Thoughts from Jacquie & Verona…
There’s no denying it, the independent and boarding school admissions process can be overwhelming: the to-do list looks endless, the multitude of components can be bewildering, and the number of hoops to jump through feels convoluted. But it’s important to point out that there’s intentionality behind every step along the way: each school is simply doing its due diligence to determine if your child will be successful in their community.
So, if a school search is on your horizon, we’ve compiled a series of mini-blogs over the coming weeks. Each article will focus on a key element of the process and is intended to give you an overview of what’s involved and help you manage your time more effectively. For additional pointers, you can also read our previous blog, Starting an independent school search? Use the four Rs ...
For the first installment in our mini-series, we invited Business Development Director at Summit Educational Group, Whitney Longworth, to help answer the perennial question that parents frequently ask us, “Which is better for my child: ISSE or SSAT? “ Here’s what Whitney had to say …
This Week’s Lowdown: ISEE vs. SSAT - Five Key Differences
While many independent schools specify which test they prefer in the admission process, you may be in a situation where you have the choice of taking the Secondary School Admission Test or the Independent School Entrance Exam. Here are some key differences to help you decide between the two tests:
1. Vocabulary
Both tests have sections devoted to vocabulary through identifying synonyms. A key difference is that the other half of the verbal section on the SSAT is devoted to analogies, whereas the ISEE has sentence completions. If your student struggles with vocabulary, they might find that the sentence completions section on the ISEE is less challenging because of the additional context within the sentences.
2. Essay
Each test has a timed writing sample component. The SSAT provides students with a choice between two prompts and is the first section on the test. The ISEE only provides a single prompt and is the final section of the test. If your student struggles with writing, it may be worth considering the SSAT since they will be able to complete that section first, instead of having to wait until after they have completed the rest of the test on the ISEE.
3. Math
Both tests have similar math concepts, but the Upper Level ISEE includes more advanced concepts, including trigonometry. The ISEE also has a Quantitative Reasoning section that can be more challenging for some students.
4. Guessing Penalty
The SSAT has a guessing penalty; if you answer a question incorrectly, you lose a ¼ point. Students need to practice and strategize whether or not they should guess on a question or leave it blank. The ISEE does not have a guessing penalty; you simply receive points for correct answers.
5. Opportunities to Test
Students are allowed to take an ISEE test once during a testing window. The windows are August – November, December – March, and April – July. Students can take the SSAT on monthly standard test dates, as well as through flex tests and computer-based. If you are working with a tight timeline, the SSAT may be more convenient as your student will have more opportunities to test.
Still unsure about which test might be the right choice for your student? You can have them take a practice test of each and compare their results and experiences.
A final word from KQ …
When it comes to deciding how best to navigate a school search with your child, don’t forget that KQ is here to help you devise a personalized admissions plan that includes building the school list, essay support, preparing for interviews, and ultimately determining the best fit for your child. We’re always just a phone call or email away.
We can’t wait to hear from you!
’ISEE vs. SSAT - Five Key Differences’ Written by Whitney Longworth | Director of Business Development | Summit Educational Group
Whitney graduated cum laude from Connecticut College where she was a selected scholar for the Holleran Center for Community Action and Public Policy. She started as a test prep tutor with Summit Education Group before joining the team full-time. She enjoys collaborating with school and independent counselor partners in her role at Summit. Whitney is a frequent expert panelist and guest speaker at industry conferences.