How to Register for the SSAT: 5 Simple Steps

The SSAT can be an important test for students hoping to attend a private school, but how do you register for it? In this guide, we walk you step-by-step through the SSAT registration process and include screenshots from the SSAT website to makes things as simple as possible.

At the end of the guide, we also include a chart with upcoming SSAT registration dates so you know exactly when you need to register for each exam date to avoid late fees.

What to Know About the SSAT Before Registering

If you’re planning on applying to a private school, you’ll likely need to take the SSAT and submit your scores as part of your application.

There are three levels of the SSAT depending on the grade you’re in. (Students take the test based on their current grade, not the grade they’ll be entering next year, so make sure you register for the correct test.)

• Elementary for students in grades 3 and 4
• Middle for students in grades 5 through 7
• Upper for students in grades 8 through 11

For more information on the SSAT, including an in-depth look at what topics it tests, check out our guide to the SSAT.

The SSAT sign up process is pretty simple, but before you start, you should gather all the information and materials you’ll need for registration. This will make the registration process much easier and faster to complete.

Here’s what you need for SSAT Registration:

• Your address and contact info
• The names of up to three schools where you’d like the results to be sent (you can also add these schools after the exam)
• A credit card for payment

5 Steps to Register for the SSAT

Follow these five steps to register for the SSAT and get your choice of exam date and location.

#1: Create an Account

Before you can begin the registration process, you’ll need to visit the SSAT website and create an account. You’ll create both an account for the student taking the SSAT and a parent/guardian account so you can manage the student account.

To create the accounts, you’ll need to enter some basic information such as your address and contact info and your child’s age and grade.

Each student who’ll be taking the SSAT needs their own account, so if you have several children who’ll be taking the test, you’ll need to create separate accounts for each of them. You’ll only need one parent account.

#2:  Begin the Registration Process

After you’ve created your account, click “Manage My SSAT” then “Register for SSAT.” You’ll see a page (below) outlining the steps you’ll need to take for SSAT test registration.

#3: Choose a Test Location and Date

After selecting whether the student needs additional accommodations or a Sunday exam due to religious reasons, you’ll select the grade of the student taking the exam. You’ll then see a page with the location and dates of upcoming SSAT exams, with the closest test center at the top of the list. Select the test that works best for you.

#4: Add Score Recipients (Optional)

You’ll next have the option of choosing the school(s) you want the SSAT scores to be sent to. You can send SSAT scores to up to three schools for no additional charge.

If you’re not sure yet where you’d like the SSAT scores to be sent, you can also complete this step anytime before or after the exam date. SSAT score reports are sent about two weeks after the test date.

#5: Select Add-Ons and Complete Payment

The next step is choosing if you want to purchase any additional add-ons such as rush reporting or practice materials. The final step of SSAT test registration is payment. You’ll need a credit card to pay for the SSAT test fee (plus fees for any add-ons you chose). Below is a chart showing SSAT fees. Domestic tests refer to those administered in the US, Canada, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, Saipan, or the US Virgin Islands. International exams are those administered in any countries other than those just listed. All fees are in USD.

After you’ve paid, you’ll receive a confirmation email, and the SSAT registration process is complete!

SSAT Test Dates and Registration Deadlines

Below is a chart of recent and upcoming SSAT registration dates and deadlines. You should register for the SSAT at least three weeks before the exam date to avoid late fees.

It’s possible to register for the SSAT up to three days before the exam, but you’ll end up paying $45 to $85 in late fees, depending on how late you register for the test.

If your student needs additional testing accommodations or needs to take the SSAT on a Sunday due to religious reasons, you’ll need to apply for testing accommodations. You’ll need to apply for testing accommodations at least four weeks before the desired test date and have any requested materials submitted at least two weeks before the test date.

Summary: SSAT Registration

The SSAT is an exam many students hoping to attend private schools take. There are versions of the SSAT available for elementary, middle, and high school students. SSAT test registration is a pretty simple process, but knowing what to expect ahead of time will make it easier and faster to complete.

There are five main steps to SSAT registration:

• #1: Create an account
• #2: Begin the registration process
• #3: Choose a test location and date
• #4: Add score recipients
• #5: Choose add-ons and pay

There are several SSAT registration dates throughout the year, and you should aim to register for the SSAT at least three weeks before the test date to avoid late fees. However, if you’re willing to pay late fees, you can register up to three days before the exam.

What's Next?

Want help with your SSAT prep? Check out our SSAT study tips and complete collection of SSAT practice tests.

Vocab is an important part of the SSAT, but it can be hard to find high-quality practice materials. Our guide to SSAT vocabulary has done the hard work for you and compiled every top SSAT vocab resource in one place.

Want to learn more about what's covered on the elementary, middle, and upper-level tests? Then be sure to read our complete guide to the SSAT.