SSAT Exam Prep

What is the SSAT?

The SSAT (Secondary School Admissions Test) is a standardized test administered to students between 3rd – 11th grades. The test measures quantitative (math), reading, verbal and writing skills to ensure children possess the necessary skills to be successful in a college preparatory program. There is also an experimental section, which contains mixed content from math, reading and verbal, but is not counted toward the reported score. The test is administered in a multiple-choice format, with the exception of the writing sample.

Character Snapshot for Admissions in a Private School – Free Interview

The Snapshot is one component of an admission process that can, at times, be complex and stressful. During the private school admission journey, students and families have a lot to do—from finding your right-fit school, to taking the SSAT, to writing an admission essay, to collecting application materials, to submitting the Standard Application Online.

The Snapshot’s benefit to both admissions professionals and families is that it showcases many of the intangible character skills that make your child who they are by measuring _initiative, intellectual engagement, open-mindedness, resilience, self-control, social awareness, and teamwork.

The Character Skills Snapshot is the missing piece of the private school admissions puzzle. A holistic measure of student preferences, attitudes, and beliefs toward seven character skills, the Snapshot complements standardized tests such as the SSAT by helping admission teams get to know who your child is in addition to what they know — letting their uniqueness shine.

Steps Forward:

Process

There are three levels for the test:

Elementary Level – Grades 3 – 4 (for students testing for grades 4 – 5)
Middle Level – Grades 5 – 7 (for students testing for grades 6 – 8)
Upper Level – Grades 8 – 11 (for students testing for grades 9 – 12

Elementary Level

Middle Level

Upper Level

Section	Number of Questions	Minutes per Section	Content
Quantitative/Math	30	30	Arithmetic, basic algebra, basic geometry
Verbal	30	20	Synonyms and analogies
BREAK	–	15	–
Reading	28	30	Passage-based critical reading
Writing Sample	1 (unscored)	15	Picture prompt
Experimental	15 – 17	15	Math, Verbal, Reading

Section	Number of Questions	Minutes per Section	Content
Writing Sample	1 (unscored)	25	Choice of two prompts
Break	–	10	–
Quantitative	25	30	Arithmetic, elementary algebra, geometry, other concepts
Reading	40	40	Writing devices, vocabulary, literature, and figurative language
Break	–	10	–
Verbal	60	30	Synonyms and analogies
Quantitative	25	30	Arithmetic, elementary algebra, geometry, other concepts
Experimental	16	15	Quantitative, Reading, Verbal

Section	Number of Questions	Minutes per Section	Content
Writing Sample	1 (unscored)	25	Choice of two prompts
Break	–	10	–
Quantitative	25	30	Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and statistics
Reading	40	40	Writing devices, vocabulary, literature, and figurative language
Break	–	10	–
Verbal	60	30	Synonyms and analogies
Quantitative	25	30	Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and statistics
Experimental	16	15	Quantitative, Reading, Verbal

SSAT Process Step by Step

STEP 1 – Learn about your SSAT options

When, where, and how your child takes the SSAT depends on their age and location. Review the testing options now, to determine the best one for your child. Please note that the options vary between the Upper, Middle, and Elementary levels.

STEP 2 – Explore accommodations and equitable testing

Students with disabilities requiring accommodations must apply and get approval before registering. Students without a computer or stable internet connection at home can request an equity tech kit for the SSAT at Home or Character Skills Snapshot. Financially disadvantaged families may also apply for a fee waiver.

STEP 3 – Register and schedule

For paper testing, you will register and schedule at the same time. SSAT at Home and Prometric have a two-step process where you register first and then follow the subsequent prompt to schedule. Combine the SSAT and Character Skills Snapshot to provide admission teams with a holistic view of your child’s intellectual abilities and special qualities. Register for BOTH assessments together and SAVE!