The Otis-Lennon School Ability Test, or OLSAT, is an exam given at all grade levels, to assess a student's knowledge of verbal, nonverbal, and quantitative abilities. This test is used by school districts to ensure that students are in the correct academic placements and that they are being challenged when necessary. It is also a way for educators to determine if a student should be placed in a gifted and talented program or on a more rigorous schedule. An OLSAT prep course can be an enjoyable way for students to prepare for the test and to seek deeper understanding in a variety of topics. Parents can help their students to prepare for the OLSAT test by contacting Varsity Tutors. We can connect you with tutors who understand what your student may be expected to know and those tutors will provide personalized, one-on-one OLSAT courses.
An OLSAT class for a third grader would look different than the OLSAT prep course for an older student, because they are tested on different materials, and a tutor would create a program of study that included different strategies to review topics and prepare for the exam.
There are verbal and nonverbal sections in the test, and students in different grades may see certain categories of questions that students in other grades might not. This information is important, because it can help a tutor to design an OLSAT course of study for your student that highlights those sections for their corresponding grade levels. The table below explains what sections are included in the OLSAT 8 exam and which grades see the specific sections:
| OLSAT 8 Exam Section | Grade Range |
| Verbal Sections | |
| Verbal Comprehension | K-12 |
| Verbal Reasoning | K-12 |
| Nonverbal | |
| Pictorial Reasoning | K-2 |
| Figural Reasoning | 3-12 |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 3-12 |
For students in grades 9-12, the OLSAT exam looks different than those in K-2 or 3-12. Subsections include information that is more complex, like arithmetic reasoning, verbal analogies, and a pattern matrix. That difference will mean that OLSAT prep courses for high-school aged students may include different styles of instruction, maybe lecture and quizzes, while younger students might use more flashcards and more visual study aids. An OLSAT course can be personalized to help your student get the absolute most from their time.
The table below outlines some of the exam subsections that a high school student could expect to see when they take the test, and an OLSAT prep class could include sessions on a variety of these topics, to help a pupil feel more confident come test day.
OLSAT 8 Level G (Grades 9-12) Exam Subsections
- Antonyms
- Sentence Completion
- Sentence Arrangement
- Arithmetic Reasoning
- Logical Selection
- Word/Letter Matrix
- Verbal Analogies
- Verbal Classification
- Inference
- Figural Analogies
- Pattern Matrix
- Figural Series
- Number Series
- Number Inference
- Number Matrix
An OLSAT prep course doesn't have to look like traditional OLSAT prep classes designed for groups. This is because a tutor works with your student one-on-one and can speed up their work, or slow it down, if they notice that your student is more or less familiar with subjects as they move through the topics in the OLSAT class together.
Don't hesitate to reach out to Varsity Tutors to set up tutoring and OLSAT prep classes with a tutor who spends one on one time with your student, to help them prepare for a test that can help them move into an academic schedule that makes them feel challenged and supported at the same time.
Oliver: OLSAT course instructor
My name is Oliver. I'm a current student at Northwestern University and standardized test tutor. I've been tutoring for the past 3 years and have helped many students score well on the SAT, ACT, PSAT, and similar exams. I am also fluent in French.
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Engineer, Industrial Engineering
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- PSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- +22 subjects
Heather: OLSAT course instructor
...flexible, as I feel it is necessary to cater towards a students unique learning style and needs. I believe confidence and self-efficacy play pivotal roles in a students acquisition of knowledge and ability to learn new concepts. I believe it is crucial to provide encouragement, reinforcement, and support to help students realize their unique gifts and potential. In my free time, I enjoy reading, hiking, spending time with my family, and painting.... I feel one's teaching style should be flexible enough to cater to each individual student's needs. I believe that teachers are influential in a student's academic development, and should take their positions seriously.
Education & Certification
- University of Nevada- Las Vegas - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Nevada-Las Vegas - Masters, Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- ECAA
- PSAT
- MAP
- +177 subjects
Diptesh: OLSAT course instructor
...specialize in mathematics and science tutoring as well as standardized exam preparation. In the past, I have helped students achieve significant improvements and success on the SAT, SHSAT, Regents and other exams! I truly believe education is a mutual learning and teaching opportunity and enjoy helping my students achieve a thorough understanding (those "Aha!" moments) and appreciation of whatever they choose to study! In the future, I seek to pursue clinical and pedagogical medicine and...
Education & Certification
- New York University - Bachelor of Science, Global Public Health & Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- ISEE
- Advanced Placement
- HSPT
- +88 subjects
Madison: OLSAT course instructor
I graduated from USC with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in Web Technologies and Applications. I currently work as a software developer in McMinnville, Oregon. I am tutoring the LSAT, and my strongest section is Logic Games. Through my own preparation for taking the LSAT, I have learned a lot about strategy and analyzing the different question types to improve one's score. I am excited to pass on this knowledge...
Education & Certification
- University of Southern California - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- ACT Writing
- +13 subjects
Danyel: OLSAT course instructor
I am a graduate of South Carolina State University. I received my Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education (K-8th grade- all middle school subjects). I hold a certification in general education, advance (gifted) learners, and ESL. My research identity is in effective learning strategies for at-risk learners with deficits in reading comprehension, math, and non-verbal learners. I enjoy planning goals and objectives to align with the learner's needs and providing data-driven instructions.
Education & Certification
- South Carolina State University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary School Teaching
- Cambridge College - Masters in Education, Special Education
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- Learning Differences
- Phonics
- Middle School Math
- +29 subjects
Tessa: OLSAT course instructor
As an experienced tutor, my passion lies in helping students unlock their full potential and achieve academic success. With a commitment to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment, I strive to tailor my approach to meet the unique needs and learning styles of each student. Through personalized instruction, I aim to instill confidence, critical thinking skills, and a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom.
Education & Certification
- St Petersburg College - Bachelor of Science, Education
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- EQAO
- TEAS
- WPPSI
- +265 subjects
Tiffany: OLSAT course instructor
Greetings/BienVenue/BienVenidos! My name is Mrs. Harris and I have embraced the wonderful world of teaching for over 20+ years having worked in a variety of educational settings, including for homeschooled families. I truly enjoy helping young people become the best versions of themselves, as I guide them through their learning goals! As a curious learner myself, I love helping young people discover facts and new ideas in learning. Here, we'll explore together!
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- FCAT 2.0
- Reading
- Elementary School Math
- +22 subjects
Straley: OLSAT course instructor
...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, and listening to music.
Education & Certification
- Johns Hopkins University - Bachelor of Science, Public Health
- Johns Hopkins University - Master of Science, International Health
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- CAHSEE
- Eleven Plus Exam
- TACHS
- +304 subjects
Education & Certification
- University of Houston-Downtown - Bachelor in Arts, Humanities
- University of Houston-Clear Lake - Master of Arts, General Literature
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- STAAR EOC
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +43 subjects
Caroline: OLSAT course instructor
...student's unique needs, making even the most challenging subjects approachable and engaging. I pride myself on creating a supportive, interactive environment where students feel empowered to ask questions, embrace challenges, and celebrate their progress. Beyond academic success, I focus on fostering critical thinking and lifelong learning skills, equipping students for future endeavors. Whether you're aiming to ace a test, master a new concept, or grow as a learner, I'm here to guide you every step...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Dallas - Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- Eleven Plus Non-Verbal Reasoning
- GATE/ TAG
- EQAO
- +1415 subjects
Elly: OLSAT course instructor
As a dedicated tutor with 7 years of experience, I specialize in helping students excel in subjects such as math, science, computer science, and English. I hold a master's degree in education and a background in computer science, which allows me to create personalized, engaging learning experiences. My goal is to empower students by building confidence and improving academic performance. Whether you need help mastering challenging concepts or preparing for exams, I am committed to...
Education & Certification
- University of Iowa - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- NNAT
- SCAT Exam
- CogAT
- +387 subjects
Samantha: OLSAT course instructor
...to Eastern Kentucky University and earned my Bachelor's in the Science of Psychology. My free time is spent researching to increase my knowledge base. I feel like nobody is ever finished learning and that everybody can learn something from everyone. My children even teach me new information daily. There are no mistakes, only learning from experiences. There's no such thing as a bad student, only bad teachers. Teachers need to understand how each individual student...
Education & Certification
- Eastern Kentucky University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- HSPT
- SHSAT
- Eleven Plus Non-Verbal Reasoning
- +389 subjects
James: OLSAT course instructor
...be the motto of my alma mater, Illinois State University. I earned my Bachelor's in English and taught for a few years before returning for a Master's in Education. Although I taught students at the secondary level for a long time, I wasn't always a teacher. I was also a writer for newspapers and syndicated magazines. One of my treasured opportunities included collaborating with a mystery novelist to promote one of her books back in...
Education & Certification
- Illinois State University - Master of Arts, Education
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- GED
- ASVAB
- CAHSEE
- +325 subjects
Gabriella: OLSAT course instructor
...not make some of the same mistakes I did. My teaching philosophy centers on flexibility and catering each lesson to the students I am teaching. I have experience with both learning and teaching on Zoom and know how difficult it can be to maintain focus, so I am willing to use a variety of academic resources to make sure I am meeting every individual student's needs. I have experience working with kids from ages 3-17...
Education & Certification
- New York University - Bachelor in Arts, Spanish
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- UK A Level
- SSAT
- Spanish
- +29 subjects
Heather: OLSAT course instructor
...they have just learned(something new), and become more confident in themselves". Affirmation and praise and ensuring all students come to understand and believe they are "Highly Intelligent" in every way possible is important. I am blessed to possess many of the skills needed and required to be a great teacher, many that were developed through my own personal, as well as, various work and volunteer experiences. While teaching at Universities, public, private formative, and secondary...
Education & Certification
- Armstrong Atlantic State University - Bachelor in Arts, History
- Murray State University - Current Grad Student, Public Administration
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- PSAT
- ISEE
- GED
- +443 subjects
Katherine: OLSAT course instructor
...to write well. In addition to writing, I'm also qualified to tutor test prep, particularly ACT, SAT, and PSAT. In test prep sessions, I like to begin with one or more diagnostic tests and then create a plan for the remainder of our time together. It's always my goal to make the best use of your time, so I encourage students to tell me what they'd like to work on. This not only ensures that...
Education & Certification
- University of Tulsa - Bachelor in Arts, Language Arts Teacher Education
- Fordham University - Master of Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- MAP
- REGENTS
- ISAT
- +112 subjects
Rishi: OLSAT course instructor
...from the vibrant tech hubs of Buffalo, New York, to the bustling streets of Tokyo, Japan, enriching me with diverse experiences that enhance my teaching approach. In addition, I'm gearing up to launch a startup in Tokyo next year, and I'm happy to share insights about this exciting venture should you be interested. My primary aim is to provide high-quality tutoring that ensures each lesson is not only engaging but also enriching. Looking forward to...
Education & Certification
- Texas A & M University-College Station - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- SAT
- CogAT
- CSAP/ TCAP
- +129 subjects
Miles: OLSAT course instructor
...of education. One of the most valuable things I have come to realize though is not only the value of the things I have learned and knowing what to learn, but the importance of learning *how* to learn and why this idea of learning is extremely beneficial, largely due to opening a seemingly infinite window of opportunity. My tutoring philosophy is centered around the "how, not what, to learn" idea and the premise that each...
Education & Certification
- University of Alabama at Birmingham - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
- University of Georgia School of Law - Professional (JD, MD, DMD, etc), N/A - Withdrew in second year to pursue career change
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- ACT
- PSAT
- SAT
- +22 subjects
Mercy: OLSAT course instructor
...to each student's unique learning style, ensuring they gain both confidence and mastery in their studies. Beyond academics, I strive to create a supportive and engaging learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and exploring new ideas. Whether it's preparing for exams, tackling challenging assignments, or building foundational skills, I am committed to guiding students every step of the way. My goal is not just to help students improve their grades but to inspire...
Education & Certification
- Texas Southern University - Master of Science, Computer Science
- The Texas A&M University System Office - Bachelor of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
- Washington & Lee University - Bachelor of Engineering, Electrical Engineering
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- TEAS
- REGENTS
- PAX - Nursing Pre-admission Examination
- +1409 subjects
Bin Zhao: OLSAT course instructor
...When I immigrated to the US, I became interested in Japanese culture where there was Japanese television on Fridays. When those programming licensing ended, I turned to the internet. In the second semester in college, I took the opportunity to enroll in the first Elementary Japanese class. I was able to get an A in the class. I have taken all the required classes and have become proficient in Japanese. In addition to tutoring Japanese,...
Education & Certification
- CUNY Bernard M Baruch College - Bachelor in Business Administration, Marketing
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- REGENTS
- STAAR EOC
- California Proficiency Program (CPP)
- +225 subjects