SSAT Test Day: Do You Know What to Expect?

SSAT Test Day Checklist: 

1. Print your student’s admission ticket. Log in and click “print ticket” if you didn’t print it during registration. Get step-by-step instructions. Approved for testing accommodations? Be sure to bring the second page titled “Testing Accommodations Approval.”

2. Know what to bring. Make sure your student has the following items:
Admission Ticket
#2 Pencils (no mechanical pencils)
Snack or Drink
TIP: Bring snacks and drinks in a clear zip-top bag with your student’s name on it.

3. Know what is restricted. Many everyday items are restricted and are best left at home. Know that if restricted items are brought, they must be placed in the restricted items area upon entering the test room when instructed. Review the list of restricted items below and understand the SSAT cell phone policy. The following items are restricted: all electronics, including calculators, cell phones, fitness tracker wristbands, media players, all watches (clocks will be visible in testing rooms and proctors will provide timing cues). Personal items like backpacks, bags, large jewelry, purses, clothing, coats, hats, and other items like books, erasers, mechanical pencils, notes or paper, pens, and rulers are also not allowed. 

SSAT Test Day Cell Phone Policy
CELL PHONES ARE RESTRICTED ITEMS. We strongly discourage students from bringing a cell phone to the test center. However, we understand that bringing a cell phone may be necessary for security or transportation reasons. IF STUDENTS BRING A CELL PHONE, THEY MUST STRICTLY ABIDE BY ALL CELL PHONE RULES:
1. Ensure the phone is off.
2. Place the phone in the restricted items area when prompted.
3. Do NOT attempt to access or use it at any time, including during breaks.
4. Possessing a restricted item during testing will result in your student being excused from testing, the test being cancelled without refund, and may limit the opportunity to retest.

4. Know where to go. The address for you test center is listed at the top of your admission ticket. Check the “Special Instructions” section on your admission ticket for any notes about arriving, parking, or public transportation.

5. Allow enough time. Testing begins promptly. Students will NOT be admitted after testing begins. It’s best to arrive at least 30-45 minutes prior to the start of testing. Testing normally begins at 9 a.m.. Check the “Special Instructions” section on your admission ticket for any special start times.

6. Know what to expect. Ensure you and your student review what to expect on the SSAT test day. This will decrease stress and help you both get ready.

7. Check for closures and cancellations. Check your email and the SSAT news page for information about cancellations before you leave. Rest assured that if there is a cancellation, we will work to set up a rescheduled test (normally one week later) and either allow you to test at that time, transfer free of charge to any other test date/location within the current testing season, or receive a refund. 

For more information, visit the official SSAT website by clicking here.

Allison Green
Boston Tutoring Services