Q: How is the SSAT scored?
A: Students receive section scores, total scores, and percentile rankings. The sectional/total score ranges are as follows: Elementary (300-600 per section/900-1800 total); Middle (440-710/1320-2130); and Upper (500-800/1500-2400).
Q: How many different versions of the SSAT are there at each level?
A: The Elementary Level SSAT has separate tests for 3rd and 4th graders. At the Middle and Upper Levels, all grades take the same exam.
Q: What is considered a high SSAT score?
A: The median total score for the Upper Level SSAT has been reported at approximately 1980 (out of 2400). A score of 2100 is in the top quartile of all test-takers, while scores of 2180 and 2240 are in the top 10% and top 5%, respectively.
Q: What Upper Level SSAT score will I need for private school acceptance?
A: This is not an easy question to answer, but according to some informed sources, the average private school student scored in the 60th percentile (about 2030) or above, and the best private schools prefer SSAT scores in the 80th percentile (2120) or higher.
Q: What's the difference between a standard test and a flex test?
A: The primary difference is when you take the exam. To take a standard test means that you sit for the exam on one of the eight regularly scheduled dates throughout the year. A flex test is any other SSAT administration.
Q: Is there any difference in the registration procedure for standard and flex testing?
A: For the most part, no. Registration for both types is completed via the student's online SSAT account. Flex testing, however, requires the student to first find a flex date, and he or she may then have to input additional information while signing up.
Q: What types of flex testing are available?
A: Flex testing is either open or closed. Open flex dates are available to the general public, while closed dates are reserved for students at a specific school. Open flex dates may be searched on the SSAT website, and students may also directly contact approved consultants to request a flex date.
Q: What documents will I need to bring in order to be admitted to the test center?
A: In most cases, just your admission ticket, which is printed out at registration. The only exceptions are for test administrations that are considered "high-security" (China, Hong Kong, Korea, and Vietnam). At these locations, students will also need identification.
Q: Will I need to bring anything else to the test center?
A: Yes, you will need at least three sharpened no. 2 pencils with erasers.
Q: Is the SSAT available online or electronically?
A: No, at present the SSAT is exclusively a paper-and-pencil test.
Q: What forms of payment will be accepted for SSAT registration and other fees?
A: Major credit card only (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), in U.S. currency.
Q: Can I take the SSAT outside of North America?
A: Absolutely. There are SSAT test centers in dozens of countries around the world.
Q: What is the procedure for disabled students requesting accommodations?
A: There is a PDF available on the SSAT website that will walk you through the procedure, which begins by indicating the need for accommodations on your SSAT account.