Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT) Prep

SSAT Scoring Breakdown for Parents:

The SSAT scoring system might seem complex at first glance, but here's a breakdown to help you understand your child's results:

Scoring Method

• Each question (except for the writing sample) is awarded 1 point for a correct answer.
• Incorrect answers in the Middle and Upper Levels receive a ¼ point deduction. (There's no penalty for wrong answers at the elementary level.)
• Omitted questions don't receive any points.

Score Reports:

Once the test is complete, you'll receive a score report with several key sections:

1. Total Score Summary:
   • This shows your child's overall scaled score (ranging from 500-800) and percentile rank (1-99).
   • The percentile indicates how your child performed compared to other test-takers in the same grade over the past three years.
   • The report also provides an average score for reference.
2. Section Scores:
   • This section breaks down the scores for Verbal, Quantitative (Math), and Reading sections.
   • Each section includes a scaled score, percentile rank, and average score.
   • You'll also see a score range that indicates the potential range your child might score on a retest within a short time frame.
   • Additionally, there's a breakdown of the number of questions answered correctly, incorrectly, and left unanswered for each section.

Interpreting the Results

• Scaled Scores: The SSAT focuses on scaled scores (500-800) for each section and the total test. This score is more reliable than raw scores (number of correct answers) because it accounts for difficulty variations across different test editions.
• Percentile Ranks: The percentile rank is particularly helpful. For example, a 75th percentile score means your child performed better than 75% of students in their grade who took the SSAT in the last three years.
• Section Scores: Analyze the section scores to identify your child's strengths and weaknesses. This can help you tailor future academic support or identify areas for improvement.
• Score Range: The score range provides an idea of how much your child's score might fluctuate on a retest.

Important Notes for Parents

• Focus on Scaled Scores: When comparing your child's performance, focus on the scaled scores and percentiles rather than raw scores.
• Holistic Review: Remember, SSAT scores are just one piece of the application puzzle. Schools consider various factors, including grades, recommendations, and extracurricular activities.
• Use Scores for Guidance: The SSAT results can be a valuable tool to identify areas where your child can improve their academic skills and test-taking strategies.

SSAT Test Administration: What to Expect on Test Day

The SSAT administration process is designed to be standardized and secure to ensure fair testing conditions for all students. Here's a breakdown for parents to help their children feel prepared:

Before Test Day

• Registration & Scheduling: You'll register your child for the SSAT online and choose a test center or opt for the SSAT at Home option if available.
• Test Admission Ticket: You'll receive a test admission ticket with details like test location, date, and reporting time.
• Familiarize Your Child: Briefly explain the test format, content areas, and approximate duration to manage expectations.
• Practice Tests: Consider using official SSAT practice tests or resources to familiarize your child with the question types and pacing.
• Prepare Necessary Items: Pack approved identification (mentioned on the admission ticket), sharpened pencils, and an eraser. (Calculators are not allowed).

On Test Day

• Arrival: Students should arrive at the designated test center well before their reporting time to avoid last-minute stress.
• Check-In: Test center staff will verify identification and collect the admission ticket.
• Test Environment: The testing area will be a quiet, well-lit room with individual desks or workstations for each student.
• Test Administration: A trained proctor will provide instructions and oversee the testing process.
• Breaks: Short breaks are usually scheduled during the test, but specific details may vary depending on the test level.
• What to Expect During the Test:
  • Students will be given a test booklet with instructions and answer sheets.
  • The proctor will read instructions aloud for each section.
  • Most sections are multiple-choice, with some requiring short answer responses (writing sample).
  • The SSAT is known for being untimed, allowing students to work at their own pace within the allocated time for each section.
• After the Test: Once all sections are complete, students will hand in their test materials and leave the testing center.

Additional Notes for Parents

• Test Center Regulations: Familiarize yourself with any specific test center regulations or prohibited items mentioned on the admission ticket.
• Test Day Accommodations: If your child has approved testing accommodations, ensure you communicate clearly with the test center staff beforehand.
• Minimize Distractions: Encourage your child to get a good night's sleep before the test and eat a healthy breakfast on test day.
• Positive Reinforcement: Reassure your child that doing their best is the most important thing.
• Meaningful Test Preparation: There's no greater feeling than going into a test knowing you've been well-prepared for it. Enlisting the help of specialized test prep services can be the edge your child needs to do well, but more importantly, they need to believe in themselves.