SSAT test prep

Traps to Look Out For on the Synonym Section of the ISEE/SSAT Tests

The synonym section of the ISEE/SSAT tests 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…

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The 2019-2020 SSAT Test Dates Have Been Released

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…

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Mastering Vocabulary on the ISEE/SSAT Tests

The key to performing well on the verbal sections of the ISEE and SSAT tests 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. …

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How to Study Vocabulary Most Effectively for the ISEE and SSAT Tests

In order to perform well on the ISEE and SSAT tests, learning to study vocabulary is crucial. The Verbal section of each test 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 or the synonyms and sentence completions portions of…

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The One-Two Pass: General SSAT Test Taking Strategy

In the Synonym, Analogy, and Math sections of the SSAT, it is important for you to become comfortable with the one-two pass strategy.  In the first pass, you should only attempt problems that you feel you have a good chance of being able to answer correctly. In the second pass, you should attempt the remaining problems. By using the one-two pass strategy, you won’t get caught up on a difficult problem halfway through and run…

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Do You Know How to Interpret Your Child’s ISEE/SSAT Scores?

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…

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Do You Know the Differences Between the ISEE and SSAT Tests?

Wondering what the differences are between the ISEE and SSAT tests?  First of all, below are the levels of the test that your child would be taking:  SSAT: Elementary Level SSAT, Students currently in grades 3-4 ​Middle Level SSAT, Students currently in grades 5-7 Upper Level SSAT, Students currently in grades 8-11 ISEE: Primary Level ISEE, Students currently in grades 2-3 Note: The Primary Level ISEE contains only Reading & Math sections Lower Level ISEE,…

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Is Your Child Taking the ISEE/SSAT Test?

Is your child taking the ISEE/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…

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Does Your Child Get SSAT Accommodations? What You Need to Know

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…

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How to Apply for Private School After Traditional Deadlines

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…

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