How Long Is the SSAT Exam? Complete Timing Breakdown by Section (2025 Update)

Sapneil Parikh
11 minutes ago
2 min read

SSAT Exam Duration at a Glance

The SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test) is a standardized entrance exam for students applying to private middle and high schools. It’s offered at three levels: Elementary, Middle, and Upper, with test lengths varying by level.

The Upper and Middle Level SSAT lasts approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes, including breaks. The Elementary Level SSAT takes about 2 hours and 5 minutes.

SSAT Exam Timing by Section

Upper & Middle Level SSAT Timing (Grades 5–11)

Section	Time (minutes)	Number of Questions
Writing Sample (unscored)	25	1 prompt
Break	5	—
Quantitative 1 (Math)	30	25
Reading Comprehension	40	40
Break	10	—
Verbal Section	30	60
Quantitative 2 (Math)	30	25
Experimental (unscored)	15	Varies
Total Test Time	3 hours, 5 min	—

Elementary Level SSAT Timing (Grades 3–4)

Section	Time (minutes)	Number of Questions
Writing Sample (unscored)	15	1 prompt
Quantitative (Math)	30	30
Break	15	—
Reading	30	28
Verbal	20	30
Experimental (unscored)	15	Varies
Total Test Time	2 hours, 5 min	—

Important SSAT Timing Notes

The Writing Sample and Experimental Sections are not scored, but are still required.
No calculator is allowed for any math section.
Two short breaks are provided for restroom and water.
Administered in paper or computer format, depending on test type (Prometric, Flex, At-Home).
Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow for check-in.

Optimize Your SSAT Test Prep Strategy

Understanding the length and pacing of each section helps test-takers manage time wisely. Practicing full-length timed SSAT practice tests improves endurance and confidence—especially for the longer Upper Level SSAT.

Also, prep for high-score performance with: