Preparing for the ISEE and SSAT Exams
The ISEE and SSAT are two of the most popular standardized tests used for admission to independent (private) schools in the United States. Both exams assess math, verbal, and reading skills, but there are some key differences between the two. If you plan to apply to an independent school, learn about preparing for the ISEE and SSAT exams here.
ISEE
- The ISEE has four levels: Primary (grades 2-4), Lower (grades 5-6), Middle (grades 7-8), and Upper (grades 9-12).
- The ISEE has a dedicated math section.
- The ISEE does not penalize for incorrect answers.
SSAT
- The SSAT has three levels: Elementary (grades 4-6), Middle (grades 7-8), and Upper (grades 9-12).
- The SSAT does not have a dedicated math section, but does have two quantitative reasoning sections.
- The SSAT penalizes for incorrect answers, the ISEE does not.
Who might benefit from taking one over the other?
- Students who are strong in math might benefit from taking the ISEE, as it has a dedicated math section.
- Students who are concerned about the penalty for incorrect answers might benefit from taking the ISEE, as the ISEE does not penalize for incorrect answers.
- Students who are looking for a challenging test might benefit from taking the ISEE, as it is generally considered to be a more challenging test than the SSAT.
Talk to your child’s guidance counselor or a private school admissions consultant to decide which test to take. They can assess your child’s strengths and weaknesses and recommend the best test for them.
Common methods when preparing for the ISEE and SSAT exams
- Take practice tests. Practice tests will familiarize you with the format of the test, the types of questions that are asked, and the time constraints. There are many official and unofficial practice tests available online and in bookstores.
- Review your weak areas. Review the questions that you missed after you take a practice test. This will help you identify your weak areas and focus your study efforts on those areas.
- Develop good test-taking strategies. There are a number of test-taking strategies that can help you improve your score on the ISEE or SSAT. These strategies include managing your time effectively, eliminating answer choices, and reading carefully.
- Get enough sleep the night before the test. Being well-rested will help you focus and perform your best on the test.
Resources that can help you prepare for the ISEE and SSAT exams
- Official practice tests. You can find official practice tests through the Educational Records Bureau (ERB), which administers the ISEE and SSAT.
- Tutoring. Consider hiring an ISEE or SSAT tutor for personalized help and attention. A tutor can help you identify your weak areas, develop good test-taking strategies, and practice answering questions.
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Rachel is the Director of Marketing at Hodis Learning & Music. She has years of experience in marketing and public relations. Rachel is also an experienced reading, writing, English, and Spanish tutor.