SSAT Scoring Guide 2024
How exactly is the SSAT scored? Find out in this SSAT Scoring Guide!
SSAT Scoring System Foundation
Here are the basics of how the Upper and Middle SSAT tests are scored.
When taking the test, students can answer questions either correctly, incorrectly, or not answer them at all. Students earn one point for each correct answer, earn 0 points for an omitted answer, and are deducted ÂĽ point for each incorrect answer (something that distinguishes the SSAT from the ISEE).
The total number of points earned by each student is called the raw score. This raw score is then converted to a scaled score ranging from 500-800 for the Upper Level test and 440-710 on the Middle Level. The scaled score is then converted to a percentile score, ranging from 1-99, which shows how you scored compared to other students who also took the test.
Students receive a scaled score and percentile score for each of the 3 test sections (Verbal, Quantitative, and Reading). They also receive a composite scaled score, out of 2400, which combines the scaled scores from the 3 sections, and a composite percentile score, which compares their overall test performance to all other students who took the SSAT.
SSAT Scoring by Section
SSAT Verbal Score
There are 60 questions on the SSAT Verbal section. Students received a scaled score for this section ranging from 500-800 for the Upper Level test and 440-710 on the Middle Level. Students also receive a percentile score (1-99) for this section.
SSAT Quantitative Score
There are two Quantitative sections, each of which has 25 questions. Students received a scaled score for both sections combined, ranging from 500-800 for the Upper Level test and 440-710 on the Middle Level. Students also receive a percentile score (1-99) for this section.
SSAT Reading Score
There are 40 questions on the SSAT Reading section. Students received a scaled score for this section ranging from 500-800 for the Upper Level test and 440-710 on the Middle Level. Students also receive a percentile score (1-99) for this section.
SSAT Essay Score
The SSAT Essay section is unscored. Instead, a copy of the essay is sent to each school a student submits their scores to. It is then independently assessed by the admissions committees as a writing sample.
SSAT Experimental Score
The Experimental section of the SSAT is unscored. It is the last section of the test and has 16 questions.
How to Read SSAT Score Reports
Upper Level SSAT Score Report
Take a look at this sample Upper Level SSAT score report provided by the official SSAT website.
At the top, you’ll see both the composite scaled score and the composite percentile score. Below you’ll see three columns with scores for each of the three sections. This includes the percentile, scaled score, and a breakdown of the question answered correctly, incorrectly, or omitted. This part is also divided by question type, so students can get a better sense of the sort of question they are getting wrong.
Middle Level SSAT Score Report
The SSAT also provides a sample Middle Level SSAT score report.
At the top, you’ll see both the composite scaled score and the composite percentile score. Below you’ll see three columns with scores for each of the three sections. This includes the percentile, scaled score, and a breakdown of the question answered correctly, incorrectly, or omitted. This part is also divided by question type, so students can get a better sense of the sort of question they are getting wrong.
SSAT Score Percentile Conversion
It is not possible to calculate your own percentile score when taking practice tests, becasue the percentile score compares you to all other students who took the same exam. Only the official SSAT has this data.
However, you can calculate your own raw score. To find your raw score for a section, count 1 point for each correct answer and deduct 1/4 point for each incorrect answer. Don't add or subtract anything for omittted questions. The total number will be your raw score. When practicing, aim to get as high a raw score as possible, as this will increase your chances of being in a higher percentile group.
What is a good SSAT score?
A “good” SSAT score depends on the individual admissions requirements of the schools you are applying to. When it comes to independent school admissions, the SSAT score is just one component of the package. Schools also pay attention to grades/transcripts, admissions essays, teacher recommendation letters, and several other factors. To know what a good SSAT score is for you, reach out to the individual admissions offices and ask what scores they tend to look for from the students they accept.
What is an average SSAT score?
An average SSAT score will put students in the 50th percentile. If you score above the 50th percentile, then your score is above average. If below, then your score is below average.
If you need help reaching your target SSAT score, IVY has your back! Our team of expert SSAT tutors can help you create a personalized study plan, transmit the best test-taking strategies, and ensure that you are confident and prepared for test day.
