Standardized testing requirement

All students applying to middle and high school (Grades 5-12) must submit the results of a recent standardized test as part of their application. Listed are accepted tests along with registration information. Many of the tests are offered around the world at host school sites or Prometric (computer-based testing) centers. Some applicants may have already taken one of the exams as part of their current school's assessment program. New options allow families to choose a date to take the ISEE from their own homes proctored by the testing company.

Please plan in advance for testing. Registration can fill up quickly and testing providers often have deadlines three weeks in advance of the testing date. Students requesting to test with accommodations (for example, extra time) should plan at least six weeks in advance to allow time for approval.

We know that this requirement generates the most questions and concerns from our prospects, so please take time to read through the information below and let our office know how we can assist you.

Saturday testing dates at ASL
Date	ISEE	SSAT
14 October 2023	yes	no
11 November 2023	yes	no
9 December 2023	yes	yes
6 January 2024	no	yes
13 January 2024	yes	no
2 March 2024	yes	no
20 April 2024	yes	no

* Students applying under the 31 January deadline should plan to take the exam on or before 13 January. The March exam is suitable for candidates applying under the 15 March deadline.

Accepted tests and registration

Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE)

About
The Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) consists of four multiple choice sections (verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, reading comprehension and mathematics achievement) and a timed essay. Detailed information is available at erblearn.org.

Grade and exam levels
Levels are based on the grade to which the student is applying.
Grades 5 and 6: lower level exam
Grades 7 and 8: middle level exam
Grade 9 and above: upper level exam

Register
Search for test sites and dates at www.erblearn.org

Testing locations and options

At a host school close to your home - paper-based, in person
The American School in London proctored - paper-based (on campus) or computer-based (at home).
ERB proctored - computer-based, at-home testing.
At a Prometric center in North America or around the globe. - computer-based, by appointment

Cost and fee waivers
Between $140 and $200 with additional fees for late registration. Fee waivers are available on request to families applying for financial aid.

Sending scores Please ensure testing scores are sent directly to ASL by referencing our school code, 724412, during registration.

Note The dates on the ISEE website are in US format (mm/dd/yy)

ISEE helpline
1 (800) 446-0320
iseeoperations@erblearn.org
9 am-5 pm, EST
Monday-Friday

Secondary Schools Admissions Test (SSAT)

About
The Secondary School Admissions Test (SSAT) begins with a timed writing prompt and ends with multiple choice sections in verbal reasoning, reading and quantitative skills. Detailed information is available at ssat.org.

Grade and exam levels - Applicants to Grades 6 - 12
Levels are based on the grade the student is currently in.
Students in Grades 5-7: middle level exam
Students in Grades 8-11: upper level exam

Testing location options

At a host school close to your home - paper-based, in person
The American School in London proctored - paper-based (on campus)
Prometric (computer-based testing center) located around the world.
At-home, computer-based option. Available in the US and Canada only.

Register
Search for test sites and dates at ssat.org

Cost and fee waivers
Between $149 and $287 depending on option and location. Fee waivers are available on request to families applying for financial aid.

Sending scores Please ensure testing scores are sent directly to ASL by referencing our school code, M740, during registration.

Note The dates on the SSAT website are in US format (mm/dd/yy)

SSAT help
1 (800) 683-4440
9 am-5 pm, EST
Monday-Friday
support page

MAP/NWEA

MAP testing
ASL accepts MAP testing from students who can provide a history of results covering more than one testing season and includes both mathematics and reading. Students may have taken this test in their current school. For example, if the student has scores from fall 2022 and spring 2023, or spring 2023 and fall 2023, MAP scores will meet this admissions requirement.

If MAPs are given in your child's school, results may have been shared alongside your student's report card or be available from the school on request.

Comprehensive Testing Program from the ERB (CTP)

PSAT, SAT and ACT (US tests)

The PSAT, SAT and ACT are common US tests that are supported by most US high school programs and accepted as part of most US university admissions. Usually, students will be guided through registration at their current school.

Please note that this requirement is distinct from UK SATs testing, which we do not accept.

Additional testing information

Tests we do not accept

Accommodations for learning differences and other health impairments

Students with documented learning differences or other health impairments may be eligible for testing accommodations, including allowances for extra time, assistive technology, large-print formats and typed essays.

Accommodations must be approved in advance by the companies overseeing each test and registration, testing dates and options may differ from those listed on this page. Be sure to plan in advance as the approval process may take up to six weeks. For more information, please review the accommodations information on each provider's website.

Passing scores, test preparation and other FAQs

Specific information about each exam can be found on the providers' websites but we are most often asked the following questions.

How does ASL use the testing scores for admissions?

The admissions committee reviews each application holistically; standardized testing scores are never a deciding factor in our decision process. Rather, testing scores are viewed in the context of the complete file where a child's success and engagement across school years provides the most valuable information. Exam scores provide one objective measurement we consider as we review applicants from a variety of schools, curricula and backgrounds.

How much should I prepare my child for the ISEE or SSAT?

We only recommend light preparation for our testing requirement. Test providers offer very good resources on their websites with sample questions and preparation advice. We do encourage families to use these resources with their child. We do not recommend tutoring or intensive preparation.

What scores must my child receive to gain admissions?

We do not use a passing score when making offers of admissions. Scores are viewed alongside other documentation to gain the widest view of each application. If you have concerns about your child's testing scores or are unsure how to interpret the results, please contact admissions to discuss. Oftentimes, families worry needlessly over perfectly acceptable scores.

Is the ISEE or SSAT better for my child?

The two exams are very similar and there is no meaningful difference in the format or type of question. Choose the exam that is most convenient for your schedule and location.

Should I have my child take more than one exam?

We strongly discourage this practice as it is often unnecessary and is burdensome on a child. If you have concerns about your child's scores or if there was a condition or disruption during the test that you believe meaningfully affected your child's performance, please speak with us before registering for another exam. Testing providers often limit the frequency a student can take an exam so please read their information carefully.

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