There are three levels to the test: the Elementary Level (EL), for students in grades 3 and 4 who are applying to grades 4 and 5; the Middle Level (ML), for students in grades 5–7 applying for grades 6–8; and the Upper Level (UL), designed for students in grades 8–11 who are applying for grades 9–12 (or PG (Post-Graduate year before college)). 

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The SSAT consists of a brief unscored writing sample and multiple choice sections that include quantitative (mathematics), reading comprehension, and verbal questions and an experimental section at the end which is unscored. The test, written in English, is administered around the world at hundreds of test centres, many of which are independent schools. Students may take the exam on any or all of the eight Standard test dates; the SSAT "Flex" test, given on a flexible date by approved schools and consultants, can be taken only once per testing year (August 1 – July 31).

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Length

2 hours and 5 minutes (EL)

3 hours and 10 minutes (ML & UL)

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Sections

Quantitative 

Reading Comprehension

Verbal Reasoning

Writing Sample

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Highest Score Attainable

1800 (EL)​

2130 (ML)

2400 (UL)