SSAT Exam

SSAT
(SECONDARY SCHOOL ADMISSION TEST)

Plan SSAT preparation around school requirements and the student's current grade.

Courses > Academic Support

SSAT preparation should connect section demands with the student's current reasoning and reading profile.

Confirm the accepted test and appropriate level first, then identify priorities for reading, verbal and quantitative work.

The SSAT can form part of an independent school application. With HND Academics, consider the test alongside the school list and the student's preparation needs.

  • Elementary Level: For students currently in grades 3 and 4, applying for admission to grades 4 or 5.
  • Middle Level: For students currently in grades 5, 6, or 7, applying for admission to grades 6-8.
  • Upper Level: For students currently in grades 8, 9, 10, or 11, applying for lise (high school) entry.

Track documents and deadlines as well as test results. Schools do not all apply the same assessment criteria.

The following skill areas can help organize preparation for Middle and Upper Level tests.

Quantitative Reasoning

Two separate 30-minute math sections (25 questions each) covering arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and analytical problem-solving. No calculators are permitted.

Reading Comprehension

A 40-minute section featuring 40 questions based on diverse passages, including historical documents, literature, and analytical essays.

Verbal Section

A fast-paced 30-minute module with 30 synonyms and 30 analogies, measuring complex vocabulary and logical relationships.

Writing Sample (Non-Scored)

Middle and Upper Level students have 25 minutes for an unscored writing sample, choosing one of the supplied prompts. Practice can focus on selecting an idea and developing it clearly.

Unlike ISEE, the SSAT features a penalty system for incorrect answers in Middle and Upper levels, necessitating a calculated test-taking strategy.

Penalty Logic

  • Middle & Upper Level: +1 for correct, -1/4 for incorrect, and 0 for omitted questions.
  • Elementary Level: No penalty for incorrect answers.

Preparation Priorities with HND

Review reading passages, word relationships and mathematical solutions separately. Use those observations to adjust the plan. A percentile does not determine admission on its own; consult each school's criteria.