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What Is a Good Score on the SSAT or ISEE? Private School Admissions Benchmark Guide


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What Counts as a Good SSAT or ISEE Score?

When applying to competitive private or independent schools, a "good score" on the SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test) or ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) depends on:

  • The selectivity of the school

  • The applicant’s grade level

  • The strength of the overall application

While there’s no official “passing score”, most top-tier schools look for students scoring in the 75th–90th percentile or above.


SSAT Scoring Overview

Level

Grades

Score Range

Percentile Benchmarks

Elementary

3–4

900–1800 (combined)

Top schools: 85–90%+

Middle Level

5–7

1320–2130 (total)

Competitive: 75–90%+

Upper Level

8–11

1500–2400 (total)

Elite: 85–95%+

  • The percentile shows how a student compares to others of the same grade and gender.

  • The scaled score is based on correct answers, adjusted for test difficulty.

  • SSAT penalizes for guessing: ¼ point deducted for wrong answers.


ISEE Scoring Overview

Section

Score Range

Percentile Benchmarks

Each Section (4 total)

760–940 (scaled)

Top schools: 85–95%+

Percentile Rank

1–99 percentile

Above 75% = competitive

Stanine Score

1 (lowest) – 9 (highest)

7–9 = Strong to Excellent

  • The stanine is the most common benchmark used by admissions teams:

    • 7 = Above Average

    • 8 = Excellent

    • 9 = Outstanding

  • Unlike the SSAT, the ISEE does not penalize for wrong answers.


What Do Top Private Schools Consider a Good Score?

While every school is different, many of the most competitive prep and boarding schools (like Exeter, Andover, and Harvard-Westlake) look for:

  • SSAT scores in the 85–95th percentile

  • ISEE stanines of 7, 8, or 9

But remember: these tests are just one part of a holistic review that includes:

  • Transcripts and GPA

  • Teacher recommendations

  • Essays and student statements

  • Interviews and extracurriculars

  • Character assessments (like the Snapshot)


Tips to Maximize Your Score

  • Take full-length practice tests to build endurance

  • Focus on vocabulary, math strategies, and time management

  • If applicable, retake the SSAT (up to 8 times/year) or the ISEE (once per season)

Choose the test that best fits your strengths and target schools



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