A Parent’s Guide to Atlanta Private School Admissions & Testing
With all of the requirements for admissions for private schools, choosing the right entrance exam can feel overwhelming for families in the Atlanta area. Often, families are left with the question of choosing the right test, usually between the Secondary School Admissions Test (SSAT) and the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE). While both measure verbal, math, and reading skills, schools often have a preference for one over the other.
SSAT vs. ISEE: Key Differences
If you have the choice in tests, there are some key differences in how they evaluate a student’s readiness in their structure and scoring.
| Feature | SSAT | ISEE |
| Levels Offered | Elementary, Middle, Upper | Lower, Middle, Upper |
| Sections | Quantitative (Math), Reading, Verbal, Writing Sample, Experimental | Verbal, Quantitative, Reading, Math Achievement, Essay |
| Scoring | 1320–2130 (Middle/Upper); penalty for wrong answers | 760–940 per section; no penalty for wrong answers |
| Guessing Strategy | Wrong answers lose points | No penalty, guess freely |
| Frequency | Can be taken up to 8 times per year | Can be taken up to 3 times per year (one per season) |
| Testing Style | More emphasis on analogies & vocabulary | More emphasis on math & reading comprehension |
| Acceptance | Preferred by most Atlanta-area schools | Accepted by some (e.g., Lovett, Walker, Whitefield) |
Below, we have compiled a chart of major Atlanta-area schools and their testing requirements (for current dates feel free to reach out to us!). You’ll notice that most schools require or strongly prefer the SSAT.
Atlanta Private Schools Preference
| School | Test Preference | Deadline |
| Marist School | SSAT (required) | October – January |
| Wesleyan School | SSAT (required) | January – February |
| Westminster School | SSAT (required) | January – February |
| Greater Atlanta Christian | SSAT, SAT, Mock SAT, PSAT | October – April |
| Paideia School | SSAT and ISEE not required | |
| Galloway School | SSAT (required) | January – February |
| Heritage Prep | SSAT (required) | |
| Holy Innocents’ Epsocipal | SSAT (required) | January – February |
| Blessed Trinity | SSAT (9th grade – required) PSAT (10+) | |
| Mount Pisgah School | MAP testing (1-10)PSAT, SAT, ACT (11-12) | |
| Saint Francis | Placement Testing at School | |
| St. Pius X | SSAT (required) | October – January |
| Lovett School | SSAT or ISEE (required) | |
| Walker School | SSAT or previous school standardized testing (required) | January – February |
| Whitefield Academy | SSAT or alternative with permission (required) | End of February |
| Woodward Academy | Testing (optional) | |
| Atlanta International School | TOEFL (optional) | |
| Pace Academy | SSAT (required) | January – February |
Note: These schools are members of the Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools. If you’re applying elsewhere, we can help you find their specific requirements. If there is no deadline, most schools imply the last test date is by the end of January.
What the SSAT Process Looks Like
For most families, the SSAT will be the primary admissions test. The following steps outline the best way to prepare for the test.
- Registration: Register for the SSAT test date online here. Test dates usually begin late October and go through February. Most schools typically accept tests for admission until the late January/early February test date. You can finde more information about upcoming registration deadlines, fee increases, and accommodated testing dates through the link above.
In addition to these standard dates, some schools have flex testing, which means they host the SSAT on their own campus. Check here for the list of both standard and flex test sites in the Atlanta area for middle- and upper-level testing.
- Applying for Accommodations (if needed): The SSAT offers accommodations and you can apply directly after registering for the test. The accommodations process requires an upload of documentation from either the family or the current school. Follow the link to a step-by-step guide for more information about how to apply for accommodations here.
- Test Day: Students sit for the test, which is 2 hours and 5 minutes with standard time.
- Scoring: Scores are sent directly to schools. Parents also receive a detailed report breaking down strengths and areas for improvement.
The SSAT: What It Measures and Who It Fits
The Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT) is the most widely accepted exam among Atlanta’s independent schools. It is designed to measure how well a student thinks, rather than how much they know. The SSAT rewards logical reasoning, verbal agility, and the ability to recognize patterns—all skills correlated with long-term academic success in challenging college-prep environments.
SSAT Levels and Structure
| Level | Grades Tested | Duration | Sections |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary | 3–4 | ~2 hours | Quantitative, Verbal, Reading, Writing |
| Middle | 5–7 | ~3 hours | Quantitative (2), Verbal, Reading, Writing Sample |
| Upper | 8–11 | ~3 hours | Quantitative (2), Verbal, Reading, Writing Sample |
Sample SSAT Questions
Middle Level – Verbal Section Example
Choose the pair of words that best expresses a relationship similar to the original pair:
Honest : Deceitful
A) Tall : Short
B) Clear : Transparent
C) Polite : Courteous
D) Brave : Fearless
Answer: A (opposites relationship)
Upper Level – Quantitative Section Example
If 2x + 3 = 11, what is the value of x?
A) 3
B) 4
C) 5
D) 6
Answer: B (4)
The Philosophy Behind the SSAT
The SSAT emphasizes analytical reasoning, vocabulary depth, and inference – skills that predict success in rigorous academic settings. Unlike classroom tests, it doesn’t just check whether a student has memorized content; it measures how efficiently they can apply logic and reasoning to unfamiliar material.
Who Is a Good Candidate for the SSAT?
- Students who excel in language and reasoning, or who enjoy wordplay, analogies, and pattern recognition.
- Learners who thrive under time pressure and can make educated guesses (despite the small penalty for incorrect answers).
- Students applying to highly selective Atlanta schools such as Westminster, Pace, Marist, or Lovett, where the SSAT is required or preferred.
At Dogwood, we train students to think like test-makers, not just test-takers. By simulating real test environments and explaining how each question type works, our students build speed, confidence, and accuracy.
The ISEE: What It Measures and Who It Fits
The Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) serves as an alternative to the SSAT and is accepted by a smaller group of Atlanta schools, such as Lovett and Walker. It was created by the Educational Records Bureau (ERB) and focuses more on academic achievement and consistency than abstract reasoning.
ISEE Levels and Structure
| Level | Grades Tested | Duration | Sections |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower | 2–4 | ~2.5 hours | Verbal, Quantitative, Reading, Math Achievement, Essay |
| Middle | 5–7 | ~3 hours | Verbal, Quantitative, Reading, Math Achievement, Essay |
| Upper | 8–11 | ~3 hours | Verbal, Quantitative, Reading, Math Achievement, Essay |
Sample ISEE Questions
Middle Level – Reading Comprehension Example
After reading a short passage about ecosystems:
The author most likely wrote this passage to:
A) Persuade readers to protect endangered species
B) Explain how ecosystems depend on balance
C) Describe the rainforest’s weather patterns
D) Argue against pollution laws
Answer: B
Upper Level – Quantitative Example
What is the perimeter of a square with an area of 81?
A) 9
B) 18
C) 27
D) 36
Answer: C (each side is 9, perimeter = 4×9 = 36 → correction: answer D)
The Philosophy Behind the ISEE
The ISEE is designed to assess school-based knowledge and academic maturity. It places slightly more emphasis on mathematics, computation, and reading comprehension, rewarding careful test-takers who can manage detail-oriented questions. There is no penalty for guessing, encouraging students to attempt every question.
Who Is a Good Candidate for the ISEE?
- Students who are methodical, thorough, and academically consistent.
- Learners who prefer structured questions and do well in classroom test settings.
- Students applying to schools that emphasize academic achievement rather than abstract reasoning, such as Walker or Whitefield.
At Dogwood Tutoring, we help ISEE students build test stamina and comprehension skills while reinforcing classroom fundamentals. Tutors emphasize step-by-step problem-solving and reading accuracy, ensuring students are comfortable with both format and pacing.
How Dogwood Tutoring Can Help
Preparing for private school admissions can feel like a full-time job – between understanding deadlines, choosing the right test, and ensuring your child performs their best. At Dogwood Tutoring & Test Prep, we simplify that process for families in the Atlanta area through a structured, supportive, and individualized approach.
Our Approach to SSAT and ISEE Prep
We believe that every student can improve with the right structure, feedback, and encouragement. Our philosophy centers on building confidence through mastery, not memorization. Our tutors use a combination of mock testing, data-driven feedback, and personalized instruction to help students not only learn the material but also feel calm and capable on test day.
Here’s how we guide families through every step of the process:
- Mock SSAT and ISEE Testing (Free of Charge)
Students can take a full-length, proctored practice test at our Sandy Springs learning center, complete with testing accommodations if applicable. This gives families a true picture of their child’s current performance level in a realistic testing environment. - Comprehensive Score Reports
Each mock test is followed by a detailed, parent-friendly report showing strengths, weaknesses, and next-step recommendations. You’ll see how your student performs in each test section and where the greatest gains can be made. - Personalized Tutoring Plans
Based on the score report, our tutors build a plan targeting weak areas, often combining concept review, test-taking strategy, and time-management training. - Expert Tutors Who Understand the Admissions Landscape
Our tutors not only know the SSAT and ISEE inside and out but also understand the admissions preferences of Atlanta’s top independent schools, from Westminster to Lovett. This local expertise helps families focus efforts where they matter most.
Ongoing Support and Progress Tracking
We stay with families through the entire admissions cycle, offering re-testing guidance, session feedback, and stress-management strategies. You’ll always know how your child is progressing and when they’re truly test-ready.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the SSAT and ISEE depends on your child’s learning style, strengths, and the admissions preferences of their target schools. The good news is that with structured preparation and expert guidance, your child can thrive on either test.
At Dogwood Tutoring & Test Prep, our goal is to help families approach private school admissions with confidence and clarity. From test selection to mock testing and ongoing tutoring, we partner with you every step of the way.
Additional Resources
Here are some additional resources if you still have questions about choosing the right test and navigating the tests.
https://blog.prepscholar.com/isee-vs-ssat#google_vignette
https://www.ivywise.com/blog/isee-vs-ssat
https://www.thethinkacademy.com/blog/isee-vs-ssat-complete-guide-for-private-school-admissions
https://markseducation.com/ssat-vs-isee-which-test-is-best-for-your-child