Finding the right New York City SSAT prep solution for your child couldn't be easier with the help of the experts at Varsity Tutors. Whether your child will be facing the Elementary Level, Middle Level, or Upper Level SSAT, we know you want to help your child do their best. That's why it's so important to find the right professional academic resources to support your child as they work towards their SSAT scoring goals.
The SSAT is a highly regarded standardize examination used by admissions officials for private and independent schools as part of their admission process. Continue reading to learn more about what the various level of the SSAT cover and how Varsity Tutors can help you find the right prep solution for your child's academic needs.
What can New York City SSAT prep cover?
Before discussing what a prep solution can cover it's important to talk about the format of the test itself. The SSAT has three separate levels. The Elementary Level SSAT is designed for students who will be applying to enter fourth or fifth grade. The Middle Level SSAT is for students who will be applying to enter a middle school grade. The Upper Level SSAT is designed for students who want to gain entrance to a private or independent high school.
All three levels of the SSAT include the same types of sections. The section titles of the SSAT are Quantitative, Reading, Verbal, Experimental, and Writing Sample. The Upper Level and Middle Level SSAT have two Quantitative portions. The Lower Level SSAT has only one. For all levels, the writing sample and the experimental section are not graded. The Upper Level and Middle Level SSAT testers will have just under three hours to complete all parts of their test. The lower level SSAT tester will have just under two hours to complete all items on their exam.
The Quantitative section of the SSAT evaluates your child's grade level appropriate math skills. During no portion of any level of the SSAT are calculators permitted. Some of the math skills your child may need to review depending on their grade level for this section included basic arithmetic such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, measurement, as well as more advanced skills such as probability, word problems, coordinate geometry, equations, identifying area and perimeter, and other concepts associated with algebra and geometry.
The Verbal and Reading sections of all levels of the SSAT evaluate your child's reading comprehension and English language skills. Some of the specific concepts that can be covered during these portions of the exam include determining the author's purpose, understanding and evaluating opinions and arguments, identifying main idea, finding details, making inferences, making predictions, grammar, sentence structure, vocabulary, punctuation, spelling, and other grade level appropriate skills related to standard English language conventions.
The Writing Sample portion of all levels of the SSAT are related to the previously described English sections. While the writing sample your child produces will not be graded, it will be sent to any school to which they apply. Since admissions officials will see it, it makes sense to have your child review for this section of the test as well. Some of the skills that are useful when completing a writing sample include effective organization of a topic, basic writing skills, persuasive writing tactics, and providing supporting statements with examples.
All New York City SSAT prep resources can help your child prepare for any of the subject area content covered on the test.
How can a New York City SSAT prep class help my child prepare for their upcoming exam?
When you enroll your child in a prep course, they will have access to the same type of structured learning environment available in a typical classroom. One of the most significant differences is that the course is entirely online. However, this is an advantage for busy families because it means there is no need to arrange for transportation to and from class.
You have the option of enrolling your child in two week or four-week classes. Two week classes are great for students who do better during short bursts of high-intensity academic endeavors. Four-week classes are good for students who perform better when they are given more time to acclimate to the environment and information being presented. All of our classes are modular in design, so we can have new sections beginning each week, which makes it easy for you and your child to get started.
During a classroom session, the teacher will provide direct instruction to deliver the lesson and then may facilitate group conversations or assign group projects to help the students more fully understand the material.
Prep classes are perfect for students who work well in an interactive and engaging environment. Especially if they are highly motivated to do their best when surrounded by peers.
How is working with a New York City SSAT tutor different from taking a course?
One of the biggest differences between private tutoring sessions and a prep course is the amount of individualized instruction available. Classroom teachers are unable to spend a significant amount of time with each student. Tutors, on the other hand, only have one student at a time and can devote all of their attention to your child. This allows private instructors to get to know your child and customize their lessons based on your child's learning style, academic needs, and SSAT goals.
Another benefit of working with a private instructor is greater scheduling freedom. You can schedule private sessions throughout the week and on weekends during the day or evening hours.
Private instruction is an excellent option for students who thrive with one-on-one instruction.
How can I get my child started with the right New York City SSAT prep solution?
Varsity Tutors can help you determine which New York City SSAT preparation strategy is best for your child. Whether you decide to have your child enroll in a New York City SSAT prep course or you want help connecting with a skilled private instructor, we can help you get started. Contact Varsity Tutors today to begin immediately.
Diptesh: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...a variety of subjects since! I specialize in mathematics and science tutoring as well as standardized exam preparation. In the past, I have helped students achieve significant improvements and success on the SAT, SHSAT, Regents and other exams! I truly believe education is a mutual learning and teaching opportunity and enjoy helping my students achieve a thorough understanding (those "Aha!" moments) and appreciation of whatever they choose to study! In the future, I seek to...
Education & Certification
- New York University - Bachelor of Science, Global Public Health & Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Advanced Placement
- PSAT
- ISEE
- +88 subjects
Kelsey: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...before going on to study her Master's of Business & Science in Analytics at Rutgers University. As a lifelong student, she loves tutoring to help others feel passionate about their own educational paths. Kelsey still attributes her academic successes to the study tactics she developed during her formative elementary and high school years, and she believes that all students (regardless of their field of focus) need to build a solid foundation in writing, reading comprehension,...
Education & Certification
- Cornell University - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- HSPT
- SAT
- +79 subjects
Julia: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...the thrill of excitement at finally solving a difficult math problem, I feel that learning should be fun and viewed as a challenge, not a chore. Throughout my academic career, I have been a well-rounded student, excelling in math as well as language and literature. I am a notoriously good test-taker, a skill developed from solid study habits that I hope to pass on to future students. For me, tutoring is my way of giving...
Education & Certification
- The College of William & Mary - Bachelors, English & Linguistics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- SAT Math
- +41 subjects
Luna : New York SSAT test prep instructor
Upbeat, professional teaching artist with demonstrated success in the primary and secondary education sectors. Skilled in academic intervention and enrichment, motivational interviewing and coaching, standardized exam preparation. Graduated with a Master of Fine Arts in Writing from California College of the Arts (2017) and a Bachelor of Arts in English from CUNY Baccalaureate at Hunter College (2013, Cum Laude). Currently a National Teaching Fellow with Citizen Schools in Brooklyn, NY.
Education & Certification
- CUNY Hunter College - Bachelor in Arts, English
- California College of the Arts - Master of Fine Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SHSAT
- PSAT
- +57 subjects
Theresa: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...school, I tutor students who are at risk or are currently failing, and before school, I offer supplementary SAT help to our school's most advanced students. Now, I am seeking teaching positions for writing as I transition to graduate school next year at Columbia University for fiction. My entire academic career has focused on meaning that could be derived from literature, and articulating those ideas through written or verbal communication. When I began teaching, I...
Education & Certification
- Rutgers University, New Brunswick - Bachelors, Double Major in English and Psychology
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Masters, Masters of Fine Arts in Fiction
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- PSAT
- SAT
- +58 subjects
Rena: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...called Homework Helpers for all four years of high school. I tutored students in kindergarten up to eighth grade in all subjects. Not only did I help them with their homework but I also prepared them for upcoming tests and gave them study skills that would carry them through the entirety of their academic career. I view tutoring as a way to enhance the student's learning experience so that what they take away from school...
Education & Certification
- Rutgers University-New Brunswick - Current Undergrad, Urban Planning and Design
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- SHSAT
- +30 subjects
Sonali: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...working with dedicated, passionate students who are willing to put in the work to achieve their goals. For me, tutoring is about working with a student until they are able to achieve their goal, and even beyond that so that they have the confidence to continue pursuing their dreams. I'm very patient, calm, and thorough when covering a subject, and I truly enjoy watching my students transform into confident, knowledgeable people ready to tackle anything...
Education & Certification
- CUNY Brooklyn College - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- +59 subjects
Sean: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...in academic settings and test-taking. Much of this success derives from long-hours devoted to assignments and preparation, but no small part owes to the way my mind learns. My mind is suited to books and the classroom, and this is a convenience for which I am very fortunate. I recognize, however, that every mind learns in its own way---a reality that institutional education cannot accommodate. I make it my priority to determine what methods of...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Current Undergrad, Classical Stuides
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +53 subjects
Megan: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...majoring in Speech Language Pathology. I enjoy working with individuals to build upon their strengths and give them the tools they need to succeed. I have good study and organizational skills, and I have many tips and tricks to help individuals improve test scores. I really enjoy helping people to reach their full potential in each subject area, and I will do my best to explain concepts in a manner best suited to each individual's...
Education & Certification
- Northeastern University - Current Undergrad, Speech Language Pathology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- +41 subjects
Clio: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...students learn and succeed. Even though I'm a humanities gal, I love and miss math. It's so satisfying to determine what 'x' equals instead of arguing endlessly controversial topics; I love doing both. Outside of film and tutoring, I love to dance both ballet, modern, and to whatever songs my roommates and I play. I would love to be your tutor. I have been working with Varsity for the last 4 years and have watched...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Current Undergrad, Film Studies and Political Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SHSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- +53 subjects
Roshan: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...Medical Program. I have prior experience in tutoring from helping previous clients within SAT Math. I am also available to tutor in SAT Prep and writing. I am very passionate about helping students of all backgrounds realize their dreams and become more passionate and confident about their academics. I provide focused, targeted lessons and often rely on analogies as well as visual teaching aids within my lessons. Feel free to reach out with any questions!
Education & Certification
- The College of New Jersey - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- CogAT
- ACT
- +42 subjects
Sam: New York SSAT test prep instructor
I work and live in New York City. I grew up in Knoxville, TN and went to the University of Pittsburgh, where I studied economics and political science. I'm light-hearted but take academics very seriously. In all of my lessons I combine my curiosity about the world with the idea that learning can be fun.
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh - Bachelors, Political Science and Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +64 subjects
Hanming: New York SSAT test prep instructor
I graduated from University of Washington with a bachelor degree in math and Columbia University with a master degree in actuarial science. I got an average of 3.8 GPA on all my math classes, so I am able to tutor in any level of calculus courses or high school mathematics. I have passed 5 actuarial exams (P, FM, IFM, STAM and SRM), so I can tutor in any of those exams.
Education & Certification
- University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Master of Science, Actuarial Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- ACT
- SAT
- +60 subjects
Clare: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...topic they study ,I hope to be able to find at least one part of each subject that students can personally connect to. Most importantly, if I can impart one thing to my students, it is self-confidence. Performing poorly in one subject can have a deleterious affect on other aspects of academic life and I firmly believe that confidence is half the battle. I love seeing a student's face when they realize they understand a...
Education & Certification
- University of Pennsylvania - Bachelors, History
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- TOEFL
- +31 subjects
Arun: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...gain an understanding of the fundamentals of the subject that they are struggling with. This kind of understanding will help not only with immediate academic gains, but with future success as well. In school environments, students often do not receive individualized attention that seeks out the gaps in their understanding. By spending time with my student, I can assess those gaps and fill them, helping my students improve. All the knowledge in the world will...
Education & Certification
- George Washington University - Bachelors, Physics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- SHSAT
- +32 subjects
Zachary: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...to flex my intellectual side and share my passion for learning with the next generation. In college, I studied Cognitive Science, not so much as a fallback career, but because I am fascinated by the subject. I succeeded in getting into Northwestern without the aid of any academic tutors or test prep classes. As such, I am confident in my standardized test-taking abilities, and happy to share the strategies I used for the ACT, SAT...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Theatre, Cognitive Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- CAHSEE
- ACT
- +60 subjects
Sarah: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...the challenges begin to slip away and what was previously frustrating and incomprehensible to the students becomes a subject that they now enjoy learning about and studying. I believe I am a good tutor and teacher because I am patient, encouraging, and have good communication and classroom management skills. I do not get frustrated if my students do not understand something right away; instead, I look for an alternative way to explain whatever is confusing...
Education & Certification
- Harvard University - Bachelors, Classics
- Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, University of London - Masters, Advanced Theatre Practice
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SHSAT
- ISEE
- +56 subjects
Jeff: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...are shown problems or the study material in a different way that is more relatable or easier to understand. My teaching philosophy is to try to be as engaging of an instructor as possible--from my own education, I've noticed that teachers who are indifferent, "boring," or too removed from their students often have difficulty motivating their students to try harder and continue learning the material. While I am able to tutor a variety of subjects,...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Current Undergrad, Neuroscience/Philosophy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TACHS
- ISEE
- ACT
- +37 subjects
Stephanie: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...need. I believe that the time that a student spends with their tutor is precious and needs to be utilized most efficiently if the student is going to succeed. After reviewing the student's previous work and/or test scores, together, we set up a curriculum that works to strengthen his or her weaknesses whether that be reading comprehension, grammar skills, algebra, test taking tips, time management, etc. During our sessions together, we will review the problems...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Bachelor in Arts, Neuroscience & Behavior
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- Advanced Placement
- +99 subjects
Ashton: New York SSAT test prep instructor
...mathematics from the University of Rochester, and am currently pursuing a master's degree in cybersecurity at Rutgers University. I have experience tutoring math at the middle school and high school levels, particularly algebra and related topics. In tutoring I believe the most important thing is that the student understand *why* something is the case, rather than just *that* it is. This is crucial to forming a strong foundation on which further understanding can be built.
Education & Certification
- University of Rochester - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics and Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACCUPLACER
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Art
- +99 subjects