Test Flexible Policy

This admissions season, Eastside Prep is moving from requiring admissions test scores for each applicant to being test flexible. Read on to learn more about this new practice and how to determine the best testing choice for your student for the Eastside Prep admissions process.

What Does Test Flexible Mean?

Test flexible means families can choose to submit the results of any norm-referenced testing, either standardized testing or admissions testing, to complete their application to Eastside Prep. Norm-referenced testing compares an individual student’s academic performance with their peer group so that we can better understand their learning in the context of this larger group. EPS requires submission of only ONE set of test scores. It is not necessary to provide both standardized testing and admissions testing, though some students may choose to send admissions test scores separately in addition to standardized testing sent automatically with their school records. Note: We do not require and will not accept cognitive testing (IQ testing) or neuropsychological evaluations during the admissions process, though educational evaluations related to learning differences can be submitted after enrollment.

Our Philosophy

At EPS, we are dedicated to challenging and supporting all students. We believe daily engagement in learning is crucial to being an active part of our community. While tests are one way of assessing academic performance and engagement in learning, we recognize that test results can be affected by a student’s physical and mental health, environment, and stress levels. For these reasons, we have adopted a test flexible policy that allows families to choose which test score to submit. EPS has no minimum score requirements, as our goal is to enroll a diverse group of learners. We know that students have different strengths, and a test score should not be the sole determinant of a student’s capabilities. This is why EPS takes a holistic approach of reviewing the whole student through all application steps (including teacher evaluations, Ravenna family forms, Student Online Assessments, and more).

With this approach in mind, here are the testing options that students and their families can choose from:

Standardized Testing (Preferred Option)

Standardized Testing (Preferred Option)

Examples of standardized tests include SBAs, MAP, ERBs, and Iowa tests. These scores should be included with the school records sent directly by their school(s) of attendance. Standardized tests must have been taken within the past two years.

Why We Prefer Standardized Testing:

Comfortable Environment | These tests are usually taken at the student’s school, rather than a potentially unfamiliar testing site.
Shorter Sections | Standardized tests are often administered in shorter segments, which can make them less daunting for students.
Accommodations | Students can receive learning accommodations through their school, without needing to submit new documentation.
Convenience and Cost | Standardized testing generally involves less time and expense for families since it has already been taken in school.

Admissions Testing (ISEE or SSAT)

Admissions Testing (ISEE or SSAT)

While EPS prefers to receive standardized testing results, we will also accept ISEE or SSAT admissions tests. We do not have a preference between ISEE and SSAT testing. We offer both test types in our campus-based paper testing sessions.

Who Might Choose Admissions Testing:

Students whose schools haven’t conducted standardized testing in the past two years.
Homeschooled students or any students whose program has not administered standardized testing.
Those attending school internationally.
Students who believe their standardized test performance alone does not accurately reflect their abilities in school subjects.

Students applying to other schools that require testing who will already have admissions testing scores to submit.