What Is the SSAT?

The Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT) is a standardized exam used by over 900 private and independent schools to evaluate students applying for grades 3 through 11. The SSAT helps admissions teams assess a student’s readiness for a rigorous academic environment by measuring key skills in math, reading, and verbal reasoning.

The test is offered in three levels—Elementary (for grades 3–4), Middle (for grades 5–7), and Upper (for grades 8–11)—and is administered in both paper and digital formats. Each version includes sections on quantitative reasoning, reading comprehension, verbal reasoning, and a writing sample.

Why the SSAT Matters

The SSAT plays a critical role in private school admissions, providing schools with a consistent, objective benchmark to compare applicants from diverse academic backgrounds. A strong SSAT score can significantly strengthen a student’s application and improve their chances of gaining admission to top-choice schools.

How Van Wilson Tutoring Helps

At Van Wilson Tutoring, we specialize in personalized SSAT prep designed to help students stand out. Our comprehensive approach includes:

  • Targeted lessons in math, verbal reasoning, and reading comprehension

  • Strategy-focused sessions to master analogies, synonyms, and time management

  • Essay coaching to improve structure, clarity, and expression

  • Full-length practice tests to simulate the real exam experience

We’ve helped countless students boost their confidence, improve their scores, and earn admission to their top-choice schools.

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