SSAT
Content of Program
The diagnostic test allows students-who are often fairly new to the experience of standardized testing-to gain at least an initial sense of what to expect on an official SSAT. Our program emphasizes the core verbal reasoning skills, math concepts and algorithms, close reading techniques, and vocabulary that are the foundation of success for any student entering high school. Using mnemonics and other approaches, tutors teach their students both general and specific approaches to solving the wide range of problems that recur on the SSAT. Through theory, practice drills, and homework, we help students become more attuned to the concepts and material underlying the various question types. Timed practice tests provide opportunities for the exercise and refinement of the knowledge and skills emphasized during tutoring sessions.
Length of Program
Students typically start preparing for the SSAT several months before they intend to take the official test. Diagnostic test results and other considerations allow us to design an appropriate program for the individual student.
An Additional Option: the ISEE
- Many students preparing for the SSAT also prepare for and take the Independent School Entrance Examination (ISEE).
- The two tests are produced by different testing agencies for slightly different purposes: the SSAT is a 50-year-old national test associated with boarding school admissions, while the ISEE is a newer, more regional test associated with private school admissions. Overall, however, the tests are similar in content and in purpose.
- Many independent schools accept either test, but some schools prefer one test to the other.
- Thus, applicants must be sure to check the specific admissions requirements at the schools to which they are applying.
What Kind of Exam Is It?
- The SSAT is used for admission to many independent (private) middle schools and high schools.
- The SSAT format for all students is the same, but the content is adjusted for different grade levels:
- Lower Test is for students currently in grades 5-7
- Upper Test is for students currently in grades 8-11
When Is It Taken?
- The SSAT is given frequently throughout the year, usually in October, November, December, January, February, March, April, and June.
- For admissions purposes, schools typically consider the administrations in October, November, December, and January of the school year prior to the intended matriculation date.
| Section | Number of Questions | Minutes per Section | Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal | 60 | 30 | Synonyms and analogies |
| Quantitative (Math) | 50 total | Two 30-minute sections | Arithmetic, basic algebra, and basic geometry |
| Reading Comprehension | 40 | 40 | Passage-based critical reading |
| Essay | 1 | 25 | Student-produced response to a given topic |
How Is It Scored?
- The Verbal, Quantitative, and Reasoning sections are each scored on a scale of 440-710 (Lower Level) or 500-800 (Upper Level). Percentile ranks are also assigned to these scores.
- The Essay is not scored but rather photocopied and sent to schools along with the SSAT score report.
- Unlike the ISEE, the SSAT deducts a fraction of a point from the raw score for each incorrect answer.
Anything Else?
For additional information about preparing and registering for the SSAT, please follow the link below:External Link: http://www.ssat.org (link will open in a new window)