If you're a parent of a student who has the academic ability to join his or her school's talented and gifted programs, you may have heard of the Otis-Lennon School Ability Test, or OLSAT. This test is meant to measure a student's verbal, quantitative, and nonverbal knowledge and abilities. The results of these tests help teachers to ensure that a student is placed in academic courses at the appropriate levels. Varsity Tutors offers OLSAT preparation through tutoring sessions, to help students feel more confident before they take the exam.
OLSAT test prep can take many different forms and include a variety of teaching techniques that are meant to bolster a student's grasp of academic concepts. Students at all levels, from Kindergarten through 12th grade, could benefit from a Varsity Tutors OLSAT class and private one-on-one OLSAT tutoring. There are tests that students take at different points in their academic careers. The specific levels and the corresponding grade levels are outlined below.
Educators use the results of OLSAT tests to ensure that students who are bright enough for inclusion in talented and gifted programs are in classes that will challenge them appropriately. OLSAT classes and tutoring can include things like test-taking strategies so that students are able to pace themselves appropriately, in order to answer as many questions as possible. This is important because students typically have a maximum of 75 minutes to complete the OLSAT exam. According to Mercer Publishing, Levels A, B and C (grades K-2) include 60 total questions; third grade students in Level D can expect to see 64 questions. Students in Levels D-G (grades 4-12) will have 72 questions to answer. OLSAT test prep that Varsity Tutors sets up for you can be personalized to a student's knowledge level and the general topics that students can expect to see in their grade-level exam.
| OLSAT Level | Grade Range |
| Level A | Kindergarten |
| Level B | 1st Grade |
| Level C | 2nd Grade |
| Level D | 3rd Grade |
| Level E | 4th and 5th Grade |
| Level F | 6th through 8th Grade |
| Level G | 9th through 12th Grade |
Utilizing the tutoring available through an OLSAT course can help a student feel more clarity and confidence as they sit down to take the test. Even for the youngest students, the OLSAT exam may be comprised of up to 15 questions in multiple categories, like Aural Reasoning and Picture Classification. An OLSAT course can benefit students of all grade levels, and tutoring through OLSAT prep can help students to feel less stress when standardized testing begins. This specific exam is administered to kindergarten students as well as the older students, and the table below describe the things that your Kindergarten-aged child may be evaluated on.
OLSAT 8 Level A (Kindergarten) Subsections
- Following Directions
- Aural Reasoning
- Arithmetic Reasoning
- Picture Classification
- Picture Analogies
- Picture Series
- Figural Classification
- Figural analogies
- Pattern Matrix
- Figural Series
A tutor can offer support for students who are involved in an OLSAT class in a variety of ways. This may include developing a personalized guide for students so that they can focus on the academic topics they may need a little brushing up on. Tutors can also offer a refresher on the topics that they seem to have a solid grasp on, just to make sure they have retained that knowledge and can recall it when they take their test. Other techniques for OLSAT test prep, particularly for younger students, might include flashcards, practice tests, and lecture-style discussion.
Although there's not a way to know exactly what questions your students will be expected to answer on the OLSAT exam, tutors can help with OLSAT test preparation by ensuring that they focus on the content they'll see in their test.
There are many benefits to spending as much time as possible on OLSAT test prep, particularly for students in the higher levels. This is because the results of these tests can help to shape their academic paths. Varsity Tutors would love to help you help your student with OLSAT prep, no matter what level they're in. Reach out today to find out how we can help your student go after their academic goals.
Oliver: OLSAT test prep 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
- SAT
- PSAT
- ACT
- +22 subjects
Heather: OLSAT test prep instructor
...and also received a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have tutored in a wide variety of subjects, though most of my experience is with primary and secondary students. I also tutor in test prep, including ACT Reading/Writing, SAT English/Biology, and Nevada state proficiency exams. I am most passionate about teaching psychology, English/writing, reading, and elementary/middle school math. My individual teaching style is flexible, as I feel it is necessary to cater...
Education & Certification
- University of Nevada- Las Vegas - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Nevada-Las Vegas - Masters, Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- TOPS
- SAT
- PSAT
- +177 subjects
Diptesh: OLSAT test prep instructor
...teaching, tutoring, and mentoring students from grades 6-12 and college in a variety of subjects since! I 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...
Education & Certification
- New York University - Bachelor of Science, Global Public Health & Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- ISEE
- PSAT
- SSAT
- +88 subjects
Madison: OLSAT test prep instructor
...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 to...
Education & Certification
- University of Southern California - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- ACT Math
- +13 subjects
Danyel: OLSAT test prep 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
- Middle School Reading
- Middle School Reading Comprehension
- Middle School Math
- +29 subjects
Tessa: OLSAT test prep 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
- GATE/ TAG
- PAX - Nursing Pre-admission Examination
- CogAT
- +265 subjects
Tiffany: OLSAT test prep 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
- Executive Functioning
- Study Skills and Organization
- +22 subjects
Straley: OLSAT test prep instructor
...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
- FCAT 2.0
- Eleven Plus Verbal Reasoning
- PARCC
- +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
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- +43 subjects
Caroline: OLSAT test prep instructor
...suit each 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...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Dallas - Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- CELPIP
- PSAT
- FCAT 2.0
- +1415 subjects
Elly: OLSAT test prep instructor
...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 helping...
Education & Certification
- University of Iowa - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- SAT
- WISC IV
- TOEFL
- +387 subjects
Samantha: OLSAT test prep instructor
...Somerset Community College and earned an Associates in Arts and an Associates in Science. Next, I went 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...
Education & Certification
- Eastern Kentucky University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- COMPASS
- GATE/ TAG
- UK Key Stage 2 SATs
- +389 subjects
James: OLSAT test prep instructor
...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 2005.
Education & Certification
- Illinois State University - Master of Arts, Education
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- ASPIRE
- FCAT 2.0
- Eleven Plus Non-Verbal Reasoning
- +325 subjects
Gabriella: OLSAT test prep instructor
...math/science classes, given my strong academic background in these subjects (college level Biology/Chemistry/Organic Chemistry/Physics/Calculus) and Spanish given my professional fluency and AP exam success. As an upperclassman college student, I have gone through all the tough middle and high school classes. I am confident I can use my experience to demystify even the most difficult topics and simplify my lessons to make sure my students do not make some of the same mistakes I did....
Education & Certification
- New York University - Bachelor in Arts, Spanish
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- UK A Level
- SSAT
- Languages
- +29 subjects
Heather: OLSAT test prep instructor
...for her college admission into the field of electrical engineering. Found to be rewarding and fun, I love volunteering and working where I can best utilize my skills and knowledge within a professional atmosphere, such as President of Effingham Women in Business, teaching voice and piano, leading women's groups, decorating and directing events, teaching classes on manners and tea time, hosting field trips, and traveling. I consider myself to be highly organized and detail-oriented, having...
Education & Certification
- Armstrong Atlantic State University - Bachelor in Arts, History
- Murray State University - Current Grad Student, Public Administration
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- ASVAB
- COMPASS
- GED
- +443 subjects
Katherine: OLSAT test prep instructor
...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 the lesson...
Education & Certification
- University of Tulsa - Bachelor in Arts, Language Arts Teacher Education
- Fordham University - Master of Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- GED
- +112 subjects
Rishi: OLSAT test prep instructor
...can guarantee you that effective communication will be seamless during our sessions. My professional journey has taken me 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...
Education & Certification
- Texas A & M University-College Station - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- ACT
- WPPSI
- PAX - Nursing Pre-admission Examination
- +129 subjects
Miles: OLSAT test prep instructor
...materials, finding the best books, online courses, projects, exercises, and/or other materials and methods of study to tailor their learning process in order to create the most effective plan to meet their goals. I also aim to tutor students in an engaging, fun, and creative manner that ensures each student enjoys each session and will begin to look forward to our next time together and further their learning. Students should feel confident that I will...
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
- SAT
- ACT
- PSAT
- +22 subjects
Mercy: OLSAT test prep instructor
...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 a lifelong...
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
- Eleven Plus Exam
- ISASP - Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress
- MAP
- +1409 subjects
Bin Zhao: OLSAT test prep instructor
...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, I can...
Education & Certification
- CUNY Bernard M Baruch College - Bachelor in Business Administration, Marketing
Subject Expertise
- OLSAT
- PSAT
- GED
- CLEP
- +225 subjects