When should students in Singapore start preparing for the SSAT or other admissions tests?

The earlier you start test prep, the better. Ideally, you want to start about six months to a year before the test—enough time to breathe, not panic, and actually get comfortable with the material. It’s not just about cramming in facts. It’s about building the skills and confidence to walk into that testing room and feel ready.

Now, if your child’s schedule is already packed with school, CCA, music, or sports—or if there’s a subject that’s a bit of a struggle (math is a common one)—starting sooner is just smart. You don’t want to leave it until the last minute and end up racing the clock.

At Cardinal Education, we work with students in Singapore all the time, and one of the first things we do is figure out where your child stands. From there, we match them with a tutor who knows exactly how to prep international students for the SSAT or whichever test they’re taking. It’s not one-size-fits-all. We make it personal, we keep track of progress, and yes—we push when needed. Because it’s not just about a test score, it’s about opening doors to schools where your child will thrive.