The SSAT, or Secondary School Admission Test, is a standardized test used by private and independent schools to assess students' academic abilities. It is typically taken by students in grades 3 through 11 who are applying for admission to middle or high schools. The test evaluates skills in reading, mathematics, and verbal reasoning. The SSAT consists of multiple-choice questions and an essay section. Scores are used by schools to help determine a student's readiness for the academic challenges of their programs. There are different levels of the test, including the Elementary SSAT, Middle SSAT, and Upper SSAT, catering to various age groups.