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frequencyonce/month from Oct – April, once in June
duration2 hours and 35 minutes (both levels)
sectionsQuantitative (2 sections), Reading Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning and an unscored essay
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What is the SSAT?
The Secondary School Admissions Test is used for admissions at private middle schools and high schools. Here's a brief overview.
What's on the SSAT and why are there different levels?
The test contains multiple choice sections in Quantitative (two sections), Verbal Reasoning, and Reading Comprehension. There is also an essay, which is not scored, but is sent to the schools to which you apply.
The Upper Level test is for applicants to 9th grade and above. The Lower Level test is for applicants to 6th, 7th and 8th grades.
The same sections appear on both levels.
When is the test given, and how do I register?
The SSAT is given once each month from October to April and again in June. To find out the specific test dates and register for the test, go to http://www.ssat.org/ssat/info/home.html.
Should I take the ISEE or SSAT?
Many schools will accept either test. Both tests cover Vocabulary, Math, and Reading Comprehension. The ISEE uses Synonyms and Sentence Completions to test vocabulary, while the SSAT uses Synonyms and Analogies. Reading passages on the ISEE tend to be longer than those on the SSAT, while the SSAT includes a broader variety of genres, including poetry. The ISEE places a heavier emphasis on mathematical reasoning than does the SSAT. If the schools to which you apply accept both tests, take the test that better suits your abilities.
How Is the SSAT Scored?
Quantitative
- 500-800 (Upper Level)
- 440-704 (Lower Level)
Reading Comprehension
- 500-800 (Upper Level)
- 440-710 (Lower Level)
Verbal Reasoning
- 500-800 (Upper Level)
- 410-710 (Lower Level)
Essay
- Not scored, but a copy is sent to the schools to which you apply
All scores are converted to a grade-appropriate percentile.