STEM-Focused High Schools | New York City

After middle school, STEM-focused public high schools can offer exciting opportunities for your child’s personal and academic growth. While some specialized STEM public high schools are highly competitive (e.g. Bronx High School of Science), New York City boasts over 400 public high schools, many of which focus on STEM programming.

Why should my child go to a STEM-focused high school?
At a STEM-focused high school, students gain exposure to STEM concepts through hands-on learning experiences, which prepares them for college and can pave the way to high-paying careers in STEM fields. Students will build foundational STEM knowledge, strengthen their critical thinking skills, and join communities of peers and mentors who are passionate about STEM. With a supportive environment and opportunities to prepare for college and career, a STEM-focused high school can lay the groundwork for your child’s future success.

How do I learn about STEM-focused high schools for my child?
To find STEM-focused high schools in New York City, you can start by using the NYC My Schools directory. Filter the directory by interest area and location to find STEM-focused high schools that best align with your child’s interests and family’s needs.

As you navigate the process of finding the right school for your child, make sure to prioritize what matters most to you. Here are some questions you might consider when applying:

Is it close to my home?
How supportive and diverse is the learning community?
Do they have programs connected to my child’s interests?
Does the school require an admissions test?

Once you have done some initial research, make time to visit the school and set up a tour with your child to experience the environment to make sure it’s a fit. Use the My Schools Calendar to find an Open House or School Tour.

When do I start the application process?
While application season typically occurs during the fall of 8th grade, it’s never too early to start planning! In 7th grade, students and families should research and identify potential schools of interest to understand admission requirements and prepare as necessary. Before the application cycle opens, you prioritize your top 12 choices and begin drafting application materials.

In the fall of 8th grade, students and families submit their applications. Application decisions are generally made the following spring. Refer to our timeline below for guidance on the high school selection and preparation process.

High School Selection & Preparation Guidance

For more comprehensive information about applying to high schools with STEM programming, visit NYCPS My Schools (High School).

STEM-focused middle and high schools

Gotham Tech (Queens): Gotham Tech is a Queens high school designed by leaders at NYC First, one of the most popular robotics education programs in New York City. The school focuses on supporting students to problem solve creatively and think critically in a warm and joyful environment.
Program highlights: Gotham Tech is a hub for innovation and supports students to participate… Read more >

New Explorations into Science, Technology, and Math School (NEST+m) (Manhattan): NEST+m is a K-12 school based in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. In addition to the comprehensive STEM curriculum, the school encourages community service and self-expression through art.
Program highlights: Offers five world languages and has over 60+ students clubs and sports to join. There are… Read more >

Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) (Brooklyn): P-TECH is located in Brooklyn and offers a unique, six-year (grades 9 – 14) program where students can earn an associate degree in a STEM field as part of their Pathways to College and Careers Program.
Program Highlights: Offers a two-year associate’s degree from New York City College of Technology… Read more >

Other STEM-focused schools

For a comprehensive list of NYC high schools, visit NYC My Schools directory.
For additional information or questions, contact [email protected].