The Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT) Elementary Level is a standardized assessment designed for students currently in grades 3 and 4 who are applying for admission into grades 4 and 5 at independent or private schools. The exam evaluates foundational skills in mathematics, reading, and verbal reasoning, providing schools with a measure of a student's academic abilities.
The SSAT Elementary Level is administered as a paper-based test and consists of the following sections:
The total testing time is approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes, including breaks. The breakdown of each section is as follows:
Section | Number of Questions | Time Allotted |
---|---|---|
Quantitative | 30 | 30 minutes |
Verbal | 30 | 20 minutes |
Break | — | 15 minutes |
Reading | 28 | 30 minutes |
Writing Sample | 1 | 15 minutes |
Quantitative Section: This section includes questions on number sense, properties and operations, basic algebra, geometry, measurement, and probability. Calculators are not permitted.
Verbal Section: Comprises 30 questions divided equally between synonyms and analogies, testing vocabulary strength and the ability to relate ideas.
Reading Section: Contains seven short passages, each followed by four multiple-choice questions, assessing the ability to locate information and comprehend both literal and inferential meanings.
Writing Sample: Students are presented with a picture prompt and asked to write a story about it. While this section is not scored, it is sent to admission officers for evaluation.
The SSAT Elementary Level employs a straightforward scoring system:
There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so students are encouraged to attempt all questions.
The scaled scores for each section range from 300 to 600, leading to a total score range of 900 to 1800. Additionally, a percentile rank is provided, comparing the student's performance to that of peers in the same grade.
The SSAT Elementary Level is offered on designated standard test dates throughout the academic year. To find a test date and register, visit the official SSAT Registration Page.
In addition to standard test dates, a Flex Test option is available, allowing students to take the SSAT on a non-standard date. However, the Flex Test can only be taken once per testing year (August 1 – July 31).
Effective preparation is key to success on the SSAT Elementary Level. Here are some strategies to help your child prepare:
For additional study resources and practice questions, explore our SSAT Elementary Level question bank.
Achieving a high score on the SSAT Elementary Level exam requires effective preparation and familiarity with the exam format. Start practicing today with our comprehensive SSAT Elementary Level question bank.
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