Are you looking for professional Chicago SSAT prep for your child in Chicago? If you are trying to get your child accepted into a specific private or independent school in the Chicago area, the school may take a look at your child's SSAT scores. This test can have an impact on whether they get accepted by the admission board or not.
The SSAT is a standardized test that is designed to measure basic skills and comprehension in reading, writing, science, and math. There are three different levels of the SSAT. The grade your child is entering will determine which level of the SSAT will be administered to them. The Elementary Level will be taken if your child is going into the fourth or fifth grade. The Middle Level will be taken if your child is going into the sixth, seventh, or eighth grade. The Upper Level will be taken by students going into any grade of high school.
What will the SSAT be like?
As mentioned, there will be three different levels of the SSAT. They are similar in nature, but there are certain differences. For example, in the Elementary Level SSAT, students will not receive any penalties for incorrect answers. Thus, it is better to guess than to leave an answer blank. On the hand, the other levels of the SSAT are a bit more tricky. On the Middle Level and the Upper Level of the SSAT, students will receive a small penalty (the deduction of a quarter of a point) for an incorrect answer, while they will get an entire point for a correct answer. On the other hand, you will not receive any penalties for questions that are left blank.
The Elementary Level of the SSAT will have a Quantitative section with 30 questions, a Verbal section with 30 questions, a Reading section with 28 questions, a Writing Sample with a single prompt, and an Experimental section with 15 to 17 questions, which will be unscored. All sections will have a time limit of half an hour, other than the Writing Sample and Experimental sections, which will last for 15 minutes.
Both the Middle Level and the Upper Level of the SSAT will have a Writing Sample with one prompt, a Quantitative 1 section with 25 questions, a Reading section with 40 questions, a Verbal section with 60 questions, a Quantitative 2 section with 25 questions, and an unscored Experimental section with 16 questions. Students will have 25 minutes for the Writing Sample, 30 minutes for the Quantitative 1 section, 40 minutes for the Reading section, 30 minutes for the Verbal section, 30 minutes for the Quantitative 2 section, and 15 minutes for the Experimental section.
Keep in mind that the Writing Sample on each level is not going to be scored. Instead, it will be sent to the school's admission board, and they will be able to make their own conclusions based on the writing style and skills that are present in the essay.
All students will be tested on basic skills such as reading comprehension, basic knowledge of math and science, verbal reasoning skills, and more.
What kind of Chicago SSAT prep can my child get?
There are two kinds of SSAT preparation that you can get for your child. Some children will benefit greatly from taking a Chicago SSAT prep course. These courses take place over the internet, and they will give your child the opportunity to study with an experienced instructor who can work with the students in the class to create a study environment in which helpful discussions take place.
Taking a Chicago SSAT prep class will give your child the opportunity to make sure that there are no holes in their knowledge. The instructor can go over all sections of the test. This way, your child will have a chance to review everything that they learned in school, which can help jog their memory and make them more likely to remember important things on the day of the test.
Many students will find that they feel more comfortable when they study with a private Chicago SSAT tutor. Some children may become shy and anxious in a group environment and may be hesitant to ask important questions for which they do not know the answer. Learning with a private instructor can help them take more risks, such as asking those questions. This can help them to understand the subject matter better.
A private educational mentor can come to understand the pace of study that works best for your child. This way, they can devise study sessions that progress at that particular pace. In addition, the private educational instructor can develop a rapport with your child. They can even introduce interesting study material and resources so that your child will start to look forward to the study sessions.
A private educational mentor can present the study materials to your child in a fun and interesting manner as well. The instructor can even give your child some test-taking advice, such as what to do if they are unsure of the answer to a question. As mentioned, this will depend on which level of the SSAT they are taking. For the Elementary Level, there will be no penalties for questions that have incorrect answers, so the tutor can advise your child to take their best guess and go back to the question if they have time in the end.
Another option is getting private mentoring for your child while enrolling them in a study course at the same time. These courses can be taken over the course of either two or four weeks.
How can I get my child started with Chicago SSAT prep?
If you are looking for professional Chicago SSAT preparation help for your child in Chicago, all you need to do is get in touch with Varsity Tutors. We can connect you with a private educational mentor who can study with your child one-one or get your child enrolled in the next SSAT class. There is a new class starting every week, so your child can get started right away.

Samantha: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...and I will be receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Legal Studies this spring. In the fall, I will begin attending law school at Northwestern Law. For many years, I tutored a wide range of students in Spanish, English literature, and writing. I have also continued to help many high school seniors with college application essays. While I tutor a variety of subjects, I am very passionate about helping students improve their...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Current Undergrad, Political Science & Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- +36 subjects

Molly: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...classroom Teacher in 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade classrooms, teaching students with a variety of needs. I can also tutor students through high school and college in History and Spanish as I hold degrees in both subjects from Columbia University. I am highly qualified to tutor Writing at all levels - from elementary to adult professional writing - as I have written two distinguished theses as part of my academic training. As a Tutor, I...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Bachelor in Arts, History
- Northwestern University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- TOEFL
- SAT
- ISAT
- +111 subjects

Rebecca: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...just for one assignment or one test, but rather that it sticks with you to build a solid foundation of knowledge and confidence that you can carry forward. My favorite subjects to tutor include English, SAT test preparation, math, and psychology. My approach to tutoring is to meet the student where they're at and go from there. I find that this way we can build a productive tutoring relationship where I can help individualize learning...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Chicago SSA - Masters, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- ACT
- ISEE
- +53 subjects

David: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...have found that students may learn in different ways and all can excel. I like to present material in an engaging and relevant manner so that we can all learn and achieve success. One-on-one tutoring is an effective technique, particularly for explaining and modeling math, and I enjoy seeing students attitudes toward school brighten when they see immediate progress in their work. As a writing tutor, I like to focus on helping students find their...
Education & Certification
- Drake University - Bachelor of Science, Education, History
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISAT
- ASPIRE
- PSAT
- +37 subjects

Prahith: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
I am a classroom teacher who has spent the last ten years tutoring/educating students with a variety of learning needs. I specialize in figuring out what specific learning strategies work for different students. I can help you go from good to great as I have consistently scored in the 99th percentile for several graduate school tests. ... It is more important that students learn how to solve problems rather than just memorizing facts or formulas. All students are smart in their own way and, teaching should be catered to how students best understand. Ultimately students should understand why what they are learning is important.
Education & Certification
- University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - Bachelors, Economics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ASVAB
- +103 subjects

Habib: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...scholarships such as Jack Kent Cooke Foundation and Horatio Alger National Scholarship and receiving awards for my academic achievement such as being named an Illinois State Scholar. I am currently a College Scholar and Neuroscience major at Vanderbilt University and on the Dean's list. I have tutored many students whether in professional setting or as simply a caring friend for the duration of the last 3 years. I effectively tutor all students from elementary school...
Education & Certification
- Vanderbilt University - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- PSAT
- +102 subjects

Ilana: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...to discover answers on their own. I am very patient and understand that sometimes all it takes to understand a difficult concept is to explain it in a few different ways. We all learn differently, so I aim to develop an individualized approach for each student in order to make the most of our time together. While I am not being a tutor, I am a musician. In addition to singing, I play the violin...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelor of Science, Cognitive Science
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- ASPIRE
- SAT Subject Tests
- +80 subjects

Katie: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...skills. I understand firsthand the importance of standardized tests as students make goals for their next level of education; I am happy to help students prepare for these exams. I enjoy students of all ages and am excited to tutor a wide range of subjects, although my first loves are math and English (especially grammar). I truly believe my sincere energy and enthusiasm can help make students excited about learning. I welcome questions and value...
Education & Certification
- University of Notre Dame - Bachelor in Arts, American Studies, Gender Studies
- University of Connecticut - Master of Arts, Higher Education and Student Affaris
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- GED
- +40 subjects

Michael: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...received an M.A. in Modern and Contemporary Literature, Culture, and Thought. I received my B.A. in English and History from Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts in 2011. Having grown up in Alabama, completed an undergraduate degree in Massachusetts, and a Master's in the U.K., I have tutored students from a broad range of backgrounds in an even broader range of subject areas. I have worked with students in subjects ranging from History and Government to...
Education & Certification
- Tufts University - Bachelor in Arts, English and History
- University of Sussex - Master of Arts, Modern and Contemporary LIterature, Culture and Thought
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- ISEE
- +37 subjects

Hannah: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
I graduated from Georgia Tech majoring in Industrial and Systems Engineering and Pre-teaching , and I just moved to Chicago to attend Chicago State University Pharmacy School. I have been tutoring a lot of students [K-12] in various subjects for more than ten years. ... Helping students to reach their goals.... I would talk about my background and share my past experience of studying. I also would ask what their goals are.... If they make mistakes, I would let students correct them first by themselves.
Education & Certification
- Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Industrial and Systems Engineering
- Chicago State University - PHD, Pharmacy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- +33 subjects

Kandice: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...and facilitator for educational and civic organizations. My teaching and tutoring philosophy is simple: bridging the gap between student passions and areas of improvement, and create lasting and powerful learning experiences. I always find relevant, hands on ways to engage students in learning, resulting in improved performance. I am tutor in a variety of subjects, but am most excited about Reading, Writing, Phonics, Elementary Math, Study Skills,and Public Speaking. In my spare time I enjoy...
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Pyschology
- University of Chicago - Master of Arts, Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- English
- Essay Editing
- +19 subjects

Katelynn: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
With over five years of experience with tutoring, I have the skills to help your child succeed in school. Students that work with me have improved grades and increased confidence in their academic abilities. I offer individualized lessons that accommodate each student's learning style. We will work together to identify specific academic goals and create a customized learning plan to achieve those goals. ... I believe every student has the ability to succeed academically. I provide dynamic and engaging instruction so learning becomes an enjoyable experience.
Education & Certification
- University of Central Florida - Bachelors, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- FCAT 2.0
- PSAT
- ACT
- +64 subjects

Sonjanita: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...Social Studies, History, Humanities, and Literature. English Language Arts is my area of specialty because I love Writing and Literature, but I also have a love for World History, the humanities and global cultures; therefore, the Social Sciences are my second favorite content area. I love traveling, creative writing, and historical research. In particular, the study of ancient civilizations of the Americas and Africa. Being privileged to study these and other cultures through personal and...
Education & Certification
- University of IL - Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, English
- National Louis University - Masters, Administration and Supervision
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ASPIRE
- ISAT
- PSAT
- +126 subjects

Nandini: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
I first realized I enjoy teaching when I became preceptor for Anatomy in undergrad. I find it to be incredibly rewarding. As I am continuing my education, tutoring is an enjoyable way for me to give back to the academic community and help other students achieve their goals! I thoroughly enjoyed learning anatomy in both undergrad and PT school, and it is definitely a strong suit of mine. I have accumulated lots of helpful learning...
Education & Certification
- University of Arizona - Bachelor of Science, Health Sciences, General
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SHSAT
- PSAT
- SAT
- +43 subjects

Shea: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...learning.??? ??? Robert John Meehan. This quote is a direct reflection of me and my mission as a teacher. Ever since I started teaching 5 years ago, I have been committed to accommodating the needs of each individual student, and instilling a lifelong love of learning in all of my students. As a very passionate, caring, nurturing, and knowledgeable teacher, I thrive on the success of my students ??? our future. As a tutor with...
Education & Certification
- Western Illinois University - Bachelors, Computer Science
- National-Louis University - Masters, Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- High School English
- Summer
- +14 subjects

Jasmine: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...and tutored high school equestrians and other world-class athletes through a private tutoring company. It is most important that students learn to self-express verbally and via writing. So, whether I am tutoring AP English Language, Modern World History, 6th Grade Language Arts, Psychology, ACT or SSAT prep, or any of the other Humanities subjects I cover, my students will develop a working vocabulary and the writing skills to demonstrate the extent of their knowledge. Effective...
Education & Certification
- The University of Chicago - Associates, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- PSAT
- FCAT 2.0
- +40 subjects

Robert: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...when I was 10 years old, and fell in love with the idea that suddenly I could communicate with a whole other community of people. Since becoming fluent in Spanish, I've continued to pursue my love of languages by studying Arabic and Mandarin Chinese in school, as well as picking up German from my Austrian family and French from my travels. I'm currently teaching myself Russian with the online learning software Duolingo. Chemistry has always...
Education & Certification
- New York University - Bachelors, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- PSAT
- SAT
- +74 subjects

Susan: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...scaffold to make the abstract more concrete. I have incorporated tactile boards, sky writing, active movement, as well as many anchoring visuals. Such student success has also come through a gradual release method that I use as a framework for my lessons. This includes modeling, guided practice, independent practice and a wrap-up closure. Working 1:1 gives me the opportunity to deeply differentiate to my students' specific needs. I have experience teaching students with dyslexia and...
Education & Certification
- Eastern Illinois University - Bachelor in Arts, Elementary Education
- Saint Xavier University - Master of Science, Teaching and Leadership
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- HSPT
- ISEE
- AIMS
- +88 subjects

Francesca: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...succeed does to young minds. Given my life experiences, I told myself that if I ever were to tutor, I would do so to assure students that everything would be okay and to work with them in a reduced-stress environment. My top three goals are to give students skills to succeed in life, to help them manage stress during this trying time in their lives, and to give them guidance for future success. My biggest...
Education & Certification
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelor of Economics, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- HSPT
- ACT
- +95 subjects

Daniel: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...of my Master’s Degree. My teaching and leadership experiences within the Learning Center have inspired me to obtain my Learning Behavior Specialist endorsement within my Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. Teaching the content through highly effective modeling is another goal I have as an educator in the classroom. By accomplishing this goal in prior experiences, students have met the targets and expectations that I designed and implemented. Working closely with colleagues in the Learning Center...
Education & Certification
- Lake Forest College - Bachelor in Arts, Education and History
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- +52 subjects