In previous years, the online writing sample has been utilized by only one high school, Parkway Center City Middle College.  This year, that very same writing sample will be required by the following four additional high schools:

• Central High School – Minimum Writing Sample Score (22)
• George Washington Carver High School of Engineering and Science – Minimum Writing Sample Score (17)
• Julia R. Masterman High School – Minimum Writing Sample Score (22)
• The Academy at Palumbo High – Minimum Writing Sample Score (17)
• Parkway Center City Middle College – Minimum Writing Sample Score (17)

The writing sample score for 8th grade students applying to 9th grade for SY22-23 has been updated to include the following rounded scores:

Central High School – 21.5 – 21.9
George Washington Carver High School of Engineering and Science – 16.5 – 16.9
Julia R. Masterman High School – 21.5 – 21.9
The Academy at Palumbo High – 16.5 – 16.9
Parkway Center City Middle College – 16.5 – 16.9

Writing Sample Process

Once the Selection Application window has closed, any student who has chosen one of the 5 high schools listed above will be asked to write and submit a proctored writing sample to be considered as a candidate for those schools.

• Between November 29th through December 16th, School District of Philadelphia students will participate in a proctored, online writing sample during the school day at their current school.
• Your school will be responsible for ensuring all interested 8th grade students complete the online writing sample. Contact your school counselor with any questions.

Non-District students will be required to register at one of the 6 District sites for a proctored, online writing sample.

• Registration will begin on Tuesday, November 23, 2021.
• Registration for each session will close 48 hours prior to the start time OR when the session is full.
• The registration link will be sent to the guardians’ email addresses associated with the School Selection application.
• The proctored writing sample sessions will be offered at one of 6 locations: one of 5 high schools listed above OR at 440 N. Broad Street. Families are encouraged to register at the site that is closest to their home or works best with the time slots offered.
• A student ID or other form of photo identification will be required at the time of the writing sample.
• Families are encouraged to register early so we can ensure we have enough spots for all applicants.
• Providing the writing sample at one of the five high schools requiring the writing sample DOES NOT guarantee admittance into that school.