Being accepted into a private school is an intensive process. If your dream is for your child to attend private school, making your dream a reality will take preparation and focus. The private school exam is one of the many hurdles your child must successfully overcome in order to receive admission.
The two most common tests are the SSAT, or High School Admission Test, and the ISEE, the Independent School Entrance Exam. These tests typically offer multiple test dates throughout the year, with many students choosing to take the tests in the late fall.
Both tests consist of multiple-choice sections that cover your child’s verbal, reading, and math skills. In addition, there is also an essay requirement, which is passed on to schools for direct review. Preparing for these exams is essential.
While it’s true that these tests don’t cover specific knowledge, but instead engage your child’s skills and skill sets, there are still ways to practice and prepare. Private schools are notoriously competitive and will use any tool at their disposal to weed out what they see as weaker students. One of its main criteria is students’ test scores. You want your son to perform above average on the test so that he has a greater advantage compared to his peers.
Start by having your child review the practice questions in each section. Both the SSAT and the ISEE offer practice questions online. The next step is to have your child take the practice test within the time constraints. This will give them essential practice in answering the questions and writing the essay in a timed environment.
The best way for your child to be successful on the test is to provide extra practice and resources that are tailored to test specifications. Chances are your child will have some weak areas on the practice test. These are the areas to focus on for further study. Instead of hiring an expensive private tutor, you can find any reasonable interactive solution that will help boost your child’s score.