Score improvement depends on your starting point and how consistently you prepare. Most students who work with a tutor see meaningful gains—typically 50-150 points or more—when they commit to regular practice and targeted skill-building over 2-4 months. The key is identifying your specific weak areas (whether that's reading comprehension, math problem-solving, or pacing) and addressing them systematically through practice tests and focused instruction.

Students typically struggle most with the reading section, which requires strong comprehension skills and quick pacing under time pressure. The math section often trips up students who haven't mastered word problems or multi-step reasoning. Many students also underestimate the writing component—it's not just about grammar, but organizing thoughts clearly and supporting ideas with examples. A tutor can help you identify which sections are your personal challenge areas and develop targeted strategies to improve.

Most students benefit from 8-12 weeks of consistent preparation, meeting with a tutor 1-2 times per week. This timeline allows you to learn test-specific strategies, take multiple practice tests, review mistakes, and build confidence. If you're starting further out, a longer timeline (4-6 months) gives you room to strengthen foundational skills before diving into test strategy. The exact timeline depends on your starting level and target score.

Practice tests do more than measure your progress—they're essential learning tools. They help you understand the test format and question types, reveal exactly which skills need work, and build stamina for the full exam. Taking practice tests under timed conditions also trains you to manage pacing, which is a major challenge for many students. A tutor can use your practice test results to pinpoint weak areas and focus your study time where it matters most.

Test anxiety often comes from feeling unprepared or uncertain about question formats. Working with a tutor helps build genuine confidence through repeated exposure to SHSAT-style questions and proven test-taking strategies. Tutors also teach practical techniques like time management, how to skip difficult questions strategically, and how to stay calm under pressure. The more familiar you become with the test through practice, the less anxiety you'll experience on test day.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in SHSAT prep and understand the specific challenges of this test. You can work with a tutor who tailors instruction to your learning style and schedule, whether you need intensive preparation or ongoing support. Simply share your goals and timeline, and you'll be matched with a tutor experienced in helping students improve their SHSAT scores.

Your first session is about understanding where you stand and what you need. Your tutor will likely review your background, discuss your target score, and may have you take a diagnostic practice test to identify your strengths and weaknesses. This assessment helps your tutor create a personalized study plan focused on the areas where you'll see the biggest score improvements. You'll leave with a clear roadmap for your SHSAT preparation.