The SSAT at Home: What to Expect
Since the 2020-21 admissions season, the Middle and Upper Level SSAT have been offered remotely, with an at-home testing option available for students in the U.S. and Canada. The SSAT at Home provides a safe, convenient, and flexible way to take this important admissions test—offered on select Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays throughout the testing season.
Students may take the SSAT at Home up to three times per testing year, in addition to up to eight paper-based administrations (six standard dates and two flex dates). The content and format are exactly the same as the traditional SSAT—the only difference is that the at-home version is administered digitally on a computer.
Here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth test day experience:
What to Expect Before Test Day
Technical Requirements:
To take the SSAT at Home, you’ll need:
- A desktop or laptop computer (with a webcam, microphone, and speaker)
- A stable internet connection
*Important Note:
- Chromebooks, tablets, smartphones, and headphones are not permitted.
- Be sure to complete the required system check on the exact device and in the same location where you’ll take the test.
Need Equipment?
The Enrollment Management Association (EMA) offers free testing kits,laptops and mobile hotspots,to students who need them, regardless of whether they have a fee waiver. Request a kit before scheduling your SSAT at Home date.
Testing Environment:
You’ll need a private, quiet space with:
- A desk or table
- A chair (no couches, beds, or floors)
You are allowed to test from any quiet, secure location—not just your home—as long as your system check is completed in that same space.
What to Expect On Test Day
Log in and launch the SSAT up to 30 minutes before your scheduled start time to complete security steps, including a room scan with your webcam.
Room Setup & Supervision:
- A parent or guardian may assist during setup and initial instructions, but they must leave once the test begins.
- A live proctor will monitor your session and is available via chat for technical support (but not for test content questions).
Test Navigation:
- You can skip and return to questions within each section.
- Answered questions will appear in blue, so you can easily track progress.
- If you finish a section early, you can review it before moving on—but once you continue, you cannot go back.
Breaks:
There are two scheduled 10-minute breaks:
- After the Writing Sample
- After the Reading Comprehension section
Click “Request Break” to take them.
What to Expect After Test Day
Scores:
Your SSAT scores will be available within four business days of taking the test. Locate your scores in your SSAT portal at ssat.org. If you select schools to receive your scores, they’ll get your report within three business days after score release.
Get Ready with Official SSAT Practice
Prepare with confidence using tools from Test Innovators, the SSAT’s official test prep partner. Create a personalized practice plan and take timed, digital practice tests to simulate the real thing. Start your SSAT prep today!
Originally published on September 28, 2020. Updated on May 14, 2025.
