The SSAT is a norm referenced test, which means that a student’s SSAT scores are compared to a hypothetical average student from a norm group. The SSAT norm group consists of all first-time test takers over the past three years in the U.S. and Canada. 

This group is highly competitive; a student’s results are compared only with other students of the same grade and gender who are applying to some of the most selective independent schools in the country.

If you cannot pay the full amount of the test fee due to economic hardship, you may be eligible to receive a fee waiver. Simply request a fee waiver from the admission office at a school to which you are applying and follow the directions on ssat.org when you register for the test. A fee waiver applies to the test fee only — it does not cover late fees or service fees. A fee waiver can be used for any digital or paper-based SSAT.

If you are currently enrolled at a school that is a member of The Enrollment Management Association and are working with the school's placement director, or if you are using an educational consultant to help you manage your admission process, you may permit them to manage your student registration account. Follow the directions in the tutorial below to include your advisor during the registration process.