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.

Alex: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...in South Korea. During that time and since, I've been fortunate to tutor students of all ages and in a variety of subjects. I received a BA in International Relations and Economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and more recently completed my MBA program at the University of Southern California. My business school classmates and I took pride in offering group tutoring in subjects such as stats, economics, finance, etc., and I still feel ardently...
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelor in Arts, International Relations
- University of Southern California - Masters in Business Administration, Finance
- University of Southern California - Masters in Business Administration, Real Estate
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT
- GRE 5-Week Prep Class
- ISEE
- +88 subjects

Pete: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...I understand the gap that can form between teachers and students first hand. Combining a relational teaching style, and a strong value of education, I believe that the unique needs of every student deserve consideration and that it is the role of the tutor to find the perfect way to teach. It is my personal wish that if a student has a special need, I can fulfill it through flexibility, kindness, and optimistic determination.... The strongest teachers I have had always taught more than just the material. Their presence brightened the classroom and united students on a personal level. I hope that as a teacher, I can do the same and more.
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelors, Honors English Literature and Mathematics Minor
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- ISEE
- CLEP
- +80 subjects

Katie: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...working with students one on one before and after school. I helped with a wide variety of subjects ranging from music and writing to math and science. I've always loved helping others understand new concepts and watching a person's face light up when they finally understand a new concept. For me, it is one of the most satisfying things in the world. As the daughter of an English teacher, I have always valued education and...
Education & Certification
- Northeastern Illinois University - Current Undergrad, Music Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- English
- Zoology
- +25 subjects

Rebecca: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...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 to each person's particular learning style. Outside of academic interests,...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Chicago SSA - Masters, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- PSAT
- ISEE
- +53 subjects

Mollie: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...as a summer cello teacher to volunteering as an assistant kids' tennis coach to mentoring beginning musicians in my youth orchestra program. I greatly enjoyed each of those roles, as I found the experience of passing on my skills and, hopefully, my passions to those younger than me to be extremely rewarding. As a tutor, I look forward to helping students of all ages in a variety of subjects and test prep areas so that...
Education & Certification
- Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SHSAT
- TACHS
- HSPT
- +69 subjects

Molly: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...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 can do more than simply help students with homework. My...
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Bachelor in Arts, History
- Northwestern University - Masters, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PARCC
- MAP
- PSAT
- +111 subjects

Rebecca: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...in our personal lives; the ability to reason through a problem and understand the flow of an argument will help any student inside or outside the classroom. As a teacher, I aim to build confidence in my students and decrease anxiety about any difficulties that may arise with the subject matter. I do not believe there is any such thing as a bad question, and strive to make sure my students understand the "why" behind...
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Bachelors, Philosophy
- Illinois Institute of Technology - Masters, Applied Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- PSAT
- Advanced Placement
- GED
- +75 subjects

Samantha: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...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 reading and writing skills, and I really enjoy helping students...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Current Undergrad, Political Science & Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- ACT
- +36 subjects

Sahithi: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
"I love how my tutor really talked to me and made me feel welcomed." - Shondra "Very patient and very encouraging." - Jessica "She was really the best! Helped me a lot to my work and gives me a better understanding :)" - Unique "Sahithi is just so very sweet!" - Katie These are reviews from the kids that I've tutored in the past. One child at a time, encouraging me to better myself to better their future.
Education & Certification
- Kennesaw State University - Bachelors, Biotechnology
- Saint James School of Medicine - Current Grad Student, Doctor of Medicine
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- CLEP
- SAT
- GED
- +57 subjects

Emily: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...for learning, in any subject. I look forward to accompanying students through any challenges that stand in the way of that connection and leading students to their own version of success. I've worked across various sectors and have always maintained a love for one-on-one teaching, especially working with children and teaching languages. My experience includes living, working, and traveling abroad, and I rely on this intercultural perspective when presenting language and social studies lessons. I...
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Bachelors, 1) Spanish 2) History
- The New School - Masters, 1) International Affairs 2) Environmental Policy
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ISEE
- English Grammar and Syntax
- +42 subjects

Pam: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...of National Louis University. I received a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and have a minor in Biological Sciences. Since graduation, I have been teaching Middle School Math, Pre-Algebra and Algebra at a school in Waukegan. I have a passion for teaching, nothing I enjoy more is seeing the look on a child's face when they finally understand a new concept. My philosophy is that as an educator I must do everything, I can...
Education & Certification
- National Louis University - Bachelor in Arts, Elementary Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- HSPT
- ACT
- +28 subjects

Daniel: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...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 remains beneficial because I have been motivated to make the...
Education & Certification
- Lake Forest College - Bachelor in Arts, Education and History
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- ISEE
- +52 subjects

Jasmine: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...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 expression translates to professional success and emotional maturity no matter...
Education & Certification
- The University of Chicago - Associates, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- FCAT 2.0
- PSAT
- ACT
- +40 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
- ACT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SAT Subject Tests
- +103 subjects

Terence: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...to prepare my students for standardized tests required by the state or district. While taking classes towards my certification I worked as a one to one aide in two different school districts in Chicago's northwest suburbs. While I taught all subjects, I am most comfortable tutoring elementary language arts, reading and writing, US History and some elementary mathematics. For several recent years I was a tutor with Oakton Community College's VITA Program where ESL adults...
Education & Certification
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Communications
- Northeastern Illinois University - Master of Arts, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISAT
- ISEE
- Phonics
- +26 subjects

Sarah: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...students of all ages on various subjects. I have previously tutored students from pre-K to college age in subjects ranging from pre-reading/phonics skills, language arts, basic Spanish and study skills to high level math and college test prep. I have a bachelor's in elementary education with endorsements in early childhood and reading and a minor in general business. I have taught eight grade, fourth grade, kindergarten and pre-school. My favorite part about teaching is watching...
Education & Certification
- Drake University - Bachelors, Elementary education
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- Phonics
- +26 subjects

Meggan: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...a firm believer in the motto "It takes a village to raise a child." It is important that we work together as teachers, tutors, parents and family to ensure each child gets the best education possible. My role as a teacher and tutor is to discover each student's individual learning style and tailor the learning material and curriculum to meet the needs of that individual student so that they are able to achieve personal success.
Education & Certification
- University of Iowa - Bachelor in Arts, Communications/Art
- Quincy University - Master of Science, Educaiton
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISAT
- PARCC
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +113 subjects

Kandice: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
...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 taking road trips, reading novels, blogging, and creating boards on...
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Pyschology
- University of Chicago - Master of Arts, Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Essay Editing
- Other
- +19 subjects

Carol: Chicago SSAT test prep instructor
I enjoy teaching children and seeing them grow. I am especially good at teaching math and science to middle school students. I am also good at teaching algebra skills. I am able to tutor students from preschool through 9th grade and through 12th grade in math. I have an elementary education degree and a teaching minor in math. I am currently teaching high school honors math courses.
Education & Certification
- Valparaiso University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- ISEE
- Middle School English
- Phonics
- +20 subjects
Education & Certification
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- University of Michigan School of Dentistry - Doctor of Medical Dentistry, Predentistry
Subject Expertise
- SSAT
- SHSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- CogAT
- +67 subjects