About the SSAT
Everything you need to know about the Secondary School Admission Test - from test structure to scoring and preparation strategies.
What is the SSAT?
The Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT) is a standardized test used by independent schools worldwide to assess students' academic abilities and readiness for rigorous academic programs.
Verbal Section
Tests vocabulary, verbal reasoning, and reading comprehension skills through synonyms, analogies, and reading passages.
Quantitative Section
Evaluates mathematical reasoning and problem-solving abilities covering algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
Reading Section
Assesses reading comprehension through various passages including fiction, poetry, and non-fiction texts.
Key Features
SSAT Test Structure
The SSAT consists of multiple sections designed to assess your academic readiness for independent school education. Here's what to expect on test day.
Writing Sample
25 minutesCreative or argumentative essay (not scored, sent to schools)
Quantitative (Math) 1
30 minutesMultiple choice math problems covering arithmetic, algebra, and geometry
Reading Comprehension
40 minutesReading passages with multiple choice questions testing comprehension
Verbal
30 minutesSynonyms and analogies testing vocabulary and reasoning skills
Quantitative (Math) 2
30 minutesAdditional math section with similar content to Math 1
Experimental Section
15 minutesUnscored section used for test development (not counted in final score)
Elementary Level
Grades 3-4Middle Level
Grades 5-7Upper Level
Grades 8-11Practice Test
Free SampleImportant Test Day Information
Timing Details
- • Sections are timed individually
- • No extra time between sections
- • Two scheduled breaks during the test
- • Arrive 30 minutes before test time
What to Bring
- • Valid photo ID
- • #2 pencils (no mechanical pencils)
- • Eraser
- • Admission ticket (if applicable)
SSAT Testing Options
The SSAT testing options vary depending on the student's grade and location. Selecting the right test type for your child often comes down to comfort level and convenience.
Paper SSAT
- Available in the United States, Canada, and many international locations
- Middle and Upper students can take up to 6 Standard tests and 1 Flex test
- Elementary students can take up to 3 tests including 2 Standards and 1 Flex
SSAT at Home
- Available in the United States (including U.S. territories) and Canada only
- Proctored computer‑based testing at home
- Students can take 1 SSAT at Home per testing year
- Middle and Upper Level only
Prometric Test Center
- Available in the United States, Canada, and many international locations
- Proctored computer‑based testing at a test center
- Students can take 2 Prometric tests per testing year
- Middle & Upper Level only
Please note: SSAT test availability is based upon the student's physical location on test day, not their current location or home address. The testing year runs from August 1 through July 31. Contact info@ssat.org if you have questions.
SSAT Scoring System
Learn More About SSAT ScoringSSAT Test Dates & Registration Deadlines
Plan ahead with our comprehensive SSAT testing schedule. Each test type has different registration requirements and deadlines to ensure you secure your preferred date.
Paper SSAT
October 14, 2024
Standard TestNovember 9, 2024
Standard TestDecember 14, 2024
Standard TestJanuary 11, 2025
Standard TestFebruary 8, 2025
Standard TestMarch 8, 2025
Standard TestApril 12, 2025
Standard TestMay 10, 2025
Standard TestJune 14, 2025
Standard TestSSAT at Home
Available daily
US and Canada only
Prometric Test Center
Available daily
Subject to center availability
Visit ssat.org for the most current dates and registration information
Regular Registration
Register by the regular deadline to avoid additional fees. Recommended for best test center selection.
- • Standard registration fee applies
- • Best seat availability
- • Full refund if cancelled early
Late Registration
Available for Paper SSAT with $35 additional fee. Limited seat availability.
- • $35 late registration fee
- • Subject to seat availability
- • Limited test center options
Digital Options
SSAT at Home and Prometric offer flexible scheduling with advance registration.
- • 72-hour advance booking (At Home)
- • Daily availability
- • Middle & Upper Level only
Important Registration Information
Paper SSAT Limits:
- • Middle/Upper: Up to 6 Standard + 1 Flex per year
- • Elementary: Up to 2 Standard + 1 Flex per year
- • Testing year: August 1 - July 31
Digital Test Limits:
- • SSAT at Home: 1 test per testing year
- • Prometric: 2 tests per testing year
- • Cannot combine with Paper SSAT limits
After late registration deadline: Contact SSAT directly for emergency registration options (additional fees may apply).