SSAT Update

This year, students will have three options to take the SSAT:

• Paper-based Flex Test with Educational Consultants
• Computer-based SSAT at home (available every Saturday and the first Sunday of each month)
• Computer-based test at Prometric Test Center (closest to Eagle Eye: 8120 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda and 1629 K Street, NW Washington)  

Students can take a Flex test ONCE per year, the SSAT at home five times per year and students can test at Prometric two times per year. 

Garrett recommends that students take the paper-based Flex Test with an Educational Consultant if it is within their budget. 

Information about testing at home from the SSAT:
Before choosing the SSAT at Home, it is important to ensure your student is comfortable taking a computer-based assessment. For many students, taking a computer-based assessment will be easier and more convenient, but be sure to understand the following.

Can your student type?
When taking the SSAT at Home, students will need to type their writing sample. They can use scrap paper to outline; however, they must type their short essay on a keyboard.

Is your student comfortable using both a computer and scrap paper?
Your student will need to navigate the simple test interface on the screen, use a paper and pencil on their desk for outlining or figuring, and select answers on the computer.  

Does your student have a religious objection to the check-in photo?
During check-in, students will be required to take a selfie. Do you or your student have a religious objection to having a photo taken? Please contact ta@ssat.org for complete information.

Does your student have an appropriate environment, equipment, and internet access?
The SSAT at Home requires reliable internet access and a PC or Mac. Students cannot use Chromebooks, phones or tablets.

Click here to learn more about the SSAT at Home.

**Students taking the SSAT at Home are NOT required to test in their homes. Students are permitted to test at any location that satisfies the requirements below. Students CAN test at the Eagle Eye office. Locations such as a school, library resource room, or other location could all be acceptable. **

Computer

• Must be a laptop or desktop computer. Tablets, cell phones, and other devices are not permitted. Windows or Mac computers are both acceptable. Chromebooks are not compatible at this time.
• Must have a monitor or screen with a minimum resolution of 1366 x 768.
• Must have an internal or external webcam. The camera must be able to be moved to show the proctor your testing environment. (If your webcam is a part of a laptop, you’ll be asked to move your laptop to show parts of the room.)
• Must complete the required system check on the same computer and in the same environment where you plan to take the test.  Must have a speaker to hear the proctor. 
• Headphones or AirPods are not allowed.
• Must have a microphone to speak to the proctor. Microphones that are part of a headset are not allowed.
• Must only have one monitor connected. Any second monitor will need to be disconnected prior to testing. Some antivirus software can cause performance issues

Internet

• Must have a reliable, consistent internet connection. Our partner PSI does not require very fast internet speeds, but in general your internet should be at least fast enough to search the web or stream music.
• Must complete the required system check on the same computer and in the same environment where you plan to take the test. 
• You may not use a VPN during testing.
• Some corporate, business, or school networks may have settings that prevent testing.

Room/Environment

• You must use a room where you can be alone during testing. A parent/guardian is allowed to assist during the initial connection, room scan, and explanation of testing rules. Once these steps have been completed, the parent/guardian must exit the room as testing begins but needs to remain in an adjoining room.
• Your computer mouse and keyboard must be on a table or desk.
• Your work surface and area surrounding your desk must be free of all items not approved for use during testing.
• You must be seated in a regular chair. You may not use a couch, bed, or be seated on the floor.
• Food and snacks are not allowed during testing, except during scheduled breaks.
• Your room may not have any posters or items visible that may benefit the test taker.
• Your room must be free from music, talking, or other noises.
• Students may NOT take the SSAT at Home outside their country of residence.
• It is highly recommended that the secure browser be downloaded, installed, and the system check be run prior to the day of testing, especially if testing at an alternate location. You will be prompted to install the secure browser after completing the system check. This will help discover any problems related to hardware or internet access that may prevent testing.