rolling for Catholic High School Entrance Exams and CPS Selective Enrollment High Schools. For private high school admissions, please inquire with the school directly.

Catholic High School Entrance Exam

The Catholic High School Entrance Exam will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025. We recommend consulting directly with the Catholic high school where you intend to enroll for the 2026/27 school year. The Archdiocese of Chicago website lists their Catholic high schools, including links to their admission information. Fall open houses and shadow day information can also be found on the individual school websites.

Chicago Public Schools Selective Enrollment Programs

There are 11 selective enrollment high school programs at CPS, which provide academically advanced students with a challenging college preparatory experience. Applicants can apply to up to six of these programs. Seats are limited, and admission is highly competitive.

High School Admissions Test (HSAT) 

All GoCPS applicants applying to 9th grade take the High School Admissions Test (HSAT) in 8th grade.

Current CPS Students (including charters): The test will be scheduled and administered at your school during a regular school day.

Non-CPS Students: You must create an account and register for the test on the GoCPS application and choose the date and location for your test. (Students must be actively seeking a GoCPS program in order to take the test.)

See important information dates below for CPS High School Admissions. For more detailed information, visit the GoCPS website.

Important Dates for CPS High School Admissions:

• September 23: GoCPS Application Opens
• October 8: In-school HSAT for current CPS/charter students (Registration not required)
• October 15: Alternative Language HSAT for current CPS/charter students (Registration not required)
• October 18-19: HSAT for non-CPS students (Registration required)
• October 25-26: HSAT for non-CPS students (Registration required)
• November 14: GoCPS application closes at 5pm