When to Start Preparing for the SSAT
When should you start preparing for the SSAT?
As a general rule, we recommend starting your SSAT prep four to six months before your test date. The more time, the better!
For example, if you plan to take the test in November, aim to complete your diagnostic practice test sometime between May and July. Starting to prepare early gives you plenty of time to:
- Learn unfamiliar content
- Master key test-taking strategies
- Get comfortable with the structure and pacing of the SSAT
- Reduce test-day anxiety
Building the confidence and skills needed to maximize your scores takes time. Data shows that long-term preparation with regular practice testing and consistent study sessions is the most effective pathway to score improvement. Want to learn more about why early prep works? Check out our guide: 3 Reasons to Start Studying Now.
How do you start preparing for the SSAT?
We recommend starting your prep process by taking a full-length SSAT practice test. This diagnostic will serve as the jumping off point for prep. You’ll receive:
- Immediate scoring insights based on your target schools
- Detailed feedback and answer explanations on every question
- Timing analysis to understand pacing
- Personalized practice suggestions so you know what to focus on in order to reach your SSAT goals
While we recommend starting four to six months before your test date, any amount of practice helps. Whether your test is in eight months or eight days, the best time to take your first full-length practice test is now.
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Originally published on June 9, 2022. Updated on June 6, 2025.
