SSAT or ISEE? Which admission test to take for a U.S. boarding school
What the tests are
Both tests are used by independent schools, including many boarding schools, to compare applicants. The SSAT is run by The Enrollment Management Association, now part of E3n, and the ISEE by E3n. Most schools accept one or the other, but check, because a few ask for a specific test.
Levels
- SSAT: Elementary (students now in grades 3 and 4), Middle (grades 5 to 7) and Upper (grades 8 to 11). The level follows the grade the student is in now.
- ISEE: Primary (applying to grades 2 to 4), Lower (5 and 6), Middle (7 and 8) and Upper (9 to 12). The level follows the grade the student is applying to.
Where and how you can take them
- SSAT: paper tests on set Saturdays, at Prometric test centers (Middle and Upper, on most days), or at home. Prometric is available almost everywhere, but not in China, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Korea, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam, where students take the paper test. SSAT at Home is only for students who are physically in the United States or Canada.
- ISEE: at a school, or at home or a Prometric center. Outside the United States, students in grades 5 to 12 can test online at Prometric centers, and a parent or guardian must stay at the center. The only international ISEE office listed is in Korea.
How often you can test
SSAT students at the Middle or Upper level can take up to six Standard tests and one Flex test per testing year. The ISEE allows one test per season, and its three seasons are fall (August to November), winter (December to March) and spring and summer (April to July).
Fees (as of October 2026)
- SSAT, Middle or Upper: $177 for the paper Standard test in the United States or Canada, $250 at Prometric and $263 at home. Outside the United States and Canada, $339. Late and rush registration cost extra.
- ISEE, grades 5 to 12: $170 at a school, $250 at home with E3n proctoring or at Prometric.
Prices change, so confirm them on the registration page before you pay.
How to choose
- Make your list of schools and note which test each accepts. See boarding schools by region and grades.
- If every school accepts both, choose the one that is easier to take where you live, since some formats are not available in every country.
- Book early and work back from your application deadlines. See the application timeline.
- If the student needs extra time or other accommodations, ask the test organization early. The SSAT asks you to request accommodated testing at least 14 days before the test.
Our test calendar lists official dates and links. Read where our information comes from, and always confirm with the school and the test organization.
Questions
Do I have to take both the SSAT and the ISEE?
No. Many schools accept either one, so take the test that every school on your list accepts. A few schools prefer one or want their own test, so confirm with each admission office.
How many times can I take the test?
The SSAT testing year runs from August 1 to July 31, and Middle and Upper level students can take up to six Standard tests and one Flex test in a year. The ISEE allows one test per testing season. Always check the current rules.
Does a good score guarantee admission?
No. The score is one part of the application, along with grades, recommendations, an interview and the school's own needs. No test, agent or school service can guarantee admission.
Related documents
Sources
- About the SSAT — levels, formats and fees — E3n (The Enrollment Management Association)
- About the ISEE — levels and testing seasons — E3n
General information as of Oct 12, 2026, not legal, immigration or admissions advice. Each school, the U.S. Department of State and SEVP decide; check the school's own pages and official sources before you act.
