The key to mastering the reading sections of the SSAT tests is two-fold: reading the passage effectively, and answering the questions efficiently. The reading section of the SSAT tests is designed to assess how well you are able to grasp the main idea and tone of a passage. The most important thing to remember is that you are not expected to retain details as you read. This is different from how you probably read other…
The key to structuring your standard essay for the SSAT is to ensure you have the proper format. Here’s the general format for a successful standard essay: Introduction Sentence 1: Thesis/Answering the question Sentence 2: Introduce your first supporting paragraph (what you’re going to say in the second paragraph) Sentence 3: Introduce your second supporting paragraph (what you’re going to say in the third paragraph) Sentence 4: Sum up your ideas and transition into the next…
The 2019-2020 SSAT test dates have been released. Your child can take the middle and upper level SSAT test up to 8 times, or the elementary level twice. It’s important to review the test dates below and make sure you register your child in time. Standard Test Date Regular Registration Starts Aug 1, 2019 & Ends: Last Day for Registration (Without Testing Accommodations) Sat, Oct 19, 2019 September 28, 2019 Wednesday, October 16, 2019 Sat, Nov…
The synonym section of the SSAT is very challenging due to the difficult vocabulary, as well as the traps that the test-makers include to confuse you. The first trap to look out for is the Secondary Part of Speech Trap. Sometimes the word has a secondary meaning when it is used in a different part of speech. For example, words can be both a noun and a verb, and have different meanings depending on their part…
The key to performing well on the verbal section of the SSAT is mastering vocabulary. One of the main ways to understand how words are built is to study prefixes and roots. It is important to be able to break words that you do not recognize into pieces and decipher the meanings, because it’s better to be able to understand how words are made up than to just memorize them by rote. For example, the…
In order to perform well on the SSAT, learning to study vocabulary is crucial. The Verbal section challenges the vocabulary skills of even the strongest students. It can be difficult to study vocabulary with your busy schedule, but without making it a priority, you will not be able to perform well on the synonyms and analogies portions of the SSAT exam. What is most important to remember about studying vocabulary is that you will never…
Private schools use the test scores for about ⅓ of their admission decision. They typically consider grades, scores, and extracurriculars/recommendations all equally. Remind your child that this test is not the end of the world, and will not be the only indicator of their ability to get into a good school. A perfect score is not necessary, and schools are looking for well-rounded students, so the test is just one part of the application. Private…
Is your child taking the SSAT? It’s important for you and your child to understand that the test is far more challenging than the typical tests they have taken in school. The test is taken by the best and brightest students applying for competitive schools, so the pool of students taking the test is already very high-achieving. The makers of the test have developed the content to be challenging enough that most students will not…
Will your child need special accommodations to take the SSAT test? The exam proctors will make every effort to arrange special administrations for students who are unable to take the SSAT under standard conditions because of a documented learning difference or a physical challenge. Read on for instructions on eligibility and how to apply for accommodations. As far as eligibility, any student with an identified disabling condition or impairment which substantially limits their ability to…
If your child was waitlisted, the SSAT has an Open Seat Listing Feature. Read more on how to apply for private school after traditional deadlines below: “Whether you didn’t receive an offer of admission from your top choice school, didn’t get the financial aid package you needed, or are coming to the process after the admission season, there are many reasons why you may still be seeking the perfect independent school fit for you. There…
