<p>So I have a couple of questions about the Prep School Admissions process. I'm a child of immigrants so they aren't too familiar with the process. I was in prep for prep for a while and then we moved out of the city so I really can't remember whatever happened with that. Basically, I'm trying to figure out this whole process for my parents so that my little brothers can have this opportunity (I'm already in college).</p>
<ul>
<li>What are the best SSAT prep books?</li>
<li>How early should they start preparing?</li>
<li>Can anyone give me their experiences with ABC?</li>
<li>How tough is this process?</li>
</ul>
<p>I like Kaplan personally. The one from SSAT themselves is also decent. The tips in all the books are pretty good, but I found that taking practice tests was the most helpful.</p>
<p>It’s good to start preparing the summer before applying. I guess it wouldn’t hurt to start looking at schools or getting ready before that. I had never heard of prep school until a few months before my eighth grade year; people start much later even.</p>
<p>ABC?</p>
<p>It’s tough, for sure, but it’s worth it. There’s a lot of essays to write, interview to go to, recommendations to get. Even after all that, nobody is a sure bet for being accepted. The amount of effort you put into your application doesn’t necessarily correlate with your chances of getting accepted. A lot of it’s hard work and good stats, but some of it’s just luck.</p>
<p>My son just got the book from SSAT and took some practice tests. He had done well on the SAT (CTY Talent Search) the previous spring, so didn’t need much prep.</p>
<p>If your brother is applying in the fall, take a practice test or two this summer to see what areas of strength/weakness are and where to focus work. If it is another year (or longer) he can stretch out the time. Our school recommended taking the SSAT in October or November of 8th grade when applying for 9th, so there was time to retake it if scores weren’t what you wanted. Some people will say wait until later depending on math class.</p>
<p>It is not an easy process. There is lots of paperwork that needs to stay organized. Each school has slightly different paperwork - even those that take a common application. If he works with ABC I think they help guide you through the process, but they choose the schools. Your parents will have to write something for each school. It is shorter than the applicants piece, but took us time. Your brother will have to write short answer and essay questions for each school, and get 2-3 teachers, plus sometimes an outside (coach, instructor, etc). to write letters of recommendation. </p>
<p>And there is a parent-only part of the interview process too. When you visit each school the child goes in to talk to the admission officer (AO) first, then the parents go without the child. It is really good if you can visit the schools in person. If not, you can do Skype or alumni nterviews for many schools.</p>
<p>Many schools have you visit/interview first, then finish the application. Though this too varies, and less with the day schools we visited than boarding.</p>
<p>There are many schools out there - some accept many kids who apply, some accept 10-20% of applicants. Some have more financial aid available if that is an issue for your family. Presumably your parents have dealt with that (or not) for you with your college.</p>
<p>There is a lot you and your brother can start to do online with researching schools, and contacting ABC.</p>