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Test Preparation Services (TPS)
Information on Taking the SSAT exam in Ottawa, the registration process, fees and the path for finding a tutor or self-studying SSAT in Ottawa.
Ottawa
Ontario 
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TPS - SSAT Exam Prep in Ottawa
In Ottawa, the SSAT is administered at Ashbury College, which serves as the primary test center for the area. Currently, two private schools--Elmwood School and Académie Providence—require the SSAT for admission. Ashbury College, however, offers a choice between the SSAT and the CAT4 for students applying to its International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Many other private schools in the region provide flexibility, allowing students to take either the SSAT or an alternative entrance exam administered by the school itself.
It’s important to note that the SSAT is entirely separate from the SAT, which is used for college admissions. To take the SSAT, you must register through the official SSAT website and schedule the test at an authorized center, such as Ashbury College. When registering, you’ll need to decide whether your child will take the Elementary Level (grades 3-4), Middle Level (grades 5-7), or Upper Level (grades 8-11), depending on their current grade and the requirements of the schools they are applying to.
Before committing to the SSAT, it’s essential to understand the test’s structure, scoring, and preparation opportunities. Ottawa offers various resources for SSAT preparation, including local tutoring services, online practice tests, and study materials available through platforms like testpreview.com or ssatprep.com. Additionally, having your child take a few practice tests can help identify their strengths and weaknesses, allowing for a more targeted and effective preparation plan.
By researching the specific requirements of your target schools and utilizing available preparation resources, you can ensure your child is well-prepared to take the SSAT and achieve their best possible score.
It’s important to note that the SSAT is entirely separate from the SAT, which is used for college admissions. To take the SSAT, you must register through the official SSAT website and schedule the test at an authorized center, such as Ashbury College. When registering, you’ll need to decide whether your child will take the Elementary Level (grades 3-4), Middle Level (grades 5-7), or Upper Level (grades 8-11), depending on their current grade and the requirements of the schools they are applying to.
Before committing to the SSAT, it’s essential to understand the test’s structure, scoring, and preparation opportunities. Ottawa offers various resources for SSAT preparation, including local tutoring services, online practice tests, and study materials available through platforms like testpreview.com or ssatprep.com. Additionally, having your child take a few practice tests can help identify their strengths and weaknesses, allowing for a more targeted and effective preparation plan.
By researching the specific requirements of your target schools and utilizing available preparation resources, you can ensure your child is well-prepared to take the SSAT and achieve their best possible score.
Important Points about SSAT
When preparing your child for the SSAT, it’s important to understand the unique demands of the test and the specific expectations of the schools they are applying to. Here are key points to consider:
1. School-Specific Standards
Unlike standardized exams like the IELTS, TOEFL, or SAT, the SSAT does not have a universal "passing" score. Each private or independent school sets its own admission standards, so it’s crucial to clarify what score your child’s prospective school requires. Some schools may prioritize certain sections over others, such as the Verbal or Reading Comprehension sections, while others may place significant weight on the Writing Sample, even though it is not scored. Contact the school’s admissions office to understand their specific criteria and tailor your child’s preparation accordingly.
2. Vocabulary and Reading Focus
The SSAT is heavily focused on vocabulary and reading comprehension, making it essential for your child to have a strong foundation in academic English. If your child struggles with advanced vocabulary, adjectives, adverbs, or complex reading passages, it may be wise to delay SSAT preparation and focus on building these skills first. Practice tests, available on platforms like testpreview.com or ssatprep.com, can help identify areas where your child needs improvement.
3. Writing Sample Considerations
While the Writing Sample is not scored, some schools review it closely as part of their evaluation process. If your target school values this section, ensure your child practices organizing their thoughts and writing coherently under time constraints. Even if the school does not emphasize it, developing strong writing skills can benefit your child’s overall academic performance.
4. Self-Study vs. Tutoring
There are numerous self-study resources available, including SSAT prep books and online practice tests. However, independent study can be challenging for children, as they often need guidance to understand their mistakes and develop effective test-taking strategies. A qualified tutor can provide personalized instruction, help identify weaknesses, and teach strategies to improve performance. In Ottawa, Richmond Education offers a variety of SSAT courses, and local bookstores carry SSAT study guides, making it easier to find resources.
5. Realistic Preparation Timeline
Preparing for the SSAT requires a significant time investment. Beyond test-specific practice, your child should engage in extensive reading to build vocabulary and improve comprehension skills. Ensure your child understands the commitment involved and is motivated to put in the effort. A well-structured timeline, combining self-study and tutoring, can help your child stay on track and achieve their target score.
Final Thoughts
Before enrolling your child in an SSAT program, assess their readiness by having them take practice tests and evaluate their vocabulary and reading skills. Research the specific requirements of your target schools and consider whether tutoring or self-study is the best approach. With careful planning and preparation, your child can approach the SSAT with confidence and achieve their academic goals.
1. School-Specific Standards
Unlike standardized exams like the IELTS, TOEFL, or SAT, the SSAT does not have a universal "passing" score. Each private or independent school sets its own admission standards, so it’s crucial to clarify what score your child’s prospective school requires. Some schools may prioritize certain sections over others, such as the Verbal or Reading Comprehension sections, while others may place significant weight on the Writing Sample, even though it is not scored. Contact the school’s admissions office to understand their specific criteria and tailor your child’s preparation accordingly.
2. Vocabulary and Reading Focus
The SSAT is heavily focused on vocabulary and reading comprehension, making it essential for your child to have a strong foundation in academic English. If your child struggles with advanced vocabulary, adjectives, adverbs, or complex reading passages, it may be wise to delay SSAT preparation and focus on building these skills first. Practice tests, available on platforms like testpreview.com or ssatprep.com, can help identify areas where your child needs improvement.
3. Writing Sample Considerations
While the Writing Sample is not scored, some schools review it closely as part of their evaluation process. If your target school values this section, ensure your child practices organizing their thoughts and writing coherently under time constraints. Even if the school does not emphasize it, developing strong writing skills can benefit your child’s overall academic performance.
4. Self-Study vs. Tutoring
There are numerous self-study resources available, including SSAT prep books and online practice tests. However, independent study can be challenging for children, as they often need guidance to understand their mistakes and develop effective test-taking strategies. A qualified tutor can provide personalized instruction, help identify weaknesses, and teach strategies to improve performance. In Ottawa, Richmond Education offers a variety of SSAT courses, and local bookstores carry SSAT study guides, making it easier to find resources.
5. Realistic Preparation Timeline
Preparing for the SSAT requires a significant time investment. Beyond test-specific practice, your child should engage in extensive reading to build vocabulary and improve comprehension skills. Ensure your child understands the commitment involved and is motivated to put in the effort. A well-structured timeline, combining self-study and tutoring, can help your child stay on track and achieve their target score.
Final Thoughts
Before enrolling your child in an SSAT program, assess their readiness by having them take practice tests and evaluate their vocabulary and reading skills. Research the specific requirements of your target schools and consider whether tutoring or self-study is the best approach. With careful planning and preparation, your child can approach the SSAT with confidence and achieve their academic goals.
Home Tutoring
Many parents find it actually more economical to have their children study SSAT at home, with a tailor-made program, since it is more focused and therefore more efficient. Check the SSAT tutor Ottawa page for availability.
Outside of the Home Tutoring
Tutorials with children can be arranged outside the home if this is what you’d prefer and the best locations are either in a local Public Library in Ottawa in a private room pre-booked or on the day of study. Send a request in and we can have this arranged for you.
Taking Classes
SSAT is offered at a number of learning centers, especially those targeting the after-school study children. SSAT test is a demanding test, particularly in terms of vocabulary needs, and is often not administered well in multiple leveled classrooms. Do go through a few practice tests before enrolling or your child in a program to find out if hes or she is ready for one in terms of vocabulary and reading level. It may be more fruitful to send him or her for ELT training instead.
Self-Study
Self-studying for the SSAT can be challenging, as it requires children to focus for extended periods on vocabulary building, reading comprehension, and essay writing. While it’s possible to prepare independently, maintaining motivation and discipline can be difficult without guidance. To support your child’s self-study, here are some recommended resources and tips:
Recommended SSAT Prep Books
Tips for Effective Self-Study
When to Consider Tutoring
If self-study proves too challenging or your child struggles to stay motivated, consider enrolling them in a tailored tutoring program. A tutor can provide structure, clarify difficult concepts, and offer personalized strategies to improve performance.
In summary, while self-studying for the SSAT is possible with the right resources and discipline, it requires careful planning and consistent effort. By choosing the right materials and creating a structured study plan, you can help your child prepare effectively for the test.
Recommended SSAT Prep Books
- McGraw Hills SSAT/ISEE Book:
Widely regarded as the best SSAT prep book, it offers comprehensive content, practice questions, and strategies. Its engaging format makes it a favorite among students. - Princeton Review’s Cracking the SSAT:
This book is well-structured and user-friendly, with clear explanations and effective test-taking strategies. - Barrons and Kaplan SSAT Prep Books:
These are reliable options, though they may be slightly drier in tone compared to McGraw Hill’s or Princeton Review’s offerings. - Score-raising Vocabulary Builder by Paul Simpson:
Ideal for students who need to strengthen their vocabulary before tackling the SSAT. It’s particularly useful for lower-level students or those building foundational skills.
Tips for Effective Self-Study
- Set a Schedule:
Break study sessions into manageable chunks (e.g., 30-60 minutes) to maintain focus and avoid burnout. - Use Practice Tests:
Regularly take timed practice tests to identify strengths and weaknesses. Websites like testpreview.com and ssatprep.com offer free resources. - Focus on Vocabulary:
Dedicate time daily to learning new words, using flashcards, or apps like Quizlet. - Encourage Reading:
Beyond SSAT materials, encourage your child to read widely—novels, newspapers, and academic articles—to build vocabulary and comprehension skills.
When to Consider Tutoring
If self-study proves too challenging or your child struggles to stay motivated, consider enrolling them in a tailored tutoring program. A tutor can provide structure, clarify difficult concepts, and offer personalized strategies to improve performance.
In summary, while self-studying for the SSAT is possible with the right resources and discipline, it requires careful planning and consistent effort. By choosing the right materials and creating a structured study plan, you can help your child prepare effectively for the test.
Online study
SSAT resources are not difficult to find. First, go to our SSAT exam page and get information on study tips, and you can also find a blog that regularly posts strategies, skills and topics and information on recent exams. I have also posted practice exams in reading and writing and you can even take a mock writing test and be scored for free.
Test Taking
In Ottawa, the SSAT is administered at a limited number of test centers, primarily private schools authorized to host the exam. Below is a list of the main locations where the SSAT is offered, along with their addresses and contact information for registration and inquiries:
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1. Ashbury College
2. Elmwood School
3. Académie Providence
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Registration Process
Registering for the SSAT in Ottawa involves several steps, and understanding the process, deadlines, and timelines is crucial to securing a spot for your child. Below is a detailed discussion of the registration process, including key dates and time intervals to keep in mind.
1. Registration Process
To register for the SSAT, follow these steps:
2. Key Dates and Deadlines
The SSAT is offered on Standard Test Dates and Flex Test Dates. Below are the typical timelines:
Standard Test Dates
These are fixed dates set by the SSAT Board and are held at authorized test centers like Ashbury College. Just a heads-up: if you’re looking to sign up for the SSAT, registration is closed right now, but it’ll open back up on August 1. In the meantime, if you can’t find a Standard test date or location that works for you, don’t stress—there are other options like Flex testing or taking the test online through Prometric or even at home. Oh, and if your child needs accommodations, make sure to register at least 14 days before the test date since that’s the cutoff. Spots can fill up fast, so it’s a good idea to check early and figure out what works best for your family. While these below dates are long passed they do give a sense of the pattern of typical dates.
The 2023-2024 Standard Test Dates were:
Flex Test Dates
These are arranged by individual schools and offer more flexibility. However, they must be scheduled directly with the school and are subject to availability.
3. Test Day Details
4. Receiving Scores
5. Accommodations
If your child requires testing accommodations (e.g., extra time, a separate room), you must submit a request during registration and provide supporting documentation. Approval can take several weeks, so plan accordingly.
Final Tips
1. Registration Process
To register for the SSAT, follow these steps:
- Create an Account:
Visit the official SSAT website (ssat.org) and create an account for your child. This account will be used to manage registration, view scores, and access preparation materials. - Select a Test Date and Location:
Choose a test date and location that works best for your child. In Ottawa, the primary test center is Ashbury College, but other schools like Elmwood School and Académie Providence may also host the test. - Complete the Registration Form:
Provide all required information, including your child’s grade level (to determine whether they will take the Elementary, Middle, or Upper Level test) and any accommodations they may need. - Pay the Registration Fee:
Fees vary depending on the test date and location. Standard registration costs approximately 180−180−250 USD, while late registration or changes may incur additional fees.
2. Key Dates and Deadlines
The SSAT is offered on Standard Test Dates and Flex Test Dates. Below are the typical timelines:
Standard Test Dates
These are fixed dates set by the SSAT Board and are held at authorized test centers like Ashbury College. Just a heads-up: if you’re looking to sign up for the SSAT, registration is closed right now, but it’ll open back up on August 1. In the meantime, if you can’t find a Standard test date or location that works for you, don’t stress—there are other options like Flex testing or taking the test online through Prometric or even at home. Oh, and if your child needs accommodations, make sure to register at least 14 days before the test date since that’s the cutoff. Spots can fill up fast, so it’s a good idea to check early and figure out what works best for your family. While these below dates are long passed they do give a sense of the pattern of typical dates.
The 2023-2024 Standard Test Dates were:
- October 14, 2023
- November 11, 2023
- December 9, 2023
- January 6, 2024
- February 3, 2024
- March 2, 2024
- April 20, 2024
- June 8, 2024
- Registration Deadlines:
- Regular Registration: Closes 3 weeks before the test date.
- Late Registration: Available until 2 weeks before the test date, with an additional fee.
- Rush Registration: Available until 1 week before the test date, with a higher fee.
Flex Test Dates
These are arranged by individual schools and offer more flexibility. However, they must be scheduled directly with the school and are subject to availability.
3. Test Day Details
- Test Duration:
- Elementary Level: 1 hour 50 minutes (plus a 15-30 minute break).
- Middle/Upper Level: 2 hours 50 minutes (plus a 10-15 minute break).
- Arrival Time: Students should arrive at least 30 minutes early to check in and settle in.
- What to Bring: A valid photo ID, admission ticket, sharpened pencils, and an eraser. Calculators are not allowed.
4. Receiving Scores
- Score Release: Scores are typically available within 2 weeks of the test date. You can access them through your SSAT account.
- Score Reporting: Scores are sent directly to the schools you selected during registration. Additional score reports can be requested for a fee.
5. Accommodations
If your child requires testing accommodations (e.g., extra time, a separate room), you must submit a request during registration and provide supporting documentation. Approval can take several weeks, so plan accordingly.
Final Tips
- Plan Ahead: Register early to secure your preferred test date and location.
- Prepare Thoroughly: Use practice tests and study materials to familiarize your child with the test format.
- Confirm Details: Contact the test center (e.g., Ashbury College) a few days before the test to confirm the schedule and any last-minute changes
Fees
When registering for the SSAT in Ottawa, it’s important to understand the fees involved, as they can vary depending on the test center and additional services. Below is a detailed breakdown of the costs and cancellation policies for the SSAT in Ottawa:
1. Registration Fees
The base registration fee for the SSAT is consistent across all test centers, but additional fees may apply depending on the services you require. Here’s a general overview:
2. Additional Fees
3. Fees by Test Center
While the registration fees are standardized, some test centers in Ottawa may charge additional administrative fees. Below are the primary test centers and their specific details: However, none of the institutions in Ottawa charge additional fees that I am aware of so you can just go by the standard fees. Remember they are in US currency so translate accordingly.
Ashbury College
4. Cancellation Policy
If you need to cancel or reschedule the SSAT, here’s what you need to know:
5. Tips for Managing Fees
By understanding the fees and policies upfront, you can plan effectively and avoid unexpected costs during the SSAT registration process.
1. Registration Fees
The base registration fee for the SSAT is consistent across all test centers, but additional fees may apply depending on the services you require. Here’s a general overview:
- Standard Registration Fee: Approximately $180−$250 USD (varies slightly by test date and location).
- Late Registration Fee: An additional $45 USD if registering within 2 weeks of the test date.
- Rush Registration Fee: An additional $85 USD if registering within 1 week of the test date.
2. Additional Fees
- Score Reports:
- The first score report is included in the registration fee.
- Additional score reports cost $17 USD each.
- Test Changes:
- Changing the test date or location incurs a fee of $35 USD.
- Accommodations:
- There is no additional fee for requesting accommodations, but documentation must be submitted and approved in advance.
3. Fees by Test Center
While the registration fees are standardized, some test centers in Ottawa may charge additional administrative fees. Below are the primary test centers and their specific details: However, none of the institutions in Ottawa charge additional fees that I am aware of so you can just go by the standard fees. Remember they are in US currency so translate accordingly.
Ashbury College
- Address: 362 Mariposa Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1M 0T3
- Contact: (613) 749-5954 | [email protected]
- Additional Fees: None beyond the standard SSAT fees.
- Address: 261 Buena Vista Road, Ottawa, ON K1M 0V9
- Contact: (613) 749-6761 | [email protected]
- Additional Fees: None beyond the standard SSAT fees.
- Address: 700 Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa, ON K2C 1N4
- Contact: (613) 721-8797 | [email protected]
- Additional Fees: None beyond the standard SSAT fees.
4. Cancellation Policy
If you need to cancel or reschedule the SSAT, here’s what you need to know:
- Cancellation Refund:
- Cancellations made more than 30 days before the test date are eligible for a partial refund of $65 USD.
- Cancellations made within 30 days of the test date are not eligible for a refund.
- Rescheduling:
- You can change the test date or location for a fee of $35 USD, provided there is availability.
5. Tips for Managing Fees
- Register Early: Avoid late or rush registration fees by signing up as soon as registration opens.
- Plan Ahead: Confirm your child’s readiness and availability before registering to minimize the need for changes or cancellations.
- Check with the Test Center: While most centers in Ottawa do not charge additional fees, it’s always a good idea to confirm directly.
By understanding the fees and policies upfront, you can plan effectively and avoid unexpected costs during the SSAT registration process.