Score improvement depends on your starting point and study intensity, but most students see meaningful gains with focused preparation—typically 50-150 points over 2-3 months of consistent work. The key is identifying your specific weak areas (whether that's reading comprehension, quantitative reasoning, or verbal skills) and targeting those through targeted practice and strategy refinement.

Students often struggle most with the reading comprehension and verbal reasoning sections, which require both speed and critical thinking. The math section can be tricky because it covers a wide range of topics, and pacing is crucial—many students run out of time. A tutor can help you develop section-specific strategies, like how to approach dense reading passages efficiently and which math problems to prioritize.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to identify your strengths and areas for improvement across all sections. Varsity Tutors connects you with a tutor who will review your results, discuss your goals, and create a personalized study plan tailored to your timeline and specific needs—whether you're aiming for a particular score or targeting specific private schools in Houston.

Practice tests are essential—they help you understand the test format, build stamina for the full exam, and identify patterns in your mistakes. Most students benefit from taking 3-5 full practice tests spaced throughout their preparation, with tutoring sessions focused on reviewing errors and refining strategy. This approach mimics real test conditions and builds confidence before test day.

Test anxiety is common, and it often stems from feeling unprepared or uncertain about timing. Working with a tutor helps build genuine confidence through repeated practice with real test formats and timed sections. Your tutor can also teach you breathing techniques, time-management strategies, and how to approach difficult questions without panic—skills that reduce anxiety and improve performance on test day.

Most students benefit from 8-12 weeks of focused preparation, though this varies based on your starting level and target score. If you're applying to multiple Houston private schools with similar deadlines, starting earlier gives you more flexibility for practice tests and refinement. A tutor can help you create a realistic timeline based on your current skills and application deadlines.

The writing section requires you to write a creative essay under timed conditions—typically 25 minutes. The key is practicing essay structure, brainstorming quickly, and writing clearly under pressure. A tutor can provide sample prompts, help you develop a reliable essay framework, and give feedback on your practice essays so you feel confident tackling any prompt on test day.