Financial aid, maybe. They don't give academic scholarships. -- parent of 99th SSAT percentile (overall) kid who got waitlisted at Sidwell.

my child just received his results for the ssat, he is in the 99th percentile overall, verbal and reading scores were 761 and math was an 800. My wife and I are both going through foreclosures on investment properties and our spotless credit will be deadbeat. Our son swims, scuba dives, attends Chinese school. Dad is now unemployed, so our only option would be a scholarship, any chances?

My daughter (rejected at Sidwell) has all of that. I truly believe that my less-than-100% committed attitude at the parent interview cost my daughter an acceptance.

Scores are only a very small part of the big picture. The schools look at the whole child. I've known plenty of kids who scored at the very top and were all turned down because they had little else to offer. If there's one factor that is more important than any else, it is how your child comes across in the interview. They are looking for excited learners, kids who will bring great things to the table and also a spark.

I know another 99th percentile who was turned down by Sidwell, and the student and family were interested.

9:07 here. I want to add that they don't break down scores on the SSAT into "99.9" or "99.8". The top score is 99th percentile.

And kids who get 99th percentile on the SSAT in 9th grade (my daughter) don't get in everywhere. She was waitlisted at Sidwell. We weren't entirely enthusiastic about the school, which came through in my parent interview. To keep all options open, don't let them know about any reservations you might have.

SSAT in the 80s or higher works for many schools, including the most selective.

Since you are confused, no need to worry. This is a privilaged place to be. Just put your best foot forward and use your common sense.

Anonymous wrote:
My impression from watching several grades apply K-8 to HS: 99 range and well rounded and likable is almost a sure winner. 99 and likable also a great bet. But if the 99 is not there, it gets harder and harder. And if there is one big strike against, then chances go way down.

Are K kids getting 99 range in SSAT? Are we talking about the same test?
So for middle to high school, you need to score 99 on the SSAT, and need to win a personality competition, and need to have the wealthiest parents (out of the applicant pool).

I am confused as to what kind of a nerd the admission folks are looking for

Anonymous wrote:"Of course not. 99th percentile means that 98% of the kids get less than 99%.
Lets hope your kid gets their brains from someone else.

Just in case others make this mistake, 99%-ile means that the test taker scored above 99% of the population (not 98%). That's why there is no 100%-ile.

Yes absolutely.

I have heard there are fewer 99.9% SSAT scores than for WPPSI scores.

SSAT scores also matter for Sixth and Seventh Grade applicants.

Yes determinative of rejection. Yes great test scores do not mean acceptance.