Private School Admissions

SSAT® Test Prep

Help your student earn a spot at the independent school of their choice — expert SSAT and ISEE prep with full-time tutors, personalized 1-on-1, in person or online.

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Purposeful Prep for Independent School Admissions

The SSAT and ISEE are a major part of private school applications. We help students show their best on test day with focused, personalized preparation.

Our prep goes beyond drilling practice questions. Full-time Foley Prep tutors strengthen the exact skills these exams measure — math reasoning, vocabulary and analogies, reading comprehension, and the writing sample — while diagnosing each student's weak areas.

Every plan reflects a student's grade level, target schools, and timeline. Whether your child is preparing for the Elementary, Middle, or Upper Level exam, we build a schedule that fits their pace and admissions deadlines.

Why families choose Foley for SSAT/ISEE
  • Diagnostic review with specific action steps
  • Plans matched to the Elementary, Middle, or Upper Level
  • In-person at 7 NJ centers or fully online
  • One-on-one attention every session

What Every SSAT Package Includes

Focused, expert-led prep tailored to your student's exam level and target schools.

Personalized Instruction

Tutors adjust pacing and focus to the level — Elementary, Middle, or Upper — your student is preparing to take.

Structured Practice

Weekly assignments use SSAT and ISEE-style questions to reinforce vocabulary, math reasoning, and reading skills.

Writing Sample Coaching

We help students plan and write the unscored essay that admissions offices read alongside their scores.

Test-Day Readiness

Students learn timing checkpoints, multiple-choice strategies, and ways to manage stress on exam day.

How SSAT Prep Works

1
Diagnostic & Planning

We review prior scores or run a timed baseline, set goals, and map a session schedule around the family's test date.

2
Lessons & Homework

Regular sessions target weak areas across math, verbal, and reading, with practice sets to reinforce each lesson.

3
Mock Exams & Review

Timed practice tests build stamina and pacing; tutors review results and fine-tune strategy before exam day.

What's on the SSAT

The Secondary School Admission Test is offered at Elementary, Middle, and Upper Levels and measures four core areas. We also prepare students for the ISEE when their schools require it.

Quantitative (Math)

Two scored math sections covering arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation through grade-level problem solving.

Verbal

Synonyms and analogies that test vocabulary and the ability to reason about word relationships.

Reading Comprehension

Passages followed by questions on main idea, detail, inference, tone, and vocabulary in context.

Writing Sample

An unscored essay that is sent to the schools a student applies to, giving admissions a sample of their writing.

Also preparing for the ISEE?

Many independent schools accept the Independent School Entrance Examination (ISEE) in place of the SSAT. It covers Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Mathematics Achievement, and an essay forwarded to admissions. Our tutors prepare students for whichever exam their target schools require. For official test dates and formats, visit the official SSAT website or the official ISEE website.

SSAT & ISEE Packages

Flexible session packages for every level and schedule. All tutoring is 529 plan eligible.

Common Questions About SSAT Prep

What is on the SSAT?
The SSAT measures four areas: Quantitative (math reasoning, two scored sections), Verbal (synonyms and analogies), Reading Comprehension, and an unscored Writing Sample that is shared with the schools a student applies to. It is offered at Elementary, Middle, and Upper Levels.
What's the difference between the SSAT and the ISEE?
Both are admissions tests used by independent and private schools and cover similar skills — verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, reading comprehension, and writing — but they use different question styles and scoring. Our tutors prepare students for whichever exam their target schools require. Ask us which test fits your child's schools.
Which SSAT level should my student take?
The SSAT is offered at three levels based on the grade a student is currently in: Elementary Level (grades 3-4), Middle Level (grades 5-7), and Upper Level (grades 8-11). Our tutors tailor every plan to the correct level and the expectations of your target schools.
What do SSAT tutoring sessions look like?
Every student works 1-on-1 with a dedicated tutor, so each session targets their specific weak areas and moves at the right pace. Sessions are available in person at our 7 New Jersey locations or fully online — reach out to get started.
When should my student start SSAT prep?
We recommend starting two to three months before the test date so there is time to build vocabulary, strengthen math reasoning, and complete timed practice. Families applying to competitive schools often begin earlier to allow for a retake if needed.
Is SSAT tutoring eligible for 529 education savings plans?
Yes! All Foley Prep services, including SSAT and ISEE tutoring, are 529 plan eligible. We provide detailed receipts for easy reimbursement. Learn more on our 529 Plan page.