If you or your student are interested in attending a private or independent school, it may be beneficial for you to sign up for a Boston SSAT class that Varsity Tutors can set you up with. The SSAT is a standardized test that is used by many independent and private schools as a way to test the abilities of students who are interested in attending their schools. The SSAT measures reading, math, and verbal skills, all of which are considered important when it comes to predicting success in an independent or private school.
The SSAT is divided into three different levels based on age group. These include an Elementary Level, Middle Level, and Upper Level. The Elementary Level is designed for students in elementary school and is taken by students in 3rd and 4th grades. The Middle Level test is designed for students in middle school and is taken by students in 5th, 6th, and 7th grades. Finally, the Upper Level test is given to high school students and is taken by students in 8th through 11th grades.
There are a few similarities between all of the levels. One similarity is that all three levels include a Writing Sample, Quantitative Section, Reading Section, and Verbal Section. Additionally, students are not allowed to use a calculator on the Quantitative Section for any of the three levels. Finally, the Writing section is never graded, but it is sent to any school that your student applies to.
One major difference between the different levels concerns how the levels are scored. This makes a difference because it influences how students should approach the exam. When taking the Elementary Level test, students should guess if they aren't completely sure about a question because they won't be penalized for guessing incorrectly. However, in the Middle and Upper Level tests, this isn't a sound strategy because your student will lose points if they guess incorrectly. For each question answered incorrectly, students lose one-quarter of a point. As such, it makes more sense for your student to not answer the questions if they're unsure because they won't lose points for leaving it blank.
What can a Boston SSAT class help my student review?
There are many different subject areas that a Boston SSAT class could help your student review. Each of the three SSAT levels contain the same sections. However, there are differences in the content on the test and the number of total questions. The Elementary Level test contains 89 questions while the Middle and Upper Levels contain 167 questions.
The Middle and Upper Levels of the SSAT both contain a Writing Sample section, which involves writing an essay where they have to make a choice between two different prompts. Your student will have 25 minutes to complete this section on either level. One difference between the Writing Sample on the Upper and Middle Levels is that the Middle Level allows you to pick between two creative prompts while the Upper Level allows you to choose between creative and traditional essay prompts.
In terms of the Quantitative Section, both the Middle and Upper Levels cover math-related topics. They specifically look at geometry, algebra, and arithmetic and both levels contain 50 total questions.
The Reading Sections are focused on topics related to English. Both levels are geared towards reading comprehension and your student will have 40 minutes to finish this section.
Finally, the Verbal Section on the Upper and Middle Levels contain 60 questions and your student will have 30 minutes to complete it. Both levels focus on analogies and synonyms, with 30 questions being focused on analogies and the other 30 covering synonyms.
The Elementary Level also contains a Quantitative Section, but it is only 30 questions and your student will have 30 minutes to finish it. This section looks at probability, measurement, and spatial sense.
The Verbal Section of the Elementary Level also contains 30 questions and your student will have 30 minutes to finish this section. This section covers English, and it involves vocabulary, analogies, and synonyms. The Reading Section contains 28 questions and your student will have 30 minutes to finish it. This section is focused on reading comprehension.
Finally, the Writing Sample section asks Elementary Level students to write a story based on a picture.
How can a Boston SSAT course help my student prepare?
There are a wide range of ways in which a Boston SSAT course can help your student prepare for the exam. The SSAT includes a lot of information across a variety of different subject areas. As such, it can be helpful for your student's instructor to narrow down some of the material that may show up on the exam so it doesn't feel so overwhelming.
An online SSAT class is designed to mimic a regular class. Thus, your student will have an instructor who leads the class and will attend with fellow SSAT students. It is useful to have an instructor who can help your student review topics such as math, reading, and social studies. It is possible that your student may be skilled in some areas and not as skilled in others. As such, it can be helpful to work through a class where they can get a refresher on the topics they're more familiar with along with a thorough review of the topics they might be less familiar with.
It can also be useful to work with other students because this allows for the possibility of participating in group activities and group discussions. This can be beneficial for some students because it breaks up the time spent listening to their instructor and keeps them engaged in the material.
Furthermore, one of the major benefits of signing up for an SSAT class through Varsity Tutors is that the class takes place online. This means that you don't have to worry about driving your student so their class because they can simply take the class at your house.
How can I find a Boston SSAT prep course?
Finding a Boston SSAT prep course can be as easy as contacting Varsity Tutors either online or over the phone. When you sign your student up for a Boston SSAT class, you can choose between either a two-week or a four-week session based on your preference. Call today and get your student the SSAT resources they deserve.

Kaley: Boston SSAT course instructor
...and a tutor and in these roles I look for ways to make learning fun and rewarding. I especially love teaching reading and writing and I have taught or tutored these subjects to students ranging from kindergarten through adults. I also have experience tutoring test prep subjects and focus both on the content material and test taking skills. My passion is psychology and I have been able to use my graduate training in human development...
Education & Certification
- Brown University - Bachelors, Education and Public Policy
- Harvard Graduate School of Education - Masters, Human Development and Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Literature
- ISEE
- Elementary Math
- +35 subjects

Julia: Boston SSAT course instructor
I am a college student looking to help fellow students who are in middle school through high school get to the next stages of their lives. School can get rough, and having someone there to help with any particular subjects or go over and review topics is helpful, and I want to be a part of that process.
Education & Certification
- Northeastern University - Current Undergrad Student, International Relations
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Math
- Music
- Pre-Algebra
- +17 subjects

Aneri : Boston SSAT course instructor
...I have more than 5 years of tutoring experience and experience tutoring elementary students all the way up to college students. Currently I am a sophomore at Cornell University studying neuroscience as my major and math as my minor. Even at college I have continued tutoring. I am on the E-board for our tutoring club. I also lead a study section for college students currently taking Comparative Physiology. For Varsity Tutors I tutor in the...
Education & Certification
- Cornell University - Current Undergrad, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Arithmetic
- AP Calculus AB
- High School Biology
- +66 subjects

Jing: Boston SSAT course instructor
I am deeply passionate about the field of education. I look forward to tutoring and helping individuals who are dedicated to their future. I am happy to offer advice about college applications and career counseling as well. I can't wait to meet you!
Education & Certification
- Georgetown University - Current Undergrad, Psychology & Political Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT Math
- AP Physics 1
- ACT
- +53 subjects

Christopher: Boston SSAT course instructor
...and informal settings. I've been a tutor for both Math and Spanish programs in high school and enjoyed the strides I made with students. I am willing to tutor any subject I have a background in, but am strong in mathematics, the sciences, Spanish, history, writing, and ACT prep. I enjoy teaching mathematics most due to the joy I can see in children once they master a topic and can answer even pointed questions meant...
Education & Certification
- Harvard College - Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Spanish
- IB Mathematics HL
- High School Chemistry
- +74 subjects

Olivia: Boston SSAT course instructor
...and high school math for years; worked with disabled students on improving communication and academic skills through the "Best Buddies" program; and taught English language to Russian speakers during a U.S. State Department study abroad scholarship in Moldova. Though I tutor a wide range of subjects, I am most passionate about English, Math, and Public Speaking. In my experience, preparing students for Standardized Testing is immensely satisfying (especially in the Writing and Reading sections) as...
Education & Certification
- Harvard University - Current Undergrad Student, Biomedical Sciences
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Test in Mathematics Level 1
- College Algebra
- SAT
- +44 subjects

Erika: Boston SSAT course instructor
...available to tutor middle and high school math, history and test prep. I have tutored math and history in the past and I previously taught a test prep course at a school in Hanoi, Vietnam. I have a lot of experience teaching all the need-to-know tricks to doing great on the SATS/ACTS! When I am not in school myself, I love rowing, equestrian and exploring my new city of Boston! I look forward to meeting...
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Bachelor of Science, Public Health
- Harvard University - Master of Public Policy, Public Policy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- College Level American History
- PSAT Writing Skills
- Elementary Math
- +44 subjects

Alex: Boston SSAT course instructor
...as a high school and now college student. Through my religious school, I taught students of all ages, ranging from Pre-K through 8th Grade. In high school, I helped prepare students for AP, SAT, ACT, and SAT subject tests as part of my role in the National Honor Society. I have considerable personal experience with a vast array of subjects and love sharing my knowledge and experience with others. From calculus to creative writing, I...
Education & Certification
- Cornell University - Bachelor in Arts, Statistics & Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Other
- PSAT Mathematics
- ISEE- Middle Level
- +81 subjects

Jane: Boston SSAT course instructor
...SSAT, AP Biology, AP Physics, and AP Chemistry for 2 years. I love teaching students HOW to learn, not just WHAT to learn. I always emphasize hard work - because you always get what you work for. I don't care about natural intelligence, because trying your best and being persistent is the key to learning and improvement. My favorite part of teaching is seeing the student understanding a concept for the first time.
Education & Certification
- Boston University - Bachelor of Science, Human Physiology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Algebra
- Graduate Test Prep
- SAT Mathematics
- +41 subjects

Henry: Boston SSAT course instructor
Hello! I'm eager to help you in your education. I'm a recent graduate of Harvard College looking to apply to law school. My senior thesis was written on John Dewey's ideas of education, which I deeply believe has incredible power to transform individuals and society.
Education & Certification
- Harvard College - Bachelor in Arts, History
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Mandarin Chinese
- English Grammar and Syntax
- Science
- +49 subjects

Charlotte: Boston SSAT course instructor
...people, especially young women. In the last year, I have visited 52 different towns and cities across much of Western Europe while living in France. While there, I was an English Teaching Assistant in Tours, located along the banks of the Loire river. I taught at a school of predominately underprivileged students of North African descent and was lucky enough to learn about their traditions and experiences in France. I have a real passion for...
Education & Certification
- Colgate University - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics and French
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE- Middle Level
- Trigonometry
- English
- +54 subjects

Amanda: Boston SSAT course instructor
...and find creative ways of approaching material they may have found challenging. In college, I volunteered as a Literature and English tutor in the campus tutoring center for two years. My main responsibility was reading and critiquing other students' papers. I gave feedback about content, structure, and grammar. I loved helping people find their voice and discover what they were excited to write about - I found that often students were intimidated by writing, but...
Education & Certification
- Union University - Bachelor in Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT Reading
- Geometry
- Social Studies
- +50 subjects

Grace: Boston SSAT course instructor
I love test taking and am a recent Dartmouth College graduate. I have experience with 12 AP exams, SAT (99th percentile), GRE, SAT subject tests, ACT, english, and much more. I enjoy adapting to individual students study and learning styles and making work more efficient and productive. In my spare time I run obstacle courses like Spartan Races.... I tailor individual study plans to help dedicated students reach their full potential with efficiency and accuracy.... I would ask what each student's strengths and weaknesses are, then go over a number of questions that address those concepts. I would repeat tough questions to ensure the student understood them, and provide the student some online resources they might find useful.
Education & Certification
- Dartmouth College - Bachelors, Neuroscience and Anthropology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Algebra 2
- IB Social and Cultural Anthropology HL
- Algebra 3/4
- +71 subjects

Daniel: Boston SSAT course instructor
At the core, I love learning and find it fun. In teaching, I try to convey that sense of fun to my students. I use a variety of techniques depending on my student's learning style, but I always focus on the fun of learning new things.... In a first session with a student, I would introduce the basic concepts and core questions of the subject, and determine my student's learning style in order to plan future lessons better.
Education & Certification
- Tufts University - Current Undergrad, Biomedical Engineering and Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACCUPLACER Elementary Algebra
- GED Science
- ISEE-Middle Level Verbal Reasoning
- +96 subjects

Bryn: Boston SSAT course instructor
...anthropology, psychology, history, English, and government, and spent one glorious semester studying abroad in Paris. At Skidmore I gained tutoring experience working as a peer-mentor, art history tutor, note-taker, and providing SAT prep and general homework help, as well as teaching English while studying in Paris. After Skidmore I moved to London where I earned my Master of Arts in art history at the Courtauld Institute of Art. Currently I am pursuing a doctoral degree...
Education & Certification
- Skidmore College - Bachelor in Arts, Art History
- Courtauld Institute of Art - Master of Arts, Art History
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- Public Speaking
- English Grammar and Syntax
- +49 subjects

Margaret: Boston SSAT course instructor
...my Master's in Medical Science. As a recent graduate of Princeton University, I have realized the importance of the learning process. Often times the difficulty of the material comes from the unfamiliarity of the approach to it, rather than the inherent difficulty of the material. As a tutor, I hope to help my students realize that they can master the material when they learn the best learning strategies to approaching their various assignments.
Education & Certification
- Princeton University - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Psychology
- PSAT
- English
- +44 subjects

Sean: Boston SSAT course instructor
...physics, and a math minor. I have been tutoring for more than 6 years. For 2.5 years, I taught math to Cornell Engineering undergraduates, and I looked forward to it every week! On Varsity Tutors, I tutor up to college level mathematics and physics, test prep (including AP courses, and SAT reading/writing). Explaining difficult math and science concepts in plain English is my forte. I love teaching and will be glad to help anyone become...
Education & Certification
- Cornell University - Bachelor of Science, Engineering Physics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- AP Calculus AB
- Algebra
- Geometry
- +67 subjects

Jackelyn: Boston SSAT course instructor
Hi there! I am a Boston resident who has been teaching for over 6 years, and I love working one-on-one with students. Math is my favorite subject but I am interested in tutoring for any subject ranging from Kindergarten to Algebra and Geometry.
Education & Certification
- Keene State College - Bachelors, Elementary Education and Mathematics
- American International College - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- Elementary Math
- Test Prep
- Homework Support
- +19 subjects

Bridget: Boston SSAT course instructor
...track. I am most driven by learning and I hope to attend medical school to continue learning and helping others. I am passionate about science, writing, and thinking both creatively and critically. In high school, I enjoyed tutoring in Calculus and Spanish. I would love to help inspire a love of learning in any student, and to help work through any problems you are having. I would be happy to help with any specific questions...
Education & Certification
- Middlebury College - Bachelor in Arts, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SSAT- Upper Level
- Psychology
- Inorganic Chemistry
- +88 subjects

Brenna: Boston SSAT course instructor
...in Madrid; tutoring junior high students in mathematics; assisting my many siblings with standardized test prep; and peer tutoring college students in business courses. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about English, math, public speaking, and standardized test prep. I am a firm proponent of equalizing education opportunities, as education is critical for an improved quality of life. I aim to tailor my tutoring style for each of my...
Education & Certification
- University of Southern California - Bachelor of Science, Finance and Accounting
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT Writing
- Social Studies
- PSAT
- +64 subjects