Paper-Based SSAT: Students approved for the use of a laptop for word processing their writing sample are responsible for providing this equipment on test day, as well as a USB flash drive or writable CD to store their written work for all paper-based SSAT administrations. Students must also be prepared to save and provide the finished writing sample by USB flash drive or CD. Printers are not available at paper-based testing centers.
Computer-Based SSAT At-Home: Students completing the computer-based SSAT At-Home will need to have a computer available on which to complete the test itself; however, the writing sample portion of the test will not have spell checking functionality built into the software. Therefore, if the student would like to do so, they may use an electronic spell checking device during the written portion of the SSAT. The device will need to be shown to the proctor during the initial check-in procedures.
Computer-Based SSAT at Prometric: Students will not be required to provide a laptop or data storage device if completing any computer-based SSAT at a Prometric Test Center; however, if any student approved for the use of a laptop would like to use an electronic spell checking device to assist them with composing their writing sample, they will be permitted to do so on test day as the computer-based testing platform is not built with this functionality.
The family will be responsible for providing an electronic spell checking device for their student should they decide to use one to support their writing on test day.
Any student sitting for a paper-based SSAT are permitted to use their laptop for ONLY the writing sample. All other sections are to be completed using paper/pencil.
The use of Microsoft Word, Apple Pages, or any other basic word processor is strongly encouraged for all paper-based SSAT test takers to ensure the file submitted is accessible and able to be processed. It is recommended that the electronic file be saved as one of the following file types: .doc; .docx; .txt; .pages; or .pdf.
Internet-based software programs that permit collaboration, such as Google Docs, are strictly prohibited on test day as part of any paper-based SSAT administration.
Students are not required to disable their internet connection during testing; however, students are NOT permitted to access any type of internet browser or search engine, nor are they permitted to access any non-approved computer applications on test day. Any unauthorized use of a laptop/computer may result in a student's dismissal from testing and their test being reported as an irregularity with no refund being provided for any invalidated test.
Use of any grammar or spell checking functions built into the word processor is permitted as part of any paper-based SSAT administration. The use of specific software programs for grammar or predictive text such as Grammarly or Co-Writer, must be approved separately and are only permitted for use when completing paper-based testing at this time.
*Example of Acceptable SSAT Electronic Spell Checking Device
