What is the High School of American Studies at Lehman College
The High School of American Studies at Lehman College (HSAS) is a public honors humanities small school in the Bronx, New York, offering grades 9–12. It is a collaboration between the New York City Department of Education, Lehman College of the City University of New York, and the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. Students follow an American studies–focused curriculum with an emphasis on history, literature, writing, and civic engagement. Admission is by application and entrance exam, with priority given to New York City residents. The school aims to prepare students for rigorous college coursework while grounding them in historical thinking and analytical writing.
Admission Process and Requirements
Admission to HSAS is selective and centered on an application and standardized test or Otis–Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT) score. Applicants typically submit elementary or middle school report cards, teacher recommendations, and a personal statement or essay. Priority is given to NYC residents zoned to Districts 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, and 23. Applicants must meet academic benchmarks and demonstrate strong writing and reading skills. Oversubscription means not all eligible applicants are admitted; appeals are rarely granted. Families are advised to confirm current admissions policies with the school each year, as processes can change with DOE updates.
Key admissions steps
- Submit middle school application and academic records
- Provide standardized test or OLSAT scores, if applicable
- Teacher recommendations and personal statement
- Attend information sessions and interviews when offered
- Accept seat offer by deadline and complete enrollment paperwork
Curriculum and Academic Focus
HSAS follows an American studies model that integrates history, literature, and social studies, aligned with New York State standards. Coursework emphasizes primary-source analysis, research writing, and critical thinking. The school offers Advanced Placement (AP) classes and college-level courses in partnership with Lehman College, allowing students to earn college credit. English Language Arts and social studies are central, while math, science, foreign language, and arts courses round out a balanced program. Students are expected to maintain strong organizational habits and independent reading to succeed in this rigorous humanities environment.
Sample course sequence
| Grade | Thematic focus | Sample courses |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Colonial to Civil War America | American History 9, English 9 |
| 10 | Industrialization to Modern Era | Global History, English 10 |
| 11 | 20th–21st Century America | U.S. History, English 11/AP Language |
| 12 | Capstone and electives | AP U.S. History, AP Literature, college seminars |
College Preparation and Outcomes
HSAS emphasizes college readiness through writing-intensive assignments, document-based questions, and research projects. Many graduates enroll in CUNY and SUNY schools, as well as competitive four-year programs. Counselors support students with course selection, exam registration, and the college application process, including essays and financial aid. The partnership with Lehman College enables dual enrollment opportunities, which can ease the transition to campus-level coursework. Families are encouraged to track admission and matriculation outcomes to assess long-term program effectiveness.
College outcomes snapshot
| Metric | Estimate or Range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Graduation rate | High (school-reported) | Reflects cohort completion within standard time |
| Regents exam pass rates | Above NYC average | Indicators of college-ready performance |
| Dual enrollment credits | Variable by year | Earned through Lehman College partnerships |
| Typical next-step enrollment | CUNY/SUNY and selective colleges | Includes in-state and out-of-state institutions |
Campus, Schedule, and Extracurriculars
Located on the Lehman College campus in the Bronx, HSAS provides a college-like setting with access to library resources, dining, and campus events. The school day runs approximately 8:20 a.m. to 2:20 p.m., with a fixed period schedule; early dismissal is uncommon. Extracurricular offerings may include debate, theater, student government, and community service, though activity availability can vary by year. Transportation options include NYC school bus service and MetroCard assistance where eligible. The calendar follows the NYC public school schedule, with adjustments for teacher development days and holidays.
Quick comparison at a glance
| Feature | HSAS | Typical NYC Comprehensive School |
|---|---|---|
| Grade span | 9–12 | 9–12 |
| Admission method | Application + entrance exam/interview | Zoned or lottery |
| Curriculum focus | American studies, humanities, honors | General or diverse pathways |
| College credit | Dual enrollment via Lehman College | Varies by school |
Special Programs and Supports
HSAS offers honors and Advanced Placement coursework, aligning with an academically rigorous humanities track. English Language Learner and special education services are provided in compliance with Individualized Education Programs and Section 504 plans. Summer bridge programs and advisory structures help new students adjust to the expectations of an honors curriculum. Families should contact the student support team early to coordinate services and interventions, ensuring that appropriate accommodations are in place each semester.
Considerations and Next Steps
HSAS is a strong option for students who thrive in a reading- and writing-intensive environment and are interested in American history and civic life. Families should review admissions timelines carefully, prepare required documents, and attend information sessions to understand expectations. It is advisable to confirm current policies, testing requirements, and transportation options directly with the school or local DOE office each year. Families may also compare outcomes and course offerings with other honors programs to determine the best fit for academic goals.