Step 08
Testing Strategy
A thoughtful SSAT test prep strategy begins with deciding whether the SSAT or ISEE better reflects your strengths. Compare each test’s format, scoring, math and verbal emphasis, guessing rules, and available dates before committing. Because private school admissions testing policies vary, confirm every school’s current requirements. A practice test can help you judge whether submitting a score will strengthen your overall application.
Which one?
The two main testing options are the SSAT and the ISEE; others exist as well. Here are some differences:
The SSAT
- The SSAT's format is not like others. Actually, it was the old SAT back in the day! But don't let that steer you away.
- It consists of a writing sample, two quantitative (math) sections, a verbal (English) section, a reading (reading comprehension) section, and an experimental (mixed) section (not graded).
Length
The writing sample is 35 minutes, one quantitative is 30 minutes, the verbal is 30 minutes, the reading is 40 minutes, and the experimental is 15 minutes.
The ISEE, differences
- English: the ISEE uses sentence completions, the SSAT uses analogies.
- Math: math emphasis (ISEE is heavier on math).
- Scoring: ISEE has stanines (a rating 1-9), SSAT uses percentiles.
- Test frequency: SSAT offers more dates. The ISEE also costs more.
- General differences: the SSAT penalizes wrong answers, while the ISEE does not, making guessing strategy different for each.
Final Verdict
Choose based on your strengths and school requirements, as most schools accept either. More on the SSAT later.
Is it for me?
- Decide if taking these tests will help or hurt your application; don't make quick assumptions either.
- If you have other strong points, that's totally fine.
Is it required?
- This question depends on the school. Some schools have changed their policy from required to optional. Some changed it back!
- If you are choosing not to, I highly recommend getting a third teacher recommendation or submitting a graded writing piece to strengthen your application.