At the middle school level, we use the term "selective" to refer to middle schools for gifted students. Some selective schools have an entrance exam. Others don't have an exam, but do have minimum requirements in terms of scores on standardized tests. Some require a written application and an interview. Some have auditions and accept children with artistic or musical talents. Some zoned neighborhood schools have an accelerated track called "special progress" for high-achieving students. Call your district for details.

At the high school level, there are "selective schools" that use tests or other screening methods to choose their student body. Students may be chosen for their achievement level or specific talent. Selective schools and programs are often referred to as "screened" programs by the Department of Education.

The city's nine specialized high schools, established under New York State Law (2590 — Section G), are highly selective. Any 8th or 9th grade student living in the five boroughs may apply. The eight so-called exam schools: Stuyvesant High School (in Manhattan), Bronx High School of Science, Brooklyn Technical High School, Staten Island Tech, and Brooklyn Latin, plus three small specialized high schools located on CUNY campuses: High School of American Studies at Lehman College (in the Bronx), the High School of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering at City College (in Manhattan), and the Queens High School for the Sciences at York College) have one admissions test, given in October or November. Students who move to the city after the test is given may take it the following year in late August. The specialized arts high school, Fiorello LaGuardia High School of Music and Art and Performing Arts,in Manhattan requires an audition (in dance, voice, instrumental music, drama, technical theater or a portfolio in studio art) in November and December. Students who move to the city after the auditions are held, may audition in the following year, usually in late August. For more information about the admissions process and sample tests, see the Specialized High Schools Student Handbook.

Other selective schools have their own admissions criteria which might include an interview, essay or exam.

Screened programs within some neighborhood high schools look at students' past achievement and attendance.