Hey guys! Sorry for the previous threads which have been closed by the moderator 
I’ve recently taken a practice test of the SSAT in my tuition class, and my overall percentile was 51%, which I know is a very bad score if I want to get in some better boarding schools. However, my tutorial class seems to provide rigorous prep and some students who have joined the tutorial class have risen their scores from 60% to 97%!
Note that I am a grade 7 student and I have about half a year to prep for the test (I am now currently revising and doing exercises that my tutorial class gave me every day for about 1 hour).
What were you guys’ practice test percentiles and final SSAT percentiles? Was it hard to improve your scores? How much time did you prep for the test?
Thanks guys i appreciate your replies
Like many people before me have said, it’s not all about the test scores. There are various other factors that count towards the admissions process. However, I can see trying to improve that number…as I was just fretting over test scores a mere 4 months ago. :))
I was in a different situation as you, as I received in the high 80s on practice tests (I received a 90 on the real test). But what I can tell you is that the practice tests are usually quite significantly more challenging than the real deal.
I’d suggest putting the top SSAT word list (found in a google search) in quizlet or vocabulary.com, and that does a great deal for verbal-- although it does the surpass the skills of an avid reader. When I did test prep, I also used the Princeton Review book and went over multiple passages and problems. Just familiarize yourself with the whole situation, and focus in on the areas that you need a bit more work in.
Good luck, and try not to worry too much! I do know that some of my friends had 50s on practice tests, and with some practice and study got in the 70s and even the 80s.
I always scored in low 90% on the practice tests and got high 90% on the real one, but I think part of it was that I was able to really focus and take it seriously when the real time came around. I spent about two hours a week practicing for roughy 4-3 months. For me, the sections that I needed to focus on were verbal and math. I did a lot of math prep, and studied vocab when I had a quick couple of minutes between classes, etc.
DD scored better on practice tests compared to the real test. She took the test twice - scored 87%on V first test yen it want down on second test! Not sure what happened as her first practice test was 85% months earlier. She found the online practice tests from SSAT to be realistic-- the book was easier in her opinion. The vocabulary appears to be more challenging online. Also, I think she may rush online compared to studying out of the book. Tricky analogies online, according to DD. Good luck .
Definetly invest in the SSAT website’s test/book. For me, it was very similar to the actual exam. I have also tried tutoring, but for the most part, they are more challenging than the actual exam. This is because they want to make you believe that you are horrible so you keep spending the money on tutoring. This may not be the case for all tutoring program. Overall, just stick to the SSAT book from their website that you can buy, and use their online quizzes. Also, go on Quizlet for SSAT roots and words. By doing those two, and having your 8th grade teacher polish your math skills, you are set. For reading, there is not much you can improve. Good luck
Here’s the only good thing that came out of it this year (besides connecting with you awesome folks on CC ):
DD’s test prep for the SSAT really helped her prepare for the ACT she took for Duke TIP. She scored > top level & got invited to the state recognition ceremony. She actually scored in a higher % on the ACT than the SSAT 
I didn’t get the best score on the SSAT this year, but here’s what I’ve learned…
For verbal, I used apps like Vocabulary Builder by Magoosh and a website called Vocabulary.com, also Quizlet is great too. And although I don’t see many people approving this website/mentioning it, I found 99percentileprep a cool website to visit if you’re struggling. I was disappointed that I found the website so late. ( http://www.99percentileprep.com/ssat.html )
For math, I think reviewing fundamentals is crucial. Also do practice problems, get stuck, ask for help, learn the concept, and then do even more practice problems on that specific concept to get it stuck in your head. Challenge yourself with harder versions of the problems/ harder math.
For reading, which I struggle with to this day, try challenging yourself while reading a book. Maybe check out a difficult read and take sections of it and pretend you’re taking the actual test. Practice strategies. Ask yourself questions. Do reading SSAT quizzes on the official website/other websites. And then also read for pleasure!
Never take your abilities on the SSAT for granted. Exercise everything. Even time-management, which is crucial during the test.
I’m happy you’re starting early! Keep up your studying routine if you can!!
And then attitude!! Attitude is very important in test taking. Remember to stay relaxed. Tell yourself: “I will finish this test.” Not “I’m gonna fail,” or “I’m gonna do great.” You will finish this test.
Don’t freak out if you don’t know anything!! Don’t freak out when you first get the test! Bring some mints and water and relax. Skip questions you don’t know and come back to them later. Remember your time-managing tactics.
I wish you good luck and success in your future!
Thanks! You seem like a nice person
Hi,
Always remember to maintain a clear head. Since I’m not really familiar with standardized tests, I didn’t do much to prepare. I signed up early for the October test so I had more breathing time for essays. Just remember: the admission officers don’t judge you based solely on your tests. I just kept telling myself throughout the test and ended up getting perfect scores in math and vocab, and a little bit less in reading. Don’t let the stress get to you; for me, I perform better when I view a test more as an assignment.