Score improvement depends on your starting point and effort level, but students typically see gains of 100-300 points with focused preparation. Many students identify specific weak areas—like pacing through reading comprehension or tackling word problems—and targeted tutoring addresses these gaps directly. Consistent practice combined with personalized instruction tends to yield the strongest results.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to identify your strengths and areas for improvement across all test sections. A tutor will review your goals, discuss your timeline, and create a personalized study plan focused on the sections where you need the most help. This foundation helps ensure every future session targets exactly what you need to improve.

Pacing is one of the most common challenges students face on the SSAT. Tutors teach strategic time management for each section, help you identify which question types to tackle first, and practice skipping and returning to difficult questions. Through timed practice tests and targeted drills, you'll develop the confidence and speed needed to complete each section without rushing.

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction lets you focus more time on reading comprehension while maintaining your math skills. A tutor can help you build vocabulary, improve inference skills, and practice active reading strategies specific to SSAT passages. Your study plan will be weighted toward your weaker areas while keeping your strengths sharp through regular practice.

Practice tests are essential—they help you understand the test format, identify weak areas, and build test-taking stamina. Tutors typically use full-length practice tests to diagnose problems and shorter, focused drills to target specific skills. Reviewing your practice test results with a tutor helps you understand why you missed questions and adjust your strategy moving forward.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or unsure about question formats. Working with a tutor builds confidence through repeated exposure to real test questions, mastery of strategies, and understanding exactly what to expect on test day. As you see your scores improve and feel more in control of the material, anxiety naturally decreases.

Most students benefit from 2-4 months of preparation, though this varies based on your starting level and target score. If you're aiming for a competitive private school, starting earlier gives you time to identify weak areas, build skills gradually, and take multiple practice tests. Varsity Tutors can help you create a realistic timeline based on your specific goals and current performance.