If you have been looking into CogAT courses to help your student make the most of the educational opportunities available to them, Varsity Tutors offers private CogAT classes that are well worth your time. The CogAT (Cognitive Abilities Test) is an aptitude test used for admission in the gifted programs at certain schools, to help identify a homeschooled student's academic strengths, and to help identify at-risk youth for further assessment. It assesses a test-taker's learned problem-solving and reasoning skills in three areas: verbal, quantitative, and nonverbal, all of which correlate well to academic achievement. A private CogAT class may give your student more self-confidence heading into the exam.
One of the benefits of investing in a CogAT course is access to a knowledgeable instructor who can answer any questions you have about the test. For example, many parents would like a breakdown of exactly what the Stanine scores the test uses actually mean. The chart below highlights this information:
Score Breakdown
| Stanine | % Rank | Description |
| 9 | 96-99 |
Very High |
| 8 | 89-95 | Above Average |
| 7 | 77-88 | Above Average |
| 6 | 60-76 | Average |
| 5 | 40-59 | Average |
| 4 | 23-39 | Average |
| 3 | 11-22 | Below Average |
| 2 | 4-10 | Below Average |
| 1 | 1-3 | Very Low |
One of the CogAT secrets is that it asks questions that students are unfamiliar with in order to assess their cognitive ability. In other words, how will a student react to a new type of problem? Needless to say, experience with the formatting of the exam could provide a significant advantage as students would know what to expect beforehand. For this reason, many students take practice tests during their private CogAT class.
Practice tests may also help identify your student's unique areas of opportunity, or the topics that should focus on in their CogAT prep class. The list below breaks down the types of questions students might see according to grade level:
- Grades K-2
- Oral Vocabulary
- Verbal Reasoning
- Relational Concepts
- Figure Classification
- Matrices
- Grades 3-12
- Verbal Classification
- Sentence Completion
- Verbal Analogies
- Quantitative Relations
- Number Series
- Equation building
- Figure Classification
- Figure Analogies
A CogAT prep course may be a perfect place for your student to prepare for the exact exam they plan to take. There are no time constraints in a private CogAT course, so the student in your life can spend as much time as they need to on any topic. Their instructor may also be able to cater sessions to your student's unique needs. For instance, a visual learner might use visual aids such as counting cubes to prepare for the quantitative questions on the exam, while an auditory learner could benefit more from oral repetition.
Varsity Tutors also strives to make attending our CogAT prep courses as convenient as possible. All instruction happens on our proprietary Live Learning Platform, allowing students to meet with their instructor online instead of a physical location such as a library. We also try our best to connect every student with an instructor who suits their schedule. If school, work, and extracurricular activities limit your availability on Wednesdays, we might try to refer you to a teacher who won't want to meet on Wednesdays. Test prep should fit into your life, not the other way around.
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of our CogAT prep classes or are ready to enroll, give us a call today! Expert Educational Directors are currently standing by to assist you any way they can. We look forward to working with you!
Education & Certification
- NJCU - Bachelor in Arts, Communication, General
- Saint Peters College - Masters in Business Administration, Elementary and Middle School Administration
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ISEE
- K-11th Grade Standardized Tests
- ACT
- +101 subjects
Vanessa: CogAT course instructor
...teach your child! I have a Master of Arts degree in Elementary Education from The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. I have been teaching children both in and out of the traditional classroom for over a decade. I love making teaching fun and memorable! Some of my passions in life are my children, teaching, singing, and traveling. I love seeing the joy that comes when a child learns and masters a new skill. I...
Education & Certification
- Central State University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching
- Ohio State University-Main Campus - Master of Arts Teaching, Teacher Education, Multiple Levels
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- MAP
- ACT
- GED
- +60 subjects
Lauren: CogAT course instructor
My name is Lauren and I look forward to meeting/tutoring with you! My background has 10 plus years in education and tutoring in multiple areas. I am patient, kind, caring, understanding and have a passion for helping others learn at all levels.
Education & Certification
- University of North Texas - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- The University of Texas at Arlington - Master of Arts, Urban Education and Leadership
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- CLEP
- UK A Level
- CLEP Spanish
- +50 subjects
Vishnu Priya: CogAT course instructor
...to impact the next generation positively. In my classroom, I strive to create an engaging environment where all students feel heard and valued. My approach involves interactive discussions and tailored feedback, which helps students develop their critical thinking and express their ideas confidently. I enjoy adapting to the diverse needs of each student, making learning both enjoyable and effective. Joining Varsity Tutors is a thrilling opportunity for me to continue inspiring students and fostering a...
Education & Certification
- University of New Haven - Master of Science, Business, General
- ZeroTo Mastery - Doctor of Science, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- WISC IV
- CSAP/ TCAP
- TACHS
- +725 subjects
Tayler: CogAT course instructor
...full time teaching due to big personal changes recently. I studied biology and chemistry at Oregon State University to get my Bachelors degree then went on to get a Masters of Art in Teaching from Pacific University. I then worked for two years at a local high school teaching biology, chemistry, physics, and physical science. I taught all high school ages from grade 9 through grade 12. I love working with students to understand science...
Education & Certification
- Pacific University - Masters in Education, High School Teaching
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- Grade 12 Physics
- Other
- +29 subjects
Beth Ann: CogAT course instructor
...in English Education with a minor in Library Science and earned my Masters in Elementary Administration from William Woods University. I served as an administrator of a K-12 Tutoring program for sixteen years and have tutored students in a broad range of subjects at the elementary, middle school, high school and college level. While I am passionate about English, Literature and History, I am most passionate about helping students gain the skills and confidence they...
Education & Certification
- Missouri State University-Springfield - Bachelor in Arts, English
- William Woods University - Master of Arts, Elementary School Teaching
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ACT
- UK A Level
- Test Prep
- +28 subjects
Noreen: CogAT course instructor
...Austin. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Art History and Arabic. Since graduation, I have studied Arabic intensively in Morocco for a year, and I also was an English teacher in Turkey this past year as a Fulbright Scholar. I have 3+ years of working with students of all ages and backgrounds. I tutor Arabic, Essay Writing, English, Art History, and SAT and ACT prep. I am most passionate about Art, English, History, and...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor in Arts, Art History, Criticism, and Conservation
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- UK A Level
- ACT
- Sociology
- +28 subjects
Samudra: CogAT course instructor
I graduated from Drexel University with a Bachelors in Biomedical Engineering and an MD. I've also done some masters courses in Biomed at Johns Hopkins and taught people from grade school to fellow physicians. I believe that the best knowledge comes from deep understanding of fundamental principles and building things up from there. I lean heavy towards science but am very appreciative of the humanities subjects and am happy to help students with either.
Education & Certification
- Drexel University - Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Engineering
- Drexel University - Doctor of Medicine, Premedicine
- Johns Hopkins University - Master of Engineering, Biomedical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SAT
- ACT
- UK A Level
- +108 subjects
Edith: CogAT course instructor
...a mom of four and I enjoy teaching. I have not found a grade in my years of teaching that is my favorite, as each has its own unique qualities. Being a part of helping someone in their educational journey is exciting. I have taught for 23 years as a special education coordinator and have experience with all grades elementary through high school. I have taught a variety of subjects, but mainly English Language Arts...
Education & Certification
- Long Island University-C W Post Campus - Bachelor of Science, Education
- Phoenix University - Master of Arts, Elementary and Middle School Administration
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- PRAXIS
- Middle School Math
- English Language Arts Substitute
- +30 subjects
Mercy: CogAT course instructor
...in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Programming. With a strong background in these subjects, I tailor my teaching approach to fit each student's unique learning style, ensuring they grasp concepts with clarity and confidence. My experience includes working with students at various levels, guiding them through complex topics, exam preparation, and skill development. I focus on fostering critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a genuine appreciation for learning. By creating a supportive and interactive environment, I empower...
Education & Certification
- Illinois State University - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- AIMS
- UK Key Stage 1 SATs
- WPPSI
- +1407 subjects
Education & Certification
- Liberty University - Doctor of Philosophy, Instructional Technology
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- UK A Level
- Other
- English Grammar and Syntax
- +21 subjects
Leah: CogAT course instructor
...can adapt quickly to a students situation to help them reach their goals. I am very cognizant of the extra support young students need with focusing and a structured learning environment, and have the confidence I can assist them to succeed with their work. Though I am well versed in all subjects, I favor the Language Arts and Reading subjects as an individual who finds joy in reading and writing in my leisure time. When...
Education & Certification
- Kennesaw State University - Bachelor of Science, Business, General
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- GED
- COMPASS
- ISASP - Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress
- +181 subjects
Straley: CogAT course instructor
...of Public Health and a Bachelor's degree from Johns Hopkins University. I tutored GED math for 3 years in college, so I have experience breaking down concepts for students with a variety of learning styles. I've also informally tutored other students in my math and science classes. My favorite part of working with students is seeing people's faces light up when they understand a tough concept. In my free time, I enjoy reading, walking, dancing,...
Education & Certification
- Johns Hopkins University - Bachelor of Science, Public Health
- Johns Hopkins University - Master of Science, International Health
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- ASPIRE
- Erb
- Eleven Plus English
- +304 subjects
Vanna: CogAT course instructor
...and curriculum levels. My undergraduate degree is in Accounting with an MBA in Management and used that knowledge working in corporate banking. When I had children of my own I realized how precious their development as thinkers would be. So, I began to teach them to read and math starting at a young age. As they grew up, I went back to school to learn how to be a certified teacher...and loved it!!! I keep...
Education & Certification
- PROVIDENCE College - Bachelor of Science, Accounting and Business Management
- University of Rhode Island - Master of Arts Teaching, Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision
- University of Rhode Island - Doctor of Philosophy, Education
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SCAT Exam
- REGENTS
- GED
- +94 subjects
Jessica: CogAT course instructor
...with a focus on mathematics. Since graduation, I have been teaching mathematics online. I am a certified teacher with over 10 years of experience. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about Math and Science. I am a firm proponent of education, believing it to be absolutely necessary for an improved quality of life, and I try to impart my passion for learning to all of my students. In my...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas of the Permian Basin - Bachelor of Education, Early Childhood Education
- The University of Texas at Arlington - Masters in Education, Curriculum and Instruction
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- Elementary School Math
- Programming Tools
- +43 subjects
Lien: CogAT course instructor
...math, reading, and writing. My teaching philosophy is centered around the belief that every individual has the capacity to learn and improve with patience and persistence. In addition to my teaching experience, I have also assisted students in preparing for standardized tests, including the CogAt and ISEE. As a fluent speaker of both Vietnamese and English, I am well-equipped to support students from diverse linguistic backgrounds. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to collaborate...
Education & Certification
- University of Pedagogy Ho Chi Minh City - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
- University of Houston-Clear Lake - Master of Arts, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SSAT
- ASVAB
- ACT
- +51 subjects
Allison: CogAT course instructor
I'm an experienced high school teacher, college counselor, and administrator with a passion for helping students. I've taught English, Social Sciences, introductory German, and writing for the last 28 years, and look forward to helping you succeed.
Education & Certification
- Humboldt State University - Bachelor in Arts, English
- University of California-Irvine - Associate in Arts, Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- PSAT
- CLEP
- SAT
- +50 subjects
Susan: CogAT course instructor
...BA in French, an MA in Teaching of Writing, and a PhD in Rhetoric. I have been teaching and tutoring writing for 24 years. I am an expert on grammar and mechanics. I can help you develop your thesis, your argument, your paragraphs, your introduction, and your conclusion. I am incredibly good at helping write college application essays. In addition, I can help you find quality research and integrate it professionally into your essays. I...
Education & Certification
- Washington University in St Louis - Bachelors, French
- Carnegie Mellon University - PHD, Rhetoric
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- NNAT
- ACT
- HSPT
- +242 subjects
Mia: CogAT course instructor
...honored to be teacher of the year at my school and have always received positive feedback from my students and parents. Students always had fun learning in my class and they knew I cared about them and their success. My greatest achievement is my own two children. My daughter is a high school counselor and my son works for the Peace Corps. I couldn't be more proud of their success, but I'm even more proud...
Education & Certification
- University of Florida - Masters in Education, Elementary School Teaching
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- UK A Level
- HSPT
- ACCUPLACER
- +33 subjects
San: CogAT course instructor
...progress their learning to the next level. Whether from algebra to trigonometry or biology to biochemistry, a solid footing is essential to be able to fully understand and internalize new topic matter. This solid foundation comes hand-in-hand with critical thinking skills, the ability to tackle problems outside of immediate comfort level, and the self-confidence to ask questions on new and unfamiliar concepts. For me, I find teaching a truly gratifying experience. I absolutely love seeing...
Education & Certification
- Saint Louis University-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Pharmacology
Subject Expertise
- CogAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- SAT
- +35 subjects