When should my child start preparing for the HSPT in Los Angeles?

The HSPT is usually offered in December or January of 8th grade, which means your prep game should start by late summer or early fall. That gives you a nice, comfy runway—enough time for skill-building, mock testing, and learning how to navigate the format without stress-eating through the holidays.

We recommend 3 to 5 months of prep for most students. It sounds like a lot, but between volleyball practice, school plays, and cousins visiting from out of town, time disappears fast. Our approach keeps things structured but flexible. We run diagnostics to see where your child stands and build a smart plan from there. And if you’re a little late to the game, don’t worry—we’ve got turbo-charged prep plans that still get results. Early prep means less pressure, more confidence, and a calmer path to test day.