Application to prep schools involves preparing for standardized tests like the SSAT, TOEFL and Duolingo. It also requires a strong interview, touring campuses, writing application essays, and navigating the maze of registration portals. We facilitate the application process for families through tutoring, consulting, and posting helpful articles.
Disclaimer: I have supported students through the admissions process since 2015, and the views below are based on that experience. I am not an official admissions officer. The Short Answer For test-optional schools, something is generally expected, but it doesn’t have to the SSAT. In addition to the SSAT, admissions officers will consider your grades, […]
The SSAT — The Prep School Entrance Exam The SSAT is an admissions test for high school and middle school students. Prep schools use the SSAT as part of their admissions process. Students who take the SSAT can be any grade from grades 3 to 11, as long as they are applying to a high school or middle […]
Hi! I realize that signing up for the SSAT can be logistically confusing. A lot of optional payments are pre-selected for you, so it’s important to be aware of what you’re accepting, and actively uncheck what you don’t want to pay for. This guide will take you through every step of the process. If you’d […]
Application portals like Gateway to Prep School and the SAO usually require students to submit a graded essay. The portals do not give students much guidance on what type of essay to submit. Here are some guidelines to follow. This advice is not official — it is based off the limited instructions from the SAO, […]
If you are out of time or cannot re-take the SSAT, here are some ways to boost your SSAT score without retesting: Ultimately, the most straightforward way to improve your SSAT is to practice consistently or get tutored. There are also other meaningful ways to improve your application outside of the SSAT below. If you […]
The SSAT improves your application. If you choose to not submit your scores, you are putting yourself at a disadvantage compared to students who did. To combat this, applicants who are missing the SSAT should find other ways to make their application stand out. This can be particularly challenging for athletes whose application profiles lack […]
Here is a list of what to bring to in person tests, and online tests taking at home. This list is for people who are not approved for special accommodations. If you feel like you need access to some of the prohibited items due to a disability, I would encourage you to apply for accommodations. […]
No, a week is generally not enough time to prepare. However, it is enough time to make improvements towards your score. Each school has different expectations and minimum requirements for the SSAT. When schools look at your SSAT scores, they are not looking at how many points you got right, but rather, how well you […]