Private schools require the SSAT, so if your child is not applying to a private/independent school, then no. If your child is applying to a private/independent school, KEEP READING.

What is the SSAT? 

The SSAT is a standardized test used by private/independent schools to evaluate the readiness of their applicant pool. Officially named the Secondary School Achievement Test, the SSAT is given several times in the fall and spring and the scores will help determine if the student is a good academic fit for the institution. 

There are 3 levels of the SSAT: 

1. Elementary level for primary students
2. Middle and Upper level for students who want to enter middle or high school

The SSAT requires that students compose a piece of writing, complete math problems, read passages and answer questions, find synonyms and complete analogies in a timed environment which assess whether or not student will be able to handle the rigours of the private school. While the SSAT is given to all students who apply to private school, nationally there are not that many students who take the SSAT. Therefore, the pool of applicants who take the SSAT are serious about gaining acceptance and will typically have prepared for the exam which means that the competition is strong.

What’s the optimal score? 

Even though SSAT scores do not solely determine admission, a higher score helps admissions counsellors determine if the student will be successful or if they will struggle academically. 

While SSAT scores range from 1-99, a competitive score is lower than you would think. The fact that a student takes the SSAT and scores better than half 55% makes you competitive. Yep…55% is competitive. There is no perfect score of 100%. Students whose scores range from 85%-99% are exceptional and can help students gain entry. However, be aware that test scores are only part of the application package; so whether or not you score high or low on the scale will force a favourable admissions decision. 

How does my student prepare for the SSAT? 

During the year, students should build strong math skills in their everyday classes. The lower school test takers should have a firm grasp of math vocabulary, times tables, divisibility rules, positive and negative numbers, word problems, ratios, percents, decimals and fractions. The upper level test takers should have all of the above as well as clear understanding of basic geometry and equations.

Don’t panic. The test makers and graders are aware that the youngest students may not have had instruction of all these skills and the scores are adjusted for age and grade range. 

With all that in mind, preparation begins in the classroom. Extra preparation is needed to understand how to approach the test’s stringent time requirements. Test prep programs and books are great for helping students understand how to approach the sections for the greatest success. Without understanding how the test works, basic classroom knowledge is often not enough. Here is a great source for SSAT prep called Beat the Test and it is available each July.

The Princeton Review book is a solid resource to begin your prep.

Click here to purchase book.

How does my student register for the SSAT? 

To apply for the SSAT, create an account www.ssat.org. There are a few questions that you will need to answer. Applying takes about 30 mins.

You will choose a testing date and a testing site. 

If your student has accommodations as in a 504 Plan or for visual or hearing impairments, then the SSAT can accommodated your needs.

You will be asked to pay the fee or enter the fee waiver number. If you need a fee waiver, ask your counsellor or advisor for a waiver.

Should I use an advisor for the SSAT? 

You don’t have to use an advisor. But, if you are using an advisor, obtain their advisor number so that the scores are accessible to them via the SSAT website. When your advisor can see the scores, they can help guide you on the next steps.

How do I obtain the SSAT scores? 

Scores will be available to parents on the website. If you need help interpreting the scores, ask the advisor you are working with, or use the resources on the SSAT website. The scores will help you understand your child’s weaknesses so that the prep program you choose will be most helpful. 

This is a score report from the Upper Level test. 

For more SSAT information, or to register, click here.