SSAT vs. ISEE: how the middle level tests differ
Updated November 3, 2026
Private schools usually accept either the SSAT or the ISEE, and some families take both. They test the same broad skills, but the question types differ in a few ways that matter for prep. Rookling is built around the middle level SSAT, and much of it carries over to the ISEE.
The main differences
| Middle level SSAT | Middle level ISEE | |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal | Synonyms and analogies | Synonyms and sentence completions (no analogies) |
| Math | Two quantitative sections | Quantitative reasoning and math achievement |
| Reading | Passages with five-choice questions | Passages with four-choice questions |
| Writing | Writing sample, not scored | Essay, not scored |
| Wrong answers | Take away a quarter point | No penalty, so always guess |
What carries over
- Vocabulary and synonym strategies, which both tests reward.
- Reading skills: main idea, inference, and finding the line that proves an answer.
- Most of the math content, from fractions to basic algebra and geometry.
- Planning and writing a clear piece in a short time.
What to practice separately
For the SSAT, analogies and the guessing rule. For the ISEE, sentence completions and its math question types. Check each school's requirements, and the test maker's own pages for the current format, before choosing.
Rookling covers synonyms, analogies, reading, math, and writing for the middle level SSAT. See what's on the SSAT.
Questions parents ask
- Is one test easier than the other?
- Not really. Some kids do better with analogies (SSAT), others with sentence completions (ISEE). Try a few questions of each type and see which feels better.
- Does Rookling prep for the ISEE?
- Partly. Synonyms, reading, most math, and writing carry over. Rookling doesn't yet have ISEE sentence completions or its math question types.