What do these numbers mean and how do I read them?
The numbers you see overlayed on the color bars are percentile score ranges for each section. Percentiles define how a student’s performance compares to all other same-grade students who took the same test. Possible percentile scores range from 1 to 99.
For example, a score in the 20th percentile indicates a better performance than 20 percent of other students, but a poorer performance compared to the remaining 79 percent.
When you take a Test Innovators diagnostic practice test, you’ll receive a complete score report. Your report will include authentic percentiles along with target ranges for the schools you’re applying to, so you can gauge your preparedness before you reach your official exam day.
What are all of these colors?
We have collected data from thousands of students applying to hundreds of competitive private schools. Based on this data, the tri-colored bars represent how certain scores tend to affect applications to this school.
Red: These scores are usually detrimental to applications. We’ve seen students get into just about every school with just about every score, but students with scores in this range need the other parts of their application to be extremely strong.
Yellow: Scores in this range neither help nor hinder applications.
Green: Scores in this range help applications by demonstrating test-taking proficiency above the usual applicant pool. They show the school that the student has significant academic capability and promise.
How important are my SSAT scores?
We don’t believe that any student gets into a school based solely on standardized test scores. The application, interview, recommendations and other components are all critical for successful applicants. With that being said, we have seen that low scores can be an obstacle to admissions, especially for competitive schools that receive a very large number of applicants.