Quick Answer for Busy Parents
BASIS Independent Fremont requires applicants to Grades 2–9 to complete either the ISEE or the SSAT. It accepts both, but it administers and coordinates only the ISEE on its campuses. For 2027–28 Regular Admissions, every step, including testing, must be complete by February 12, 2027.
What BASIS Requires
Standardized testing is one of five pieces of the BASIS application, alongside school-sent transcripts, math and English teacher recommendations, the online application, and a Family Meeting. Steps can be completed in any order, but all must be done by the February 12 deadline.
ISEE vs. SSAT at a Glance
| ISEE | SSAT | |
| Accepted by BASIS Fremont | Yes | Yes |
| Offered on BASIS campuses | Yes, administered and coordinated by BASIS | No; take it elsewhere |
| Good fit when | You want to test on campus with BASIS coordinating | Your child is already preparing for other schools that use it |
Not Sure Which Test Is Right?
We help families choose a test and build a preparation plan that fits the calendar.
How to Choose
If BASIS is your main target, the ISEE is often simplest, since BASIS administers and coordinates it on its own campuses. If your child is applying to several independent schools and already preparing for the SSAT, BASIS will accept that score. The best choice is the test your child can prepare for well and take with confidence.
When to Test
- Map your test date backward from the February 12, 2027 completion deadline.
- Leave time for a retest window if your child’s first attempt underperforms.
- Start test prep in the fall rather than over winter break.
- Coordinate with transcript and recommendation requests so everything lands on time.
Making the Test Work for Your Child
A test score is one part of a BASIS application, but a strong one helps. We help families prepare efficiently and support students with academic coaching when needed.
Let’s Build Your Testing Plan
Talk with an advisor about the ISEE, SSAT, and the BASIS timeline.